The Power of Running Communities

When I ran my first marathon in 2015, I did all my training solo. It wasn’t wrong, but it was a bit lonely. Back then, I didn’t know many other runners, and I certainly didn’t know anyone else training for the same race as me. 

Since 2015, I have discovered, developed, and embraced many running communities around the world. The main benefits that I have witnessed personally and in others are:

1.Shared Experience

When a run goes well, it's great to share your excitement with someone else. But I think even more importantly, when they don’t go so well, there is someone there who "gets it”. Not every run in your training block is going to go to plan, for a variety of reasons. Even just seeing and experiencing other peoples highs and lows of running is reassuring. You begin to notice that it is not just you that has a “bad run”. This is a great way to use comparison syndrome to your advantage. 

2. Accountability

When the weather is not so appealing, you’re busy at work, or you just wont “feel like” getting out the door, knowing that there is a group of people waiting for you is huge! Running, like many things in life, is about stacking consistency. This is far easier to do if you have a group of like-minded people around you. 

3. Safety

Running alone can be daunting, and if you do not feel safe doing so, your HR will be elevated and it is likely that you will not really enjoy the experience. Running as a group is therefore much more desirable. This is applicable in your home town or when you are travelling. In fact, seeking running communities while you travel is usually an excellent idea; often also providing you with a new route in an unfamiliar place. 

4. Friendships

Some of my closest friends are the by-products of running clubs. There is something special about connecting with someone over a run. There is a huge opportunity to chat and catch-up, but also no awkwardness when conversation dries up and you need to focus more on the run. Embrace this opportunity. 

5. Improved Performance

Running with other people often actually helps you run better. I often see less people bail on a session or hard rep scheme if there are others around them doing the same session. Even if you are not running the exact same pace as others in the group, just knowing others are doing the same is often reassuring. You see other people push through limits and you realise you probably can too. 

Marathon training can be viewed as a bit of a beast. But it does not have to be a slog or lonely. A little bit of research on some running communities in your local area will likely go a long way!