Running alone vs a group - what's better? The answer may surprise you!

What do you prefer? Are you a solo runner or are you a person who needs that running buddy? While both options have their benefits, running solo and in group runs can be even more beneficial to your running program. Read below to find out why.

Benefits of Running Alone

Run at your own pace and your own intervals You’re calling the shots when you run alone. Need a few extra seconds on that break? No problem. Want to skip the break? You da boss. Running alone also gives you the opportunity to explore other types of training that a group run may not offer like; fartlek, hills, or sprints.

Choose your own route Often, group runs will already have the route planned out for you. Running alone allows you to choose your own route, whether that be through your neighborhood, at the beach, or at your local track.

Create your own routine Run when you want to. First thing in the morning (catch that sunrise), or after work in the evening (catch the sunset). It’s up to you! You don’t have to worry about waiting for running buddy or running group either.

Improve your mental strength Let’s face it. Running is hard enough as it is. Running alone is even more challenging because there is no one else there to convince you to go. Just you. So turn on that positive self-talk, hype yourself up, lace up yours kicks, queue the playlist (don’t have one? Click here for free playlists created by yours truly), and go!

Benefits of Group Runs

Healthy – both physically and mentally Joining a run group is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Even if you don’t feel like running some days, knowing there is a group of like-minded people who will make you smile and laugh as you run those kms will cheer you up.

Motivation & support The encouragement and support from other participants in your run group will keep you going when you feel like quitting. They’ll be your biggest supporters and cheerleaders!

Accountability When you know people are waiting for you and expecting you, you won’t want to let them down. You won’t just be showing up for yourself now, you’ll be showing up for them too (aww!)

Safety It’s not nice to think of, but if something bad happens there is someone else there to help you. Actually, depending on your group size, there might be a small army!

You may push yourself harder When others are around to encourage us, we often push ourselves just a little bit harder than what we might do if we were alone.

Running alone and with a group have their own benefits, but doing both will definitely keep your running routine interesting, fun, and more fulfilling. If you're interested in joining a run group, google run groups in your area. If you live in the Charlottetown area in Prince Edward Island, click here.