As I was driving to the group run for our running club today, I must say the thunder and lightning were scary I didn’t want to go. However, there wasn’t really an option for not going because most of the club was racing, we had a few newbies who said they were coming out for the first time, and I was the self-designated group leader.
I always say, you build it and they will come but the bottom line is that somebody has to show up to get everyone started. I know this, I believe in it and I certainly do not want to see one person get dissuaded by showing up for a group run and being the only one. It’s just not cool in my opinion.
So even though I knew we would be light on numbers today due to area races, the weather and the number of people who had texted me to bail, I was going to show up, just in case. As a result, I met a new friend, Heather. Brian was also there and snapped a quick photo of us between rain showers!
This was Heather’s first time out with the F’N Running Club and I spent a nice 4.5 miles run/walking and getting to know her. We have a lot of common friends, so we “may” have been talking about YOU! 🙂
If you have an interest in building a group run, here are a few things to consider:
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Have two group leaders, who are reliable and will show up regardless of weather.
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Group leaders should communicate with one another so if one can’t go
for whatever reason, they know for sure the other will cover the run. -
Schedule the group run for the same time & day each week.
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Don’t change your time/day because “Suzie” can’t come at that time.
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If you are a leader and decide to run mid-day and are scheduled to lead the 5pm run, better plan for the 2nd run or show up with your bike to get everyone started.
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Unless you are a specialty group or a competitive team, encourage all paces and levels of ability.
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Post group runs thru the Park District, local running store, and/or local health clubs to let area runners know when and where to show up.
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Encourage runners to bring a friend, or their kids, or whatever will help them get out the door to show up.
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Know that everyone is busy and their time is valuable so pay attention and get everyone started
pretty muchon schedule unless you know for sure that somebody is running late. -
Being a group leader doesn’t mean being a coach, just that you get everyone moving toward the trail at the appropriate time.
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Know that most people show up for a group run for FUN, stress relief and exercise so keep things upbeat and light
if possible. -
Make sure you get to know the new people so they show up next time. You get to talk to “Suzie” every week, take the opportunity to meet somebody new!
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Most importantly, HAVE FUN!!
Do you run with a group or are you a solo runner? Any tips on successful group runs?
Happy Running ** Amanda – TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com