Running is a versatile sport that accommodates a variety of preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're a solitary runner who enjoys the peace of running alone or a social athlete who thrives in a group setting, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. In this post, we'll delve into the pros and cons of training alone versus with a group to help you determine the best fit for your running routine.
Running with a group can provide numerous social and motivational benefits. It serves as a great social outlet, allowing you to meet new people and build friendships with those who share a common interest. The collective energy of a group can be highly motivating, making it easier to push through tough workouts when surrounded by others who are equally committed. Equally, if you have friends who are counting on your attendance, it can be harder to stay at home and skip a workout. Safety is another advantage; running in a group can provide security, particularly after dark. Group training is often a tool for improved performance, as friendly competition and support from fellow runners can help you push your limits.
Nevertheless, for some, there are drawbacks to group training. Coordinating schedules with a group can be challenging, as group runs typically occur at specific times that may not always align with your personal schedule. Finding a pace that suits everyone in the group can also be difficult, potentially leading to frustration for slower runners who feel pressured to keep up or for faster runners who are not adequately challenged. Additionally, group training sessions might not cater to your specific training needs or goals, as the focus is often on what benefits the majority. While some find the social aspect motivating, others might feel pressured or intimidated, particularly if they are less experienced or slower than the rest of the group.
One of the greatest advantages of training alone is the flexibility it offers. You can set your own schedule, running whenever it suits you without the need to coordinate with others. This autonomy extends to pace control as well. Running solo allows you to maintain your desired pace, which is particularly beneficial if you're focusing on specific training goals, such as interval training or recovery runs. Additionally, running alone provides a unique opportunity for introspection and mental clarity. It's a time to clear your mind, think through problems, or simply enjoy solitude. Training alone also fosters a sense of personal accountability, as you’re responsible for your progress and must stay motivated without relying on others.
However, there are downsides to consider. For those who enjoy socializing, running alone can feel isolating and less enjoyable without the camaraderie of a group. Maintaining motivation can be challenging without a running buddy or group, especially on days when you're not feeling particularly enthusiastic. Safety may be another concern; running alone can be intimidating for some. It's important to take precautions, such as letting someone know your route and expected return time. Additionally, training alone means missing out on immediate feedback and encouragement from fellow runners, which can be beneficial for improving technique and performance.
The choice between training alone and with a group ultimately depends on your personal preferences, goals, and lifestyle. Some runners find that a mix of both provides the perfect balance. Solo runs can be great for specific, goal-oriented training and mental relaxation, while group runs can offer motivation, social interaction, and safety.
If you are looking to challenge yourself and are working towards a specific goal, the first step is to ensure that you have a good training plan. There are many sources for training plans, both paid and free, and if you are already running with a group it is likely that someone you run with can recommend a program that has worked for them. Here are some of our favorite resources:
Runner's World Training Plans
Hal Higdon Training Plans
McMillan Training Plans
Once you have a plan in place, allow yourself the flexibility to adjust what days you do certain runs on. It may be that a group run fits perfectly with one of your prescribed easy runs. It may be that your weekly quality session with a group can replace one of your prescribed quality workouts. The key to adjusting your plan is to understand the purpose of each workout. You don’t want to swap out a quality workout for an easy run if it means you won’t get any elevated effort running in that week. Equally, you don’t want to do more hard runs than your plan has scheduled in a given week. Your plan should give you a good indication of how the flow of workouts should go as well - you won't have a hard workout scheduled next to a long run as your body won't have time to recover. In most cases you should separate challenging workouts with an easy run to give your body the time it needs to strengthen and repair itself. If you are in doubt, chat to your coach/running group for advice.
Whether you prefer the solitude of solo runs or the camaraderie of group training, the most important thing is to find what works best for you. Listen to your body, stay motivated, and most importantly, enjoy the run.
See you out there,
Luke
