I’m an introvert, I only enjoy running solo.
That was me when I started running until I formed a local running club, and running frequently has never felt so easy. I constantly look forward to my morning run because running with a group has made running fun.
A study by Plateau and colleagues supports this point, stating that being part of a running group increases persistence and enjoyment.
We’ll discuss more benefits in a few. Right now, let’s see where you can find a running group near you so you can enjoy running even more.
- Run Outside
While running on a treadmill or stairs is good, you will not find a running crew that way. Many runners enjoy running outside, so you must run outside to meet with them.
When you bump into a group running, don’t be afraid to ask to join them. At first, you might feel like the new kid at school, but with time, you will fit in.
2. Running Local Races
A local race is a run organized in your home area or town. Register for a few local races, as you might spot familiar faces and form a running team.
The easiest way to learn about upcoming local races is to follow running clubs, influencers, and running blogs on socials.
3. Explore the Internet and Social Media
Why stress when Google has the answers? Search “running clubs near me,” on Google and explore the results the search brings.
Do the same with your social media apps, especially Facebook and LinkedIn. You will likely find one that fits your interests.
4. Visit Running Gear Stores
Local stores specializing in selling running items are always informed about everything related to running, from active running groups to upcoming races. Examples of running stores in Nairobi are Run Beyond, Runners Point, and Gerry Active Shoes etc.
Go on Google and search for running stores in your town.
5. Create Your Running Club
Most people love the idea of running but are afraid to run alone.
Therefore, the most natural way to form a running group is to suggest running to your friends and start meeting for runs. Another newbie runner might see your running group and ask to join.
7 Benefits of Running in a Group
(a). Running in a Group Keeps You Motivated
Nothing sustains motivation better than belonging to a tribe, James Clear, Atomic Habits.
Running together gives you something to look forward to, such as the group feeling, the running conversations, or the company, which pushes you to show up on those days you don’t feel like it.
(b). Running in a Group Builds Self Confidence
The purpose of running together is to push each other past your limits which when happens increases your confidence in achieving goals you previously thought you couldn’t.
(c). Running in a Group Helps You Belong
Being around people with similar interests builds an instant connection, and you feel like you belong in the group.
(d). Running in a Group Increases Endurance
“Omg, I never thought I could ever run without stopping,” says one runner in my group one morning while pacing around to catch a breath.
Through running regularly, you build strong muscles that enable you to run without walking.
(e). Group Running is Safe
Running together provides a safety net that running solo doesn’t. For instance, you are less likely to get lost, be mugged, or feel self-conscious when running in a group.
(f). Group Running is Enjoyable
You run at a conversational pace, so you don’t get as tired as when running alone. You cheer each other on to finish the run and get to talk and laugh about stuff during a run.
(g). Running in a Group Boosts Your Running Performance
Running together improves your running pace, form, consistency, and fitness which helps you run longer or faster effortlessly.
Now I’d like to hear from you.
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