The Benefits of Running with a Group

Whether you’re thinking about joining a club or just want justification for your next happy hour run, I’m here to tell you why logging group miles can transform your running routine. 

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If you were ever a member of a school track or cross-country team, you already know how the camaraderie (and let’s be honest, competition) can make even brutal speed workouts kinda fun. But the good news is that even if you’re well past your high school days, it’s not too late. We are lucky to be living in the heyday of running clubs; most areas of the country have at least a handful of groups within a reasonable distance. And there’s usually a little something for everyone, whether that’s a competitive group that logs weekly track workouts or low-key gatherings that are more focused on the post-run brunch. 

If you’ve been going it alone, you might be wondering if putting yourself out there and finding a group is worth it. Spoiler: Yes, it is. And I have six solid reasons to convince you.

Accountability. One of the biggest benefits of regularly running with a group is having someone who counts on you to show up. If you feel too tired or lazy to get out the door for a Saturday-long run or a 6 am speed workout, having a buddy waiting for you can make all the difference.

Shared knowledge. Asking seasoned runners for tips on gear, local races, or specialty providers like PTs and massage therapists can be an invaluable resource at any stage of running. Most runners love sharing what they know — and the conversation can really make those group miles tick by. 

Safety. Depending on where and when you run, teaming up can increase safety. Very few people enjoy heading out on a solo pre-sunrise run, but a group can make the desolate roads a little more palatable. Having some friends along for a run can also come in handy in case of an unfortunate event, such as a fall or injury. 

Healthy competition. There’s a fine line between pushing yourself too far and reaching your full potential, but as long as you respect your limits, a running group can help you run farther and faster than you would on your own. Once you see that your pals can break 30 minutes in the 5k or qualify for Boston, you’ll start believing you can do it too.

Social connection and fun. Let’s face it - with jobs, families, and busy lives, time is limited. Linking up with a group for exercise can maximize your time and distract you from any discomfort. Start a long run with someone, and I guarantee you’ll feel like old friends by the end.

If you’re ready to find some training buds, you can start by checking in with your local running store, since they often host social runs or race-training groups. Another good resource might be a local race Facebook page or a community email list like NextDoor. Or you could do what I did: introduce yourself to a similarly paced person at a local 5k and ask them when and where they run. Sure, there’s a chance it won’t work out, but that’s how I found my running BFF 10+ years ago. It’s worth a shot!