Running club/group experience

[sofaspud]

I met a running club for the first time this morning. They looked like super hardcore types but the organiser assured me that they were all running at different paces.

Not quite! The fittest among them zoomed off and I was the very last. I had expected that but it was still sobering. Finally I caught up to someone but had to let him surge forward as I battled a gnarly hill. So steep! The woman ahead of me back tracked a bit to show me the route and asked if I wanted to do the 5km route, the 8km route or the 10km. I joined her on the 8 km route and was miraculously able to keep up!

I must have been running faster than usual because I developed a side cramp but was very happy with my first experience of running with others.

Do you often run with others or all alone? Which do you prefer?

[Couchpotato2]

Well done. I dont often run with others and it’s really hard to try and run at your pace and keep up but it’s nice nonetheless. I might see if any local groups have resumed...

[sofaspud in reply to Couchpotato2]

It was actually the first time EVER that I ran with others. I enjoyed it and will try again. I think all the C25k training and Coach Bennett (NRC) advice came in handy - especially starting slowly. I’ll be kinder on myself next time but I was thrilled to have tried running with others and the feeling of being part of the tribe

[Couchpotato2 in reply to sofaspud]

that sounds so positive. I love Coach Bennett he is very wise!

[Tasha99 Graduate10]

Joining a club was the best thing I’ve done regarding running. I made so many friends and have done things I’d never have done on my own. I also enjoy solo running though.

[sofaspud in reply to Tasha99]

What sorts of things have you done that you wouldn’t have done alone? I’m hoping to find some friends in my group but they are waaaay above my level - these guys race trails up Swiss mountains - yikes!!

[Tasha99 Graduate10 in reply to sofaspud]

Different trail runs. Lots of races. Improved my pace massively. Done a half marathon. Done a full marathon. Try different clubs. I didn’t like my first. They were all in cliques. Yes we have people who’ve run 160 mile trail races etc but also people who do 45 minute 5k.

[nowster Graduate10]

Solo so far. I know there's a local running club somewhere as I've seen them out in their club shirts in the evenings (before lockdown).