Group running can be great. Here in Richmond we have a great training program which gets runners of all levels ready for our fall marathon. Every runner is placed into a group based on their experience and target times. Each group has a targeted, well planned out schedule that include all of the necessary components: long runs, speed work, hills, cross-training, and days off.
This group training is very popular. Hundreds of runners can be seen running around Richmond every weekend leading up to the marathon. BUT, beware of following your group plan at the expense of your body.
The upside of group running is that it gives everyone a common plan and motivates everyone to train a little it harder. It pushes us to our limits and keeps us motivated at the end of our long runs. It pushes us past the pain, to keep up pace and finish our tough race.
But the downside is that it can keep us going when we're feeling real pain. I've known many friends who have stuck to a schedule and pushed through pain, only to end with an injury.
The key to group running is to let it push you further, but know when it's pushing you too far. Every day, every week, as you're listening to your coaches, also listen to your body. Determine whether your plan is right for you and reassess. You may be pushing to hard. OR, you may not be pushing hard enough.
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