Alone and Together – The Importance of Social Dynamics in Running

“Four hands” by Eastop

Running can be a very personal thing. Ask any runner, and chances are, they will have a preference on solo versus partnered or group runs – and for good reason. Whether it’s the meditative benefit of a solitary run, or the social aspect of a group session, there are definite positives to either scenario.

Although I am training for my 4th and 5th marathons this fall, I still consider myself a newbie runner. After a little over two years of hitting the pavement, I have yet to choose a favorite running scenario: alone, paired up, or with a group – I love it all! Running, in any and all capacities, is something that relieves my stress, keeps me active and allows me to strive toward new goals on a daily basis.

Running with pals = miles fly by!

Curious on what and how to get started on a new running style or variety? Here are the basics:

• Running alone – Running solo can be an excellent opportunity to hone in on your individual running goals (whether distance, or speed) as well as a time for quiet reflection. The miles can be supplemented by the sounds of nature or the accompaniment of music, podcasts or audiobooks (see this AT&T commercial) to keep them interesting. Solo runners may also be logging some miles indoors, either at an indoor track or home or gym treadmills, which can allow for watching television or movies – an attractive option for longer runs in the hot summer or cold winter.
• Running with a friend – Running alongside a training partner, friend or family member allows for another multitude of options: easy, conversational runs with a similarly-paced runner, faster or more challenging runs with a speedier runner, or controlled paces that may or may not include some walking with a runner that may be a little slower than you. Each of these styles of runs can find their way into your recreational running, or even longer-distance training.
• Running with a group – Gathering with other runners for group runs is another way to add variety to your running routine. Whether it’s a formal training group or a social event held by your local running store, participating in group runs can not only add a new running variety into your repertoire, but it may also open the door to new friends and colleagues.

On any given week, I make it a priority to pencil in at least two different types of running to not only improve myself as a runner, but to learn more about myself as well. Personally, lone runs give me the chance to challenge my own capabilities, while partnered runs remind me how much fun running can be!  Finally, group runs allow me to connect with like-minded individuals and share my experiences, while simultaneously participating in a recreational activity that I really enjoy. As always, your mileage may vary, but if you’re stuck in a running rut, maybe adding one of these types of runs into your schedule will reignite that spark!

What are your running preferences? What are most of your runs like? Please share in the comment section below.

Author Bio: Krissy is a running enthusiast who was bitten by the racing bug in 2011 at the Walt Disney World Half Marathon…and hasn’t looked back since! A self-proclaimed military brat, Krissy has bounced around the world her whole life and currently resides in Charlottesville, VA with her husband, Eric. Find out more about Krissy here and follow her on Twitter.