I'll admit it: joining a new running group can create a lot of anxiety and even fear. What if they all run really fast? What if I'm the oldest, youngest, heaviest, slowest, most awkward, etc? Will anybody talk to me?
Our Spring training group started Sunday with introductions from women new to the group, hugs for those we haven't seen in a few months, and lots of cheering for the ones who finished a half-marathon two weeks ago. BJ proudly wore a shirt with "13.1 miles - been there, done that" on the front. Harriet showed off her Training for More running cap, complete with the green and purple streamers we added for the half-marathon. Many of the women wore a favorite race t-shirt from one of our group races.
As we went around the circle introducing ourselves, I heard a few common themes:
- I joined the group because I miss walking/running with my friends
- I'm here to keep up my motivation
- Running/walking together is so much fun!
As we walked and ran around the path at the Manchester Rec Park for our cool-down at the end of our first session, Sonce, new to our group, told me how much fun she was already having. "I only joined to support my friends, and thought I'd never come here on my own. But everyone is so friendly and supportive, I'll be back!"
Joining a walking/running group can increase your motivation, fitness, endurance, confidence and fun quotient. Don't let fear hold you back!
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