WANT TO GET FITTER AND FASTER? IS IT MORE BENEFICIAL TO RUN IN A GROUP TO UP YOUR GAME OR, IF YOU’RE USED TO RUNNING ON YOUR OWN, WOULD IT BE BETTER TO KEEP IT THAT WAY AND JUST WORK HARDER? CHRISTINA MACDONALDFINDS OUT

GROUP RUNS

If you’re a regular runner, you’ll know that running alone can be great for clearing your head, solving problems and enjoying precious ‘me time’ that helps with stress relief and improving mood. However, the benefits of running with others shouldn’t be underestimated. “One of the reasons many people cite as a reason for giving up running is that they find it boring,” says John Brewer, a professor of applied sports science at St Mary’s University (stmarys.ac.uk). “Running in a group can provide friendship and a chance to engage in conversation while running, reducing the boredom factor.”

That said, the benefits of group training extend well beyond this – especially for those looking to get fitter and faster. Running alone can be an isolating experience and while you can still improve if you’re willing to push yourself a bit harder, you’re less likely to have the motivation to push those boundaries on your own. “Running in a group provides motivation, and helps you to sustain a good pace when things start to get tough,” says Professor Brewer. “With others around you, it is harder to ease off, and easier to maintain a higher training intensity.”

Running with others can also mean you’re less likely to skip a training session. “We all have days when going out for a run seems like a tough prospect,” adds Professor Brewer. “Knowing there is a group of fellow runners waiting for you and going through the same experience can be a big motivational factor, even on the coldest and wettest of winter days.”