The benefits of running in a group

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I’ve always been a lone runner, plodding the trails with only the odd sheep for company. I like the solitude, the ‘me time’ but after hearing others chat positively about groups they run in I thought it was time to give it go!

The first thing I found is that there are a host of options in terms of running groups and many are free. It seems most running shops offer once or twice weekly runs and this seemed a good place to start. I chose the Run Squad at Nick Rivett Sport in Hove.

Our first run was an ‘out and back’ along the sea front. A simple approach which means most people finish at the same time and place. I was very impressed with how it was organised, we had a good warm up, it catered for all abilities and we even had pacers. Everyone was friendly and the group leaders encouraged people to chat and get to know one another. It was as much as social event as a training session!

It’s clear from talking to fellow runners there that this type of group allows people to be part of a supportive running community. New runners can learn from experienced veterans. Many people share similar goals and similar worries and help each other find solutions. It’s also lots of fun…

“The Run Squad is Nick Rivett Sport’s free weekly running group with over 150 members. The Run Squad is collective of like minded local people with a passion for running, they meet every Wednesday to run Brighton and Hove. They are a relaxed group of all abilities and all members interact and look out for one another – they are a supportive team! They enter many major races and arrange lots of great events – all in support of their chosen charity – childrens charity Rockinghorse.” Nick Rivett

Along with the mid-week runs the Run Squad also do a longer weekend run to help preparation for the Brighton Marathon in April. Now is a good time to build a baseline mileage for a spring marathon so I joined them on a 10 miler across the Downs. I’m used to running on the Downs on my own but it was really nice to run with a group. We chatted, slipped and slided in the mud and egged each other on up the hills! Approaching your longer runs in this way also has a hidden benefit – it helps ensure the right slow, comfortable pace. Marathon legend Hal Higdon says “If you can chatter the pace doesn’t matter” – if you can talk as you run it usually means you’re at roughly the right pace for your long run.

In addition to regular runs, the Run Squad also works with local coaches, like John Feeney, to provide talks to their members on training and injury prevention. I recently did a presentation for the group with Mike Boyce – it was great to share some of our knowledge with the running community and get to know more of the runners. Not all groups do this but keep an eye out for events in your area – it’s a good way to learn more about your sport.

I’ve really enjoyed being part of the Run Squad and would certainly recommend them to fellow Brighton runners. I’m also planning to take the next step and join a running club – Arena80 AC – but that’s a whole other story! There are clearly a lot of benefits from running with a group. See if you can find one near you. This group (below) from @RunGeekUK even provide bacon sandwiches! I’d go just for that but it’s in Warrington which is a bit far from me!

If you’re part of a running group you’d like to recommend please feel free to leave details in the comments below. If you’re not part of a group give one a try, it’s a great way to meet fellow runners, learn more about the sport and develop as a runner.

If you’re in Brighton or Hove and would like to know more about Nick Rivett Sport and their Run Squad see their website or follow them on Twitter – @NickRivettSport