Running buddies... do you have one? I do. I have several in fact, and they are AWESOME.
I was nervous about joining a group run. First of all, I'm one of those who often experiences 'stomach' issues while running. I mean what if it 'happened' while I was out on a group run. I still have the memory of when I didn't make it and Hubby had to come pick me up. So the thoughts of pooping myself, along with pace (I didn't want to hold anyone back) had me apprehensive about joining in on any group runs. And honestly, I'm not sure how I even made it out to the first run. I would see the posts. I would almost comment that I was going to show up, but I would usually change my mind.
But I remember being in a running slump. And I remember someone posting the Saturday run. And I finally said I was going. And you know what? I found a great running group to run with. And because of them, I've met several running buddies. I'm a better runner. I'm faster. I run farther. And I'm proud to be a River Runner.
I hear people comment that they are intimidated, and they will eventually come out for a run. My advice? Show up. We all started somewhere. We all have goals. We all have faced fears. And we all have something in common - We Are Runners.
So if there is a local running group in your area, and you've toyed with the idea of joining them for a run, I say do it. It's one of the best decisions that I have made when it comes to my running.
But I remember being in a running slump. And I remember someone posting the Saturday run. And I finally said I was going. And you know what? I found a great running group to run with. And because of them, I've met several running buddies. I'm a better runner. I'm faster. I run farther. And I'm proud to be a River Runner.
I hear people comment that they are intimidated, and they will eventually come out for a run. My advice? Show up. We all started somewhere. We all have goals. We all have faced fears. And we all have something in common - We Are Runners.
So if there is a local running group in your area, and you've toyed with the idea of joining them for a run, I say do it. It's one of the best decisions that I have made when it comes to my running.
It's nice to read I'm not alone! I have IBS, and often suffer from post-run "issues". Looking forward to joining RR on a run soon...unfortunately, Thursday nights just don't work for me!
ReplyDeleteI have a hard time making the Thursday night runs also. I've only been able to make it to one. I've made it to some of the weekend runs. Look forward to meeting you on a run! :)
DeleteThat's awesome that you found a great group of running buddies! :) I typically run by myself... There is a running group here but it costs money to join and that doesn't fit into my budget...
ReplyDeleteYeah, I hear you on the $$$. We are pretty much just a bunch of runners who post runs and meet up and run. It's a wide group from from various speeds. :)
DeleteWhen I first started running, I wanted nothing to do with a group. I was terrified enough being out there running and not feeling like a runner. I'm glad that changed and I now seek out and like to run with others. Sometimes it speeds me up, sometimes it slows me down but it's all great experiences that are gained. I miss running in a group though - I did that a lot last year and it was the best. This year the vibe just isn't the same around here. I wish I could make more of the RR runs. :(
ReplyDeleteI wish you could make more of the RR runs also!
DeleteI actually started running with a group and I had highs and lows with it. For me, I tend to prefer to do my training alone but I do like having a group to connect with in terms of running support and morale. One of my best friends is a serious marathoner in the Air Force and while I wish we were able to live close together, we chat almost every day about running virtually so that helps a lot. That is great you found a group that gives you such joy!
ReplyDeleteSometimes I run faster. Sometimes I run slower. If I know that I need to hit a target pace for a run, I either run with someone who is faster than me, or I run solo. It's been good for me to get me out the door on those days that I just don't want to go! :)
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteGreat post thanks for info!
Running Buddies