A friend of mine came to my running group’s track workout last night. Now, our track workouts, thanks to a somewhat sadistic coach, are notoriously difficult, but in an encouraging, you’re going to be proud of yourself when this is over, kind of a way. The track workouts can be really hard on new runners, especially for people who haven’t been all that active in a while. Let’s just say there have been numerous times (ok, almost every time), that the warm up felt like enough of a workout in itself to me. Thank goodness for my group, because I am certain I would not push myself like that without them right beside me.
Anyhow, my friend has just started running. She has done a couple of run-walk sessions in the last week or so, but track workouts were entirely new to her. First of all, let me say she did an amazing job! Seriously, just being out there in the heat and doing her best was awesome to see! I have invited several people to come join my group for an evening, and she is the only person, besides my husband, who has actually come.
So many people want to start running, but they can’t seem to stick with it on their own and they’re too scared to join a group. It can be intimidating, feeling like a non-runner, surrounded by “real” runners. I know, I still feel that way sometimes because I’m slower than the norm and I don’t have runner’s legs in short shorts. The truth is, runners come in all shapes and sizes, slow, fast, whatever. If you’re just learning to run and are thinking of joining a running group, do it! The people in my running group are so encouraging to anyone who wants to run and I’m confident other groups are like that too.
My friend was nervous to come to the track last night, but she did it anyway. If you’re reading this, kudos to you girl! That’s exactly what it takes to get started. There are countless running groups nationwide. Find one in your area and just jump in. If you’re in the Portland-Vancouver area, check out Get Fit Live Fit. We’d love to run with you!
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Jen – You are so right! Our coach is sadistic! You should know that you keep me coming back to the group run! Thank you for all your support! It is hard to be the new runner and it is hard to be the slow runner…. but at least I’m running!