Running is an activity that can be enjoyed either alone or with others. Both solo running and group running have their unique advantages and appeals. When deciding whether to lace up and hit the road or trail alone or join a group run, considering the differences in motivation, accountability, social interaction, and freedom can help you determine which option best suits your needs and preferences.   

Motivation When You Run Solo 

Running solo requires high levels of self-motivation. Without a running partner or group counting on you to show up, you must find the drive within yourself to get out the door for every run. Creating running goals, tracking progress via a training log, and booking solo runs into your calendar like important appointments can help with motivation. Rewarding yourself after solo run accomplishments with a hot bath, favorite snack, or extra bit of leisure time can also keep you motivated to run alone. 

Accountability on Group Runs 

Running with a partner or group creates accountability that can motivate you to stick to your running routine. When other people are expecting you to show up for a run, you are much less likely to hit snooze and sleep in instead. While running, having a partner or group pace and push you helps you achieve workout targets and complete distances that you may not have done alone. Knowing that you need to keep up on group runs can get you out running more consistently than if left to your own devices. 

Social Interaction While Running Together  

One of the main appeals of group runs is the social aspect. Conversation on group runs flows naturally when pace matches, often turning to intriguing topics beyond just running. New friendships form and existing bonds deepen over shared run experiences. And the mood boost that comes from laughing and enjoying community while exercising is powerful. Solo runs certainly have their meditative merits, but the social highs of running with others are hard to replicate alone. 

Freedom When Running Solo 

With solo running, the freedom to do whatever you want is liberating. You can determine your route and pace without having to accommodate anyone else. Solo runs are a time for you and only you, free from distraction (aside from stoplights!). Whether you want to hammer up hills, take walking breaks as needed, stop to take photos, listen to your favorite podcast uninterrupted, sprint as fast as you can just because you feel like it, or whatever else your heart desires, solo runs allow you to run precisely how you want. 

Conclusion 

While solo running and group running experiences both have their merits, incorporating both into your routine can nurture your overall development as a runner. Allow each running mode to complement the other so that you reap all the motivational, social, and performance rewards this sport offers. The freedom of solo miles and the camaraderie of group runs provide the perfect pair.