Sometimes, the hardest part of running is simply getting out the door and starting. While some runners thrive on solo runs, many find motivation in training with a group or a buddy. Running together can offer accountability, a sense of solidarity and create opportunities for connection and friendship.

Have you ever set your alarm for a morning run, only to hit snooze and tell yourself, ‘I’ll just run after work’? Would you be less likely to skip your run if you were meeting someone? Accountability is one of the biggest reasons people choose to run together. We’re much less likely to cancel our plans when we risk disappointing someone else, as the prospect of letting them down can boost our motivation.

Build a sense of unity

Training together can also foster camaraderie. As runners, we brave some of the harshest weather to stick to our training plans. When you run with a partner, you can commiserate over the challenges of weeks of relentless humidity or unrelenting winds on the levee. It’s even better if you find a friend or group training for the same event. Having someone on the same schedule for long runs or workouts can be invaluable, and you might even get to celebrate your achievements together after your race.

Build Connections

Running together is an excellent way to make friends. As fellow runners, you already have a built-in conversation starter. Chatting during your run can reveal even more common interests, potentially leading to a friendship beyond running. Runners tend to be like-minded and goal-oriented, making it easy to connect with others who share similar values.

Looking for fellow runners to meet up with?

Social media is a great place to start. The Wyoming Valley Striders host group runs at various locations throughout NEPA, which are posted on our website and Facebook. You can also join our Strava page to connect with others who share your running interests.

Follow the pages of your favorite races, like the Wyoming Valley Run, as they often host group runs you can join, even if you’re not participating in their race that year. Scranton Running and Valley Running also offer group runs and training groups advertised on social media and in their newsletters. If you’re feeling adventurous, try posting on your community Facebook page to see if anyone in your neighborhood is interested in meeting up. Or, strike up a conversation with someone you frequently see on your favorite running route; they might be looking for a running buddy too!

Experience the difference of being better together! Whether you’re sharing the highs and lows of a challenging run or celebrating a hard-earned victory, training with a partner or group can make the journey not only more enjoyable but also more rewarding.