Getting all buddy-buddy

They say misery loves company. For runners, this is especially true. It turns out that many people rely on running buddies, but not just for motivation! A running buddy can act as a friend, coach, cheerleader, or just a partner in misery. Running alongside a teammate, I listen to their breathing, the pounding of their feet, the rustle of their clothes. It's oddly comforting to know that I'm not the only one out there; there is someone else that is pushing themselves just as hard with the same goal. We are all working for the elation of a personal record, the thrill of crossing the finish line and knowing that we left it all on the track. This common goal unties polar opposites in a fusion of sweaty bodies. We all seem to meld together into one pulsing mass of swift feet and pumping arms-- each individual gives a part of themselves when running with another in order to achieve the strength of the group. With this sacrifice comes a responsibility. As a teammate and member of a pack, I know I hold a tiny piece of my fellow runners with me. Just as I have given myself to the group, so have they, and I am responsible to them as long as we run together. In my experiences, running with a group improves my attitude, execution, confidence, and contentment. When embarking on a run or workout with the team I can rely on their presence to hold me accountable to completing it. Though I would finish a run regardless of company, knowing I am being observed encourages me to put in the extra ounce of effort to make each day strong. I even enjoy many of the runs because of our crazy antics and interesting conversations. More importantly (for my training, at least) is the fact that my pack executes a pace much better than I would on my own. During out endurance workout yesterday my group maintained a great pace throughout the tempo portion of the run. I relaxed and let Bridgit lead me for the middle mile, measuring my steps and breathing to hers. With McKenzie next to us, our three sum held eachother accountable with periodic gasps of support. Finally, completing a workout with a pack reinforces my self confidence; knowing I can keep pace with my teammates in workouts gives me confidence to try to stick with them in races. It also pleases me to know that I put as much effort into it as they did. There are so many benefits to pack running that I could never express. Truly, one must run in a pack to see the effect the group can have on an individual runner. It's an incredible experience. More than merely making running enjoyable, buddies can be an integral part in success.