Encouraging a New Running Partner

Many people think of running as a solitary sport – the lonely runner out on the road pounding the pavement with just his thoughts to keep him company. Maybe that is what is stopping some from giving running a chance. That doesn’t have to be the case.

Though it may not always be a marathon day, where you are surrounded by people of the same interest, it doesn’t have to be a lonely sport either. Running can be a group activity or even one to do with a spouse, friend or running partner. If you are tired of being alone on the running path or even if you are hesitating to get started just because you don’t want to be solitary, try encouraging someone to go out for a run or a jog with you.

When recruiting a new running partner, there are a few things to keep in mine. Wait until your potential running partner shows interest in your activity to approach them. You don’t have to wait until they ask for an invitation; a simple comment showing interest will suffice. However, by extending an invitation to early, you may scare them off.

To peak there interest, tell them a little about the great experiences you have been having through running. A short talk about the fitness benefits you have been seeing or the friends you have made or even an outing to see a running even or marathon together may do.

Show a personal interest in your friend’s fitness goals. Offer them some of your experiences about how running may help them accomplish their goals. Don’t be a doomsayer. Never condemn or tell them about the health risks of not immediately starting a running program. That can be a big turn-off for most people.

While you should tell them some of the benefits you have seen from running, don’t promise them the world. You could be setting them up for becoming discouraged when they don’t see their results immediately.

Keep the experience positive and don’t expose your friend to something they are not ready for. If you are no longer a beginner, remember how it felt when you first started. Make sure to be encouraging and help your friend meet their goals.

At BOOTCAMP 619 we thrive on the spirit of cooperation and work as a team to meet our fitness goals. Come in and join us for a workout and experience this kind of challenge for yourself.