Is running alone your thing, or do you prefer to run with a group of friends/running buddies? What do you like about each, and what’s the best (or worst) experience you’ve had with either? I ask because until a couple of years ago I had a great group of friends I ran with, but life has sent us in different directions now. What’s your experience? — Terrell
1. Running with another person, it suddenly becomes a race, and you find yourself setting a pace that you're not comfortable with. No matter how much you tell yourself it's not a race, your innate competitiveness will kick in.
2. I hate hearing the sound of my own breathing while I run. There's something about hearing my own labored breaths that convinces me that I'm more tired than I actually am. That's why I love listening to music. But when I'm running with another person I feel like I can't listen to music.
I have mentioned before that my husband and I run with our local Fleet Feet training group. Through this group I have met people I otherwise would not have known and have made several good friends. That alone is worth the price of the training. When we are between training cycles many of us still get together to run at one of the area parks. I also run on my own a couple of times a week, but I do like the accountability of running with a group. It is a lot easier to skip the runs I have scheduled on my own. Even though I run with a group I am frequently running by myself as there aren't too many that run at my slower pace. That said, I still benefit from the support of the group and coaches while I am out there.
I like to go it alone, no distractions, enjoy what’s around me. Also hard to find a perfectly matched running buddy. Every Runner’s “I feel awesome today” occurs at randomn so when those days come it’s hard to be slowed by a partner. However the days where I am struggling a running buddy would be perfect to get me through it. It’s never an all in answer here, with or without is a by the day....
It's all about preference... I love to run alone. It is my time plus I don't have to wait on anyone. I have my music to listen to. And when I don't have music, I love to listen to what is around me and/or that is when I get my thoughts in order.. come up with new thoughts about something going in my life, or talk and pray to God... Morning runs are the best... it's quiet and there is a sense of calmness and serenity when I run... An added bonus is when I see a deer or fox run in front of me!!
I trained all summer alone and joined a run group after my first half. I didn't think I'd like it but they are lovely and I definitely enjoy my time with them more. However... I run better by myself. I don't know if it's the energy required to chat or trying to keep an uncomfortable pace or slow down to someone else's but I definitely perform better on my own. Now that I am training again I'm hitting most of my runs solo.
I did both when training for my New York City marathon this past November. I can say it was always better for me to run with a group. They help propel me on those long training runs. And in the marathon I found a group to finish up the last 6 miles and it helped so much. I am not sure I would have finished if not for these groups! Thanks to all who helped me along the way!
I run alone because I run/walk (i.e. Jeff Galloway training) & it's difficult to find others who also run this way. Secondly, I like the time to just get in the zone - personal meditation time!
I like them both . I run with a great group on Wednesday and run single the other days. My single runs really de stress my mind from the challenges of work and life. I feel refreshed after those. My group run on Wednesday gives me a chance to increase my running pace and enjoy the encouragement of others.
I prefer running by myself. I feel I can stick to my own pace and run as fast or as slow on that particular day as I feel. One particular time I ran with a buddy and he was a 2:30 marathoner and I had to struggle to keep up with him even though he was just running at his normal pace. I was a 4 hour marathon guy back in those days.
On the other hand when I run in an event I do enjoy the other runners and talking to them before the run starts. Once the run begins I do not speak.
I am a solitary runner because I am an introvert. I ran with a girlfriend in HS (almost 40 years ago) and thought it was okay. But I found that talking and running was not my preferred style. I like breathing too much. However, if you can do it, I think a Group would be great. I definitely think I would benefit from someone who could help me pace better. Maybe someday I’ll come out of my shell enough to try it.
I do not mind running alone but I prefer that I run with a group. This allows me to control my pace as it keeps me at a conversational pace. Second, it makes me accountable I run with several different groups of different skill sets and paces. I believe it makes me a more well rounded runner. They all run in different area's so I get a change in terrain a which as makes me a better runner. I have noticed that my time have steadily improved as I spend more time in running groups. I now dread the days that I end up running alone and try to schedule my runs around group runs.
After 30+ years in the Army, I have had enough group runs. I now run alone for several reasons: 1) I can set my own schedule; 2) I train for specific runs and have a unique program of training runs (tempo/fartlek/etc) and cross training that doesn’t work for others; 3) I need to challenge myself and group runs move at the pace of the slowest runner, which most often isn’t challenging enough; and, 4) it’s tough to find people near my age who still run. While I miss the camaraderie and the Jodie calls, running alone now best suits my needs.
I prefer running by myself. Since I tend to wing it with regards to training it's easier to do solo runs. There are two local marathon runners who train at roughly the same pace as I do. If we run into each other we often run the rest of the training run together. Good chance to talk about upcoming races and training etc. Running solo I can make changes to my workout on the fly. Also allows me to switch from morning to afternoon runs and I can change routes and distances.
I find it easier to run alone. My work schedule is hectic and all over the place. Running for me is usually when ever I can squeeze the run in. So never have to worry about delaying someone or trying to fit their schedule. I have never been in a running group, because of my schedule. I have been a police office for 22 years, so for 23 years have been on a cop schedule. Sometimes when I am dragging, I did wish I had a running partner. I am just glad i can push myself to get it done.
I ran xc and track for a small college in North Carolina in the mid 70's. I got used to running with others and enjoyed it. Though out my running life I occasionally ran with others but mostly I ran alone. I will have to say I enjoy both running alone and running in a group. Now I run alone during the week and run with friends Saturday and Sunday mornings. I have the best of both worlds.
It depends on the type of run. if it is a tempo or track work out, then having someone with me to push me is great. I do most of my weekday runs alone, but my long, slow runs are done with a group. Great opportunity to see how training is going for others in the group, have discussions on nutrition, shoes, family, recent races, etc.
I have never tried running with a group and never felt inclined to as I love to run alone. I go at my own (slow) pace and would rather not feel the guilt of having someone slavishly keeping in step with me and I not having to try too hard to go all out. I think that’s why I have never opted to go that route. No doubt running in a group has benefits to it.
For most of my running life I enjoyed the peace and solitude of running alone. That changed when I started bumping up the distances. Now I find that I really need the companionship of my small group of like-minded crazy people pushing our way through double-digit slogs. We help each other get past the misery of a tough run, we laugh deliriously at whatever seems amusing in the world around us at mile 20...and the post-run Fireballs are pretty good too! Definitely thankful for my running family.
Like you, I had a couple of girlfriends I ran with: 1 passed away, the other became ill and can’t run. I thoroughly enjoyed our time but have not looked for another group. Since then, I’ve run solo, even training for a half alone. While I don’t mind my alone time w/ my music, if you have good friends to run with, it’s a wonderful experience🤗
I am an introvert who likes people. If I run in a group, which I often do, I make it known that I quickly get to a point of "social interaction fatigue" and to not be concerned if I drop back or run ahead so that I can be by myself.
Group runs FTW. I depend on my running tribe. I CAN run alone, and I WILL run alone if I have to, but if I can find ANYONE to run with, I greatly prefer that. This, coming from a huge introvert with fairly major social anxiety issues.
I much prefer running with a group. I run with Playmakers here in Michigan, and we love to converse ! It's nice because we are building great friendships as well. Several in our group like to go to races together, and social events. It's very encouraging, and builds motivation to get out there, and stay out there :-D
I like to go alone. I’ve run with two separate running groups over the last several years with good and bad experiences. Bad....I ran with a group that on this particular day were all guys. They took a new route due to snow on the trails and ran so far and fast ahead of me that they left me behind. Luckily I knew The area enough to get back to the store on my own but the fact that they never came back for me ended that running group quickly. I tend to compare myself in a running group and that I’ve decided isn’t good for my head. Alone it is......my thoughts, my pace, my time.
Most days I prefer to have some “me time” out in the wind. I can clear my head and not have to worry about pace or distance. When I’m in a race then I like running with a team. We keep each other going and it’s more fun!
I'm an alone runner. I've found that having the flexibility to get out and run that day when I have time, works a lot better than a schedule that I may not be able to keep.
I like running with my one running pal. We are about the same pace so it works. She & I sometimes bonk on different days which helps because whoever is bonking the other one is there for encouragement. I also have a running group once a week that is just for fun where we eat & drink after. I don't mind running with a group if I know at least one person because I really dislike small talk. hahaha
Like you, I used to run in the early morning hours with a group before work. little by little my group disbanded and I was left to run alone. Now I run, wearing my bluetooth head set with either music or an audio book playing in my ear... I now don't have to count of anyone to run with me and though it isn't as much fun, it works for me...
Depends on your mood really. There are times you enjoy the company and the distraction. The biggest challenge I found is pace. Regardless how you are training, there are days that your body either feels like going slower or faster and your partner or fellow runners might not be feeling what you are feeling so one might feel a bit caught between listening to your body or running alongside others for the sake of being together. Running alone which I mostly did during the years I ran marathons and trained allowed me so much time to think and sort through my day and my future. It enabled me introspection and the ability to just think which today due to social media is a rare commodity. The balance of the two situations is ideal if you can find it.
I have enjoyed reading everyone's comments and preferences! I haven't had the opportunity to run with a group yet. I did have a running buddy for a little bit, which was nice since he was a great cheerleader but our lives have gone separate ways. Now I run/walk with my 2 year old Airedale terrier, Roman. He keeps me safe and has an awesome slow pace which I feel is good for me to train to (about a 13+ish minute mile, while my races are closer to 10ish minute miles on a flat course). We take occasional water breaks, and if we're hitting a trail he runs off leash. I run with a single headphone, but often will pause the music to enjoy the nature around me. So far our longest distance was 16 miles! Someday, if life allows, I'd like to join a running group just to see what it's like. One of the (many) reasons I enjoy racing is for the community it brings together. I'm one of the slowest in my age range (20-30) and not out to break any records. At every race I've been in I've found runners to "leap frog" with through the race and towards the end someone will join me and we will start chatting, pacing and cheering each other on the last few miles. It's so encouraging! I'm still quite a beginner at all this and feel like I have so much to learn from everyone around me (including you all!), but when I'm a "seasoned runner" that's who I want to be: someone pulling along the newbie at the end, talking with them to get their mind off of the last miles, sharing techniques and tips and running/life advice from having lived it, encouraging them in their journey to not give up.
I've always preferred running alone. My pace, my time, my music. I have tried running with someone else once at my normal pace, but they wanted to talk the entire time. Not my thing. However, I met a Galloway friend to help her get through the last 7 miles of her 20+. We did talk the whole time, but it was a totally different experience because we were walking too. Recently, my son started running. I never say no if he asks me to run with him. Our way of running "together" is running the same route, an out and back, but it's at our own paces - so naturally, he's way ahead lol. It works out because the route is down our road and in and out of several cul de sacs. So, we pass each other multiple times and check on how we're doing and if we want to keep going or head back - all with hand signals - lol. Then, we meet back and home and discuss our respective run experiences. I do tend to run faster when we are out together, even if I'm not consciously trying. Funny how that is.
I'm in a similar situation with you Terrell. I had awesome run buddies for years, however, I got relocated 4 hours away for work and have tried for the last 3 years to find a good group to run with. I always ran short distances - 6 miles or less - by myself. I use this time to get my head in the "right space" LOL. I enjoy just tuning into the run, the scenery and my music. I really enjoy running 8 or more miles with friends. It keeps my mind occupied so that I'm not thinking..I have x more miles left every mile! For me, running with friends or solo have not been without issues. On a couple of occasions while running solo, I was chased by guys who pulled over in their cars, got out and went after me. I never sprinted so fast in my life. While running with friends - since I've relocated - I've gotten frustrated because this particular group liked to run 5 miles then stop and chat for 10 minutes and then run 5 more (for example). They also run the same routes at the same pace on the same days. Shoot me now! So, now I run solo in areas where I feel safe and in the daylight. I give a route itinerary to my husband informing him of when to expect me back. Still looking for a good group to run the long run with though!!!
I like to run with a group and alone. I too am an introvert but don't have any trouble opening up with my running partners! One day a week with the group is ideal for me. Plus I always run with my dog Hans. I have had awesome groups in the past, but am sad because I don't have a group nearby right now.
Group isn't possible this time of year. I get out of work at 3:30 PM. I might be running by 4 PM after a drive & change. Sun set is at 5 PM. Daylight is the dictator.
I like to run alone, though I've never run with a group to compare. When in events, I do "find" a runner on a comparable pace, and run along there - though still solo. My belief from running solo is that it works for me as it allows me to clear my head, organize my thoughts and reset, so to speak, from that day but it also hurts me, for no one who wants to compete [former college athlete] also do not want to improve/progress and I think running solo makes that more difficult to do.
While running with others can be fun, running alone seems best for serious training. However, this probably depends on the group and the level of intensity.
i prefer my own company! i used to make excuses when friends would ask me to join them but as i’ve gotten older i no longer do that. i politely thank them and tell them i prefer to be alone and in my own head for a bit.
i may come across as standoffish but it has served me well as my running journey continues to change.
running carried me through the grief of losing both my parents and i couldn’t have done that with a group or even one person.
Much prefer to train alone but run events with friends. As a loner, I can train when I want the way I want without having to show up at a place, at a time, and hope the others show up. Much easier on my schedule. Events are more fun when doing them with a friend.
Well I prefer running alone. Why? Is simple as that went I had company they think is a competition between us. I don't like that! But I do like running with my son he is 11 years old he knows me well he even keeps the same pace as me. Went he feels like tired y just slow down for him as long he can finished the entire run I'm happy with that. I also like running with my sergeant which is my husband. I like challenge him because he is kind of lazy went it comes for long distance. But I do all that for good reasons we the 3 of us are marathoners and if wasn't for me. They probably stop running along time ago. Besides I don't have real loyal friends who can appreciate my company while running. I'm alone wolf.
I do both - run alone and group runs. I belong to a running group (Revolution Running), they have scheduled runs 3 days a week. I go to the weekday runs as I need the accountability and they set the workouts, hills, intervals etc. I’m a trail runner and so I often run my long runs alone. I enjoy it because it’s just me and the trail (and the mountain bikers 🙄) I run/walk and am a slow runner so I enjoy being alone. But I struggle to challenge myself so again I need the group runs, people that run my pace and a coach that encourages me.
I had a weekly run group where we ran 5 miles (raced 5 Miles) but never in a group formation, once a week and then enjoyed beers and pizza at a local pub. I enjoyed it b/c it helped you increase your speed during your marathons and half marathons and the comraderie w/ others was great, but I have never really run in a group.
I hate running with other people for two reasons:
1. Running with another person, it suddenly becomes a race, and you find yourself setting a pace that you're not comfortable with. No matter how much you tell yourself it's not a race, your innate competitiveness will kick in.
2. I hate hearing the sound of my own breathing while I run. There's something about hearing my own labored breaths that convinces me that I'm more tired than I actually am. That's why I love listening to music. But when I'm running with another person I feel like I can't listen to music.
I have mentioned before that my husband and I run with our local Fleet Feet training group. Through this group I have met people I otherwise would not have known and have made several good friends. That alone is worth the price of the training. When we are between training cycles many of us still get together to run at one of the area parks. I also run on my own a couple of times a week, but I do like the accountability of running with a group. It is a lot easier to skip the runs I have scheduled on my own. Even though I run with a group I am frequently running by myself as there aren't too many that run at my slower pace. That said, I still benefit from the support of the group and coaches while I am out there.
I like to go it alone, no distractions, enjoy what’s around me. Also hard to find a perfectly matched running buddy. Every Runner’s “I feel awesome today” occurs at randomn so when those days come it’s hard to be slowed by a partner. However the days where I am struggling a running buddy would be perfect to get me through it. It’s never an all in answer here, with or without is a by the day....
It's all about preference... I love to run alone. It is my time plus I don't have to wait on anyone. I have my music to listen to. And when I don't have music, I love to listen to what is around me and/or that is when I get my thoughts in order.. come up with new thoughts about something going in my life, or talk and pray to God... Morning runs are the best... it's quiet and there is a sense of calmness and serenity when I run... An added bonus is when I see a deer or fox run in front of me!!
I like running with my dog. She is always up for how ever many miles I want to run, anywhere I want to go. A great running buddy
I trained all summer alone and joined a run group after my first half. I didn't think I'd like it but they are lovely and I definitely enjoy my time with them more. However... I run better by myself. I don't know if it's the energy required to chat or trying to keep an uncomfortable pace or slow down to someone else's but I definitely perform better on my own. Now that I am training again I'm hitting most of my runs solo.
I did both when training for my New York City marathon this past November. I can say it was always better for me to run with a group. They help propel me on those long training runs. And in the marathon I found a group to finish up the last 6 miles and it helped so much. I am not sure I would have finished if not for these groups! Thanks to all who helped me along the way!
I run alone because I run/walk (i.e. Jeff Galloway training) & it's difficult to find others who also run this way. Secondly, I like the time to just get in the zone - personal meditation time!
I like them both . I run with a great group on Wednesday and run single the other days. My single runs really de stress my mind from the challenges of work and life. I feel refreshed after those. My group run on Wednesday gives me a chance to increase my running pace and enjoy the encouragement of others.
I rarely run with others mainly because running is my time to reflect, think, plan, relieve stress and feel empowered!!!
I prefer running by myself. I feel I can stick to my own pace and run as fast or as slow on that particular day as I feel. One particular time I ran with a buddy and he was a 2:30 marathoner and I had to struggle to keep up with him even though he was just running at his normal pace. I was a 4 hour marathon guy back in those days.
On the other hand when I run in an event I do enjoy the other runners and talking to them before the run starts. Once the run begins I do not speak.
I am a solitary runner because I am an introvert. I ran with a girlfriend in HS (almost 40 years ago) and thought it was okay. But I found that talking and running was not my preferred style. I like breathing too much. However, if you can do it, I think a Group would be great. I definitely think I would benefit from someone who could help me pace better. Maybe someday I’ll come out of my shell enough to try it.
I prefer running by myself. It's my time to get away from the daily responsibilities of being a caregiver, and I also do my best running by myself.
I do not mind running alone but I prefer that I run with a group. This allows me to control my pace as it keeps me at a conversational pace. Second, it makes me accountable I run with several different groups of different skill sets and paces. I believe it makes me a more well rounded runner. They all run in different area's so I get a change in terrain a which as makes me a better runner. I have noticed that my time have steadily improved as I spend more time in running groups. I now dread the days that I end up running alone and try to schedule my runs around group runs.
I prefer running alone. This allows me to pray while I run. I am too social and would lose valuable prayer time if i run in a group.
After 30+ years in the Army, I have had enough group runs. I now run alone for several reasons: 1) I can set my own schedule; 2) I train for specific runs and have a unique program of training runs (tempo/fartlek/etc) and cross training that doesn’t work for others; 3) I need to challenge myself and group runs move at the pace of the slowest runner, which most often isn’t challenging enough; and, 4) it’s tough to find people near my age who still run. While I miss the camaraderie and the Jodie calls, running alone now best suits my needs.
I prefer running by myself. Since I tend to wing it with regards to training it's easier to do solo runs. There are two local marathon runners who train at roughly the same pace as I do. If we run into each other we often run the rest of the training run together. Good chance to talk about upcoming races and training etc. Running solo I can make changes to my workout on the fly. Also allows me to switch from morning to afternoon runs and I can change routes and distances.
I find it easier to run alone. My work schedule is hectic and all over the place. Running for me is usually when ever I can squeeze the run in. So never have to worry about delaying someone or trying to fit their schedule. I have never been in a running group, because of my schedule. I have been a police office for 22 years, so for 23 years have been on a cop schedule. Sometimes when I am dragging, I did wish I had a running partner. I am just glad i can push myself to get it done.
I ran xc and track for a small college in North Carolina in the mid 70's. I got used to running with others and enjoyed it. Though out my running life I occasionally ran with others but mostly I ran alone. I will have to say I enjoy both running alone and running in a group. Now I run alone during the week and run with friends Saturday and Sunday mornings. I have the best of both worlds.
It depends on the type of run. if it is a tempo or track work out, then having someone with me to push me is great. I do most of my weekday runs alone, but my long, slow runs are done with a group. Great opportunity to see how training is going for others in the group, have discussions on nutrition, shoes, family, recent races, etc.
Terrell,
Congrats on the NYC drawing. I’m in as well. 👍😎
I have never tried running with a group and never felt inclined to as I love to run alone. I go at my own (slow) pace and would rather not feel the guilt of having someone slavishly keeping in step with me and I not having to try too hard to go all out. I think that’s why I have never opted to go that route. No doubt running in a group has benefits to it.
For most of my running life I enjoyed the peace and solitude of running alone. That changed when I started bumping up the distances. Now I find that I really need the companionship of my small group of like-minded crazy people pushing our way through double-digit slogs. We help each other get past the misery of a tough run, we laugh deliriously at whatever seems amusing in the world around us at mile 20...and the post-run Fireballs are pretty good too! Definitely thankful for my running family.
Like you, I had a couple of girlfriends I ran with: 1 passed away, the other became ill and can’t run. I thoroughly enjoyed our time but have not looked for another group. Since then, I’ve run solo, even training for a half alone. While I don’t mind my alone time w/ my music, if you have good friends to run with, it’s a wonderful experience🤗
I am an introvert who likes people. If I run in a group, which I often do, I make it known that I quickly get to a point of "social interaction fatigue" and to not be concerned if I drop back or run ahead so that I can be by myself.
Group runs FTW. I depend on my running tribe. I CAN run alone, and I WILL run alone if I have to, but if I can find ANYONE to run with, I greatly prefer that. This, coming from a huge introvert with fairly major social anxiety issues.
I much prefer running with a group. I run with Playmakers here in Michigan, and we love to converse ! It's nice because we are building great friendships as well. Several in our group like to go to races together, and social events. It's very encouraging, and builds motivation to get out there, and stay out there :-D
I like to go alone. I’ve run with two separate running groups over the last several years with good and bad experiences. Bad....I ran with a group that on this particular day were all guys. They took a new route due to snow on the trails and ran so far and fast ahead of me that they left me behind. Luckily I knew The area enough to get back to the store on my own but the fact that they never came back for me ended that running group quickly. I tend to compare myself in a running group and that I’ve decided isn’t good for my head. Alone it is......my thoughts, my pace, my time.
Most days I prefer to have some “me time” out in the wind. I can clear my head and not have to worry about pace or distance. When I’m in a race then I like running with a team. We keep each other going and it’s more fun!
I'm an alone runner. I've found that having the flexibility to get out and run that day when I have time, works a lot better than a schedule that I may not be able to keep.
I like running with my one running pal. We are about the same pace so it works. She & I sometimes bonk on different days which helps because whoever is bonking the other one is there for encouragement. I also have a running group once a week that is just for fun where we eat & drink after. I don't mind running with a group if I know at least one person because I really dislike small talk. hahaha
Like you, I used to run in the early morning hours with a group before work. little by little my group disbanded and I was left to run alone. Now I run, wearing my bluetooth head set with either music or an audio book playing in my ear... I now don't have to count of anyone to run with me and though it isn't as much fun, it works for me...
Depends on your mood really. There are times you enjoy the company and the distraction. The biggest challenge I found is pace. Regardless how you are training, there are days that your body either feels like going slower or faster and your partner or fellow runners might not be feeling what you are feeling so one might feel a bit caught between listening to your body or running alongside others for the sake of being together. Running alone which I mostly did during the years I ran marathons and trained allowed me so much time to think and sort through my day and my future. It enabled me introspection and the ability to just think which today due to social media is a rare commodity. The balance of the two situations is ideal if you can find it.
I have enjoyed reading everyone's comments and preferences! I haven't had the opportunity to run with a group yet. I did have a running buddy for a little bit, which was nice since he was a great cheerleader but our lives have gone separate ways. Now I run/walk with my 2 year old Airedale terrier, Roman. He keeps me safe and has an awesome slow pace which I feel is good for me to train to (about a 13+ish minute mile, while my races are closer to 10ish minute miles on a flat course). We take occasional water breaks, and if we're hitting a trail he runs off leash. I run with a single headphone, but often will pause the music to enjoy the nature around me. So far our longest distance was 16 miles! Someday, if life allows, I'd like to join a running group just to see what it's like. One of the (many) reasons I enjoy racing is for the community it brings together. I'm one of the slowest in my age range (20-30) and not out to break any records. At every race I've been in I've found runners to "leap frog" with through the race and towards the end someone will join me and we will start chatting, pacing and cheering each other on the last few miles. It's so encouraging! I'm still quite a beginner at all this and feel like I have so much to learn from everyone around me (including you all!), but when I'm a "seasoned runner" that's who I want to be: someone pulling along the newbie at the end, talking with them to get their mind off of the last miles, sharing techniques and tips and running/life advice from having lived it, encouraging them in their journey to not give up.
I've always preferred running alone. My pace, my time, my music. I have tried running with someone else once at my normal pace, but they wanted to talk the entire time. Not my thing. However, I met a Galloway friend to help her get through the last 7 miles of her 20+. We did talk the whole time, but it was a totally different experience because we were walking too. Recently, my son started running. I never say no if he asks me to run with him. Our way of running "together" is running the same route, an out and back, but it's at our own paces - so naturally, he's way ahead lol. It works out because the route is down our road and in and out of several cul de sacs. So, we pass each other multiple times and check on how we're doing and if we want to keep going or head back - all with hand signals - lol. Then, we meet back and home and discuss our respective run experiences. I do tend to run faster when we are out together, even if I'm not consciously trying. Funny how that is.
I'm in a similar situation with you Terrell. I had awesome run buddies for years, however, I got relocated 4 hours away for work and have tried for the last 3 years to find a good group to run with. I always ran short distances - 6 miles or less - by myself. I use this time to get my head in the "right space" LOL. I enjoy just tuning into the run, the scenery and my music. I really enjoy running 8 or more miles with friends. It keeps my mind occupied so that I'm not thinking..I have x more miles left every mile! For me, running with friends or solo have not been without issues. On a couple of occasions while running solo, I was chased by guys who pulled over in their cars, got out and went after me. I never sprinted so fast in my life. While running with friends - since I've relocated - I've gotten frustrated because this particular group liked to run 5 miles then stop and chat for 10 minutes and then run 5 more (for example). They also run the same routes at the same pace on the same days. Shoot me now! So, now I run solo in areas where I feel safe and in the daylight. I give a route itinerary to my husband informing him of when to expect me back. Still looking for a good group to run the long run with though!!!
It depends on my mood. There are times I enjoy running alone to clear my head.
I like to run with a group and alone. I too am an introvert but don't have any trouble opening up with my running partners! One day a week with the group is ideal for me. Plus I always run with my dog Hans. I have had awesome groups in the past, but am sad because I don't have a group nearby right now.
Group isn't possible this time of year. I get out of work at 3:30 PM. I might be running by 4 PM after a drive & change. Sun set is at 5 PM. Daylight is the dictator.
I like running with a group. But when our schedule conflicts, I dont mind running alone.
Solo running with podcast, started tp join tracing runs on trails and love that
I love running with group but it’s tough due to my schedule. So most of my running is solo which is ok too.
I like to run alone, though I've never run with a group to compare. When in events, I do "find" a runner on a comparable pace, and run along there - though still solo. My belief from running solo is that it works for me as it allows me to clear my head, organize my thoughts and reset, so to speak, from that day but it also hurts me, for no one who wants to compete [former college athlete] also do not want to improve/progress and I think running solo makes that more difficult to do.
While running with others can be fun, running alone seems best for serious training. However, this probably depends on the group and the level of intensity.
i prefer my own company! i used to make excuses when friends would ask me to join them but as i’ve gotten older i no longer do that. i politely thank them and tell them i prefer to be alone and in my own head for a bit.
i may come across as standoffish but it has served me well as my running journey continues to change.
running carried me through the grief of losing both my parents and i couldn’t have done that with a group or even one person.
i had to get through that by myself.
runners who run alone can also be happy runners!
Much prefer to train alone but run events with friends. As a loner, I can train when I want the way I want without having to show up at a place, at a time, and hope the others show up. Much easier on my schedule. Events are more fun when doing them with a friend.
Hi! I'm new here jijii
Well I prefer running alone. Why? Is simple as that went I had company they think is a competition between us. I don't like that! But I do like running with my son he is 11 years old he knows me well he even keeps the same pace as me. Went he feels like tired y just slow down for him as long he can finished the entire run I'm happy with that. I also like running with my sergeant which is my husband. I like challenge him because he is kind of lazy went it comes for long distance. But I do all that for good reasons we the 3 of us are marathoners and if wasn't for me. They probably stop running along time ago. Besides I don't have real loyal friends who can appreciate my company while running. I'm alone wolf.
I do both - run alone and group runs. I belong to a running group (Revolution Running), they have scheduled runs 3 days a week. I go to the weekday runs as I need the accountability and they set the workouts, hills, intervals etc. I’m a trail runner and so I often run my long runs alone. I enjoy it because it’s just me and the trail (and the mountain bikers 🙄) I run/walk and am a slow runner so I enjoy being alone. But I struggle to challenge myself so again I need the group runs, people that run my pace and a coach that encourages me.
I had a weekly run group where we ran 5 miles (raced 5 Miles) but never in a group formation, once a week and then enjoyed beers and pizza at a local pub. I enjoyed it b/c it helped you increase your speed during your marathons and half marathons and the comraderie w/ others was great, but I have never really run in a group.
F3 group of men