When I first started running, I was hesitant about running with a group. I really tried to talk myself out of it…”What if they are faster than me? What if they leave me?” I quickly realized, I didn’t have to worry about that. I knew by finding the right group, all of my fears would diminish. I have been part of a running group since the latter part of 2011. A lot of people run solo and enjoy it, including me most times, but I also like running with a group when I can. Running with a group is a great way to help you reach your goals!
One of the reasons I love Jeff Galloway is because he has brought so many runners and groups together. Today I’m sharing Jeff Galloway’s view on the Power of the Group!
THE POWER OF THE GROUP
- Great friendships
- The miles go by quicker—telling stories, sharing life experiences
- Guidance in running with the right group for you, with the appropriate run walk run strategy
- Because the group is waiting for you, you will stay motivated and get out there more often
- You’ll learn about some interesting races, places to run, fun running experiences
- On the really tough workouts and races, the group will pull you through
- Access to tools for management of nutrition, fluids, motivation, aches/pains
- The right group leadership can fine-tune the pace of each workout, avoiding injury/exhaustion
- Helping others who are struggling bestows an amazing sense of achievement
- Sharing the empowerment of finishing a long run can change your life
Most groups, like our Galloway programs allow runners to try them out for free. Together we can celebrate fitness and inspire others to improve the quality of their lives.
[Tweet “”On the really tough workouts and races, the group will pull you through.” #running #runchat”]
Here is my sole sister and 26.2 training partner, Leticia! We met through our local running group, BGR! Birmingham, and became great friends! We trained for our first full marathons together! On those 16 to 20-milers when we wanted to give up, we helped push each other through. It’s hard not to become friends training for a marathon. They get the good, the bad, and the ugly…and love you anyway! I believe that’s why Jeff made “great friendships” #1 on his list of benefits of running with a group. There’s a lot of power when two or more come together!
Do you run with a group? How has a running group benefited you?
Highlights of this year’s Galloway Training Programs:
- Discount on the Jeff Galloway 13.1 and Barb’s 5K LINK
- 50% discount of Jeff Galloway’s Running Schools and Blue MT Beach Retreats
- Discounts on Phidippides products – Jeff’s store and the original running specialty store LINK
- Discounts on ElliptiGO, my favorite way to cross train outside
- Discounts on Pacific Health Products Accelerade & Endurox
- Discounts on Cooper Complete vitaminsLink
- Galloway Alumni hat available just for those who have been a part of our team before
- Newly redesigned Galloway Training medal to celebrate completion of this year’s program
A Note From Jeff!
Visit http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training-groups/list-of-cities/ to find your closest Galloway Training Program, and ask me for more details about what I love about my Galloway group.
I hope this will encourage you to get in a group or find a partner to help you stay accountable. You can read the previous installments of my Jeff Galloway Blogger Tips here. For more wisdom from Jeff Galloway, you can find him on Facebook and Twitter!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
I’ve tried running in a group. I like it when I’m not training, but when I am I like to hit the road solo to stay focused on my goals.
Artney says
I’m the same way while I’m training.
Mar @ Mar on the Run says
I’m a solo runner primarily but do like running with friends or in a group on occasion – the social aspect can’t be beat!
Sam @ PancakeWarriors says
I usually run with my girlfriend, but haven’t done a group run yet. This sounds like a great way to prepare for a race!!
Artney says
Running with girlfriends are always fun!
Ivanna says
I really need to get a dedicated group of running friends or join a run club. I agree with all of the reasons you listed of why running in a group is great!
Artney says
It makes a difference! I don’t mind running solo, but sometimes you need that push.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running says
I’ve never committed to a group training program, but I can see how it can be beneficial, especially when it comes to accountability.
Toni says
Great post, for all the reasons listed is why I love running with groups. I will admit I am mostly a solo runner but when I found my racing team I loved training with the, too and I have made some good friends too.
Carmy says
Miles def goes by quicker in a group! It’s great when you have someone who is a better runner who slows down to pace you and chats ALL the way through. You don’t even THINK about your pacing at all.
rachel says
I like group runs when the atmosphere is casual and no pressure… but slow and steady. When I am running for time/purpose I need to be alone to do my own thing. :)
Artney says
Yes! I can’t do stuffy, “want-to-be” elite groups. I need it to be fun!
Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment says
I think anything you can do in a group and build community is a great thing to do.
Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment says
I think anything you can do in a group and build community is a great thing to do.