Running is a challenging sport. There are times when you may feel tired and stressed. Running in a group gives you company on those lonesome runs and lets you motivate each other to keep going. But did you know the benefits of running in a group can also increase your performance, help you lose weight, get stronger, improve your health, and feel better?
Mental Benefits
Running is a great hobby or sport that is both inexpensive and fun. But, like all sports, you need to find a way to keep it fun once you start getting bored of running by yourself.
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A great way to do this is to join a running group near you. Not only does running in a group provide extra accountability and motivation because your friends are counting on you coming each week, but it’s also a lot more fun.
Here are some mental benefits of running in a group.
You’ll have someone to talk with while you’re exercising.
If you’re afraid of being alone while exercising, joining a running group may be a good option for you. Running with people gives you something to talk about as well as an opportunity to make new friends.
It’s more fun when you’re exercising with others because it makes the time go faster and more enjoyable. If you think about it, working out by yourself can be quite boring sometimes — especially if there’s no one around to chat with or distract you from the pain!
You’ll get encouragement from fellow runners when needed most.
When I’m feeling down about my performance or struggling through an intense workout, I always ask myself “What would my running partner do?” She’s always been there for me when I needed her support most — whether that meant she helped me push through a tough part of my training plan or cheered me on when my motivation started to decrease.
Physical Benefits
The benefits of running in a group are endless! Running with a group is fun, and motivating and can help to improve your running performance.
Here are some of the physical benefits of running in a group:
- It’s easier to avoid injuries
- You will run faster
- You’ll burn more calories per mile
- You’ll have more motivation to stick with your training program
See my latest article here on running in cold weather.
Social Benefits
There’s something special about running in a group. When you’re out there on your own, it’s just you and the pavement (or trail, or treadmill). But when you’re running with others, there’s a sense of camaraderie and support that can push you to do things you never thought possible.
Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your 50th marathon, running with a group can help you stay motivated and on track. And if you’re new to the sport, it can be a great way to meet like-minded people and learn the ropes.
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If you’re looking for a running group in your area, check out your local running store or search online. There are also plenty of virtual running groups that you can join, no matter where you live.
FAQs
Does running in a group make you run faster?
It is a common misconception that running in a group makes you run faster.
While it may seem like you are training at a faster speed, this is typically not true. Your pace will remain the same, no matter if it is just you or if there are other people with you.
The main benefits of running in a group are that you can keep each other motivated and make sure that everyone keeps up with the group.
Does running in a group make you happier?
Rounding up a posse for a run is a great way to make sure you’re accountable for your workout.
It’s also a fun way to make friends! If you can’t find someone to run with, it’s easy enough to use social media to find an existing group that meets your needs.
Still not convinced? Here are some other benefits of running in groups:
• You’ll have someone to high-five when you finish running, which is always nice.
• There’s nothing like the feeling when all of your friends start cheering you on as they see you approaching the finish line. Or even better? When they’re also crossing it right along with you!
• Running in groups is a great way to meet new people who have similar interests and goals as yourself. If this sounds like something that would interest you, then go ahead and start looking into how many different running groups there are near where you live!
Why should you join a running group?
Running is a great way to get in shape and stay healthy, but it can be hard to find motivation. That’s where a running group comes in!
Running groups give you the support and connection you need to stay motivated and achieve your goals.
Your fellow runners will push you to keep going when you feel like giving up (and they’ll be there celebrating with you when you reach your goal).
Plus, there’s just something about running with friends that makes it more fun.
Running groups are great for making new friends who share your interests and goals. You’re going to get out of this what YOU put into it—you can make sure that’s a lot by joining a running group today!
Summary
I hope you found this article – Benefits of running in a group – helpful and interesting. To learn more on this topic see related posts below.
Claudia Faucher is a full-time fitness training expert and lifestyle blogger. She is also been a certified Les Mills BodyPump instructor for the past 5 years and a fitness instructor for over 20 years. Claudia is a personal trainer and creates fitness training programs for seniors and people of all ages. She likes to use her skills and experiences to help others on their fitness journeys.