Running alone

[Norfolk18]

I graduated from c25k a while ago and although I haven’t specifically started the 10k programme yet it’s is my intention to get started after work again when the nights get lighter. I am still managing to get out once a week for 5k at weekends with hubby as my running buddy is off her feet at the moment. I really need to pluck up the courage to go out on my own but am really nervous, don’t know what about really but I was wondering how other people felt about running alone and does anyone Have any advice to share to help me bite the bullet. I am sure I will be ok once I start but just find it hard to get out of the door. Thanks 🏃‍♀️ 📰

[lexi6 Graduate10]

Hi Norfolk, congratulations on graduating C25k. I have never run with anybody else, so can’t comment on the difference. Each of my runs are different, depending on what I’m listening too. My first runs after graduating were week 9 of C25, just so I had the security of someone telling me what to do still. I now listen to Spotify and have different playlists. I know others on here do Nike+ guided runs, some listen to podcasts, but for me my own choice of music works for me and bonus you can run at your own pace. Once you get out that door you’ll love it 👍

[cheekychipmunks Graduate10]

You’ll most probably enjoy running alone Norfolk. Apart from at parkrun, when I run solo for the most part anyway, I don’t run with anyone. Just me and my tunes. It’s lovely and hopefully you’ll think so too. 😀

[Beachcomber66 Graduate10]

To date I have always run alone. There are often plenty of other runners and walkers(with and without dogs) around in the woodland/ disused railway where I do most of my running, but I like to set my own pace and adjust according to how I feel on the day. I don't listen to music as I run either...the sights and sounds of the woods are sufficient entertainment. I always take my mobile phone in case I have an accident, but otherwise it is just me and my running watch. I am sometimes a bit nervy before a run...why I don't know, but as soon as I settle into my stride I am fine. Provided you are running in a safe area, I would just go for it. You will probably be pleasantly surprised.

[Dexy5 Graduate10]

Hello Norfolk18, my OH accompanied me on my C25K runs , so I know how you feel. But once I qualified I did parkrun on my own after the first one (he’s way faster) but I chatted to people I met along the route. When he started B210k, we’d start together and then he would run off at his own pace, so gradually I got used to running on my own. Now he has been on the IC, I have had no choice in the matter. Running is far more important to me than running with someone. I do run during the day, and have no security issues, and always have a phone with me.

So next time you go out with your hubby, start together and then run a different pace or route so that you get used to being on your own. I love taking in my surroundings and enjoying the moment and it’s far easier to do that on your own and at your own pace. Runners notice other runners too so a wave every now and then is nice. It’s like being part of a secret club.

Do let us know how you get on. 🏃‍♀️

[O505k Graduate10]

Hi Norfolk, I have always run alone except at events such as Park Run. If your nerves are security based why not select a route tell someone where you are going and set off. I think you will be fine. As others have said have your phone with you. In the busy lives we lead I find the running time great for me time.

😉

[roseabi]

I love running alone. I can go where I want, think my thoughts, go at my own pace.

But when I first started running I felt very self-conscious, and I found it helpful to run where there were lots of other people running, all shapes, sizes, and ages 😊

If you have this available it might help you feel less alone, and I'm sure if you had any problems someone would help you out, because runners are generally friendly folk! Do you have a parkrun near you, for example? Even if you don't take part you could still run among them - and actually volunteering there could help you get to know more potential running buddies.

[Joy57 Graduate10]

Like others I run alone with phone and music and enjoy the 'me time'. I understand why it might feel daunting if you haven't done it before, but try a short run in an area well known to you. You can always slow to a walk or do intervals if you feel a bit self-conscious or nervous.

[Norfolk18]

Well the sun was shining when I got home from work so I bit the bullet thanks to all of your encouraging replies, on went my trainers and off I went to the track. omg I need to work on my paceing. I went at what felt like my natural pace but I only managed 1.3 miles before I flopped, quite literally, back into the car. I felt dizzy and sick for quite a while afterwards so I know I had pushed myself way too hard. To be honest I didn’t really notice I was on my own because I was too distracted with trying not to die🤣 I tried slowing down a few times but found I kept naturally speeding back up. I think because I am so used to my usual route up hill and down instead of the flat and being with someone else every time I slowed down it felt way too slow. Any tips for paceing? I have previously tried listening to music but the ear plugs kept falling out and ended in a disastrous run. Thanks again folks, I could hear you shouting me along as I went 🏃‍♀️

[lexi6 Graduate10 in reply to Norfolk18]

Brilliant Norfolk good for you 👍I guess it will take time getting used to being on your own. I can’t advise you about pacing as I have one speed - slow, but I know what you mean about ear plugs. I decided to treat myself to wireless ear buds, which are magic, as they have never fallen out yet. Wonder if you could play some slower music tracks to slow you down. Happy running. 🙂

[Norfolk18 in reply to lexi6]

Ha so I tried again this morning, borrowed my daughters ear thingies, did my stretches etc etc but realised 400m in I had forgotten to start my Strava-gutted and then it was all down hill. I really struggled this morning, I managed to slow it down a bit but was battling against the wind and looking back now, the gremlins. I gave up after only six minutes and really couldn’t carry on. I am so disappointed. I did 3 mile last weekend and yet I couldn’t even manage a mile today, what’s that about ? I suppose I shouldn’t moan really cos I haven’t had a bad run in months but it really I see demoralising isn’t it 😩 🐌

[lexi6 Graduate10]

Oh no! The stuff we need for our runs sometimes! It feels like all my faffing beforehand takes longer than the run itself. Don’t give up call it a practise, at least you got out. Another suggestion for you. I’m doing my first online February 25 miles challenge. At the end of the month I get my first bling and a compression top. Its a great incentive to get out running. Its the Race At Your Pace website. 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🐌