There are benefits of running in the group and no matter how much you like running by yourself, there will be days during the 16 weeks of intense marathon training, where you will really need to run with someone. The group (if motivated and disciplined) forces you to push at least 20% more than you can. However, often you find it frustrating to run with people because running etiquette is not followed. It frustrates me the most when every practice run becomes a race and the person who is running with you constantly wants to keep a 200 meter distance from you.
Some steps that people need to follow are as below –
a) Discuss the distance covered and pace that needs to be followed. Follow the slowest pace when running in the group and try not to leave the slowest runner behind (atleast not for the first 5km)
b) When you want to run faster than the pack, just casually let them know that you want to do that. Its like asking permission from the rest of the group if you can smoke a cigarette
c) Every run does not have to be a hard run. And every run does not have to competition. If it is decided that the run has to be an easy one, then ensure that you run at conversational speed.
d) Do not always attempt to lead the group from the front. Take turns for every two kms or so. When you follow, don’t urge the leader to push speed. Just follow
I assume to have done a 10k last evening and coupled it with several uphills. Uphills are the key to a successful 10k and it is mandatory to include them in your training program. Step workouts also work well for me to improve my stride length and luckily I found some steps close to where I live.
More importantly, believe in the run !!
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