HOW TO JOIN A RUN GROUP

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Why the hesitation? Is there trepidation to just show up and be part of it and run? Do you think they are faster than you? That they have been racing PRs since they could tie their shoes? Do you imagine they are more socially connected than you? Is that what is so intimidating?

I felt timidity joining new run groups in NYC for the first time upon returning to running after a long hiatus. Would it feel a little bit like picking teams for dodgeball in middle school gym class all over again? Would I show up and stand alone awkwardly while others conversed and moved seamlessly into their pace groups? Would we share mutual interests beyond running? Was I out of my league and would struggle to keep up?

Thankfully, my desire to be part of something and be with others who enjoyed the run was greater than my fear. By stepping out of my small safe little world of one I became part of a community that encourages each other, cheers for all, stays by each other’s side and occasionally runs ahead in the purest and most beautiful form of competition. You can always go out on a solo run, but knowing you are connected to an incredible and diverse web of people imbues the run with joy and makes your stride a little lighter and quicker.

So, how do you join a run group?

You show up

And since there are so many options, here are a few questions to ask —

What are you looking for in a run group? Mentor? Coach? Community? What will help you show up to be your best?

What👁ThinkAboutOnMyRun

#IndividualWithinTheTribe