Weekend Running || Running Friends

 

I recently read a comment on my blog referring to runners as "make the best friends". It's true.

Meet Jennifer, the person that, for the past 19+ weeks, has met me every weekend (and during the week too) for a long run. Weeks of laughs, running in silence, new running routes, burnout, changing moods, planning our next race, talking about Chicago, lack of motivation, an abundance of motivation, a bad run or 2, injuries, fear of injuries and life in general. We had our last long run before Chicago this past weekend and it was perfect. It wasn't too hot. It didn't rain. We ended the run feeling strong.

I enjoy running by myself every now and then, but for marathon training and long runs having a friend makes all the difference in the world.

Do you prefer to run alone? Do you have a running friend that has joined you for the hours and miles of training for a race?

Comments

[Julie]

Except for my very first marathon, every big race I've done -whether running or triathlon, all training has been done in a group setting. It makes it so much more fun! So much more!!

[Sara]

I run every week with the best running group ever! I love my running friends, they have got me through some of the toughest runs ever - both on the trails and in life. I wouldn't be where I am today without them!

[Suzanne]

I normally run alone except for races and my husband and I almost always run those together. It's nice to have him by my side when I start to get a little tired or need some encouragement!

[XLMIC]

I usually run alone, but I love running with a good partner :)

[jillconyers]

I totally agree Julie!

Jill Conyers
My Blog: http://jillconyers.typepad.com/
I believe no decision should be made while running up hill. ~Nike

[jillconyers]

Hi Sara. Running friends are the best for getting you through tough times of self doubt and lack of motivation. They won't let you give up!

Jill Conyers
My Blog: http://jillconyers.typepad.com/
I believe no decision should be made while running up hill. ~Nike

[jillconyers]

I run with my husband too. Mostly trail races. He's not a big fan of street races.  We both benefit in different when we run together. And it's a little extra husband and wife time :)

Jill Conyers
My Blog: http://jillconyers.typepad.com/
I believe no decision should be made while running up hill. ~Nike

[Carrie@FamilyFitnessFood.com]

I usually run alone. But, recently I found a running buddy and I'm so happy. We only get to run once a week together, but we're going to do a half marathon in Feb together (it's her first) and I'm looking forward to being on the same training plan at that point.

I'm so excited for your race! You're going to have a lot of fun and do great!

[JMC]

Thanks for putting up with me Jill! I know there were times I did not help contribute to a positive vibe and am glad you are willing to still show up! :)

Thanks for all the miles and many more to come!

[Chad Conyers]

I usually like running alone....but if I must get those long runs in, then running with the 2 ladies above works! ;) On 2nd thought, they usually ran off and left me...alone...and made me get up way too early. So I guess even when I am running WITH someone it is alone! Seriously, if it wasn't for those 2 ladies & those god-awful early rendezvouses for long runs...I wouldn't have been as successful this past summer....thanks!

[courtney]

i usually prefer to be alone, just because getting everyone's schedules to line up is so hard. but i find i push myself harder when with others.

[Julia]

SO TRUE. marathon training is just not the same without close friends. sometimes i like to head out on a LR alone for confidence building or just for the simple fact of being alone with my thoughts. but you cannot beat how incredible it is to share those miles with a close friend either!

[Amy]

I usually run along just because my schedule doesn't fit running with others much. I do a lot of races with my husband and it's lots of fun to run with him - but he trains at the opposite time that I do! Maybe someday running with people will work more for me!