For years I have been going out on my own, either running, walking or a combination of both.  When I am out by myself, it seems as if I tend to go slow…just plodding along at whatever pace seems easy.

On Wednesday, at our weekly group run, four of us fell into pace with each other.  Two of us would pull ahead for a bit, then the others would catch up, but for the most part, we did the 3.6 mile loop around Lake Winona together.  Kasha, Sarah, Lisa and I had great conversations and an excellent workout!  Lisa and I have known each other for a long time, and I walked with Sarah a couple of weeks ago, but for the most part, we were “new” friends who had a great deal to share with and learn about each other!  What a great experience!

What I noticed most, was that I pushed myself harder in a group.  I felt more compelled to run more, and to keep up speed.  We all stopped to walk when needed, and honored how our bodies felt, just as we should.  But we also pushed it a bit harder and got a much better workout.

Now I am not saying that we should always run in groups, but I think it will be nice to have a group who are similar paces, who can help each other to train.  Perhaps it will make it easier to train for certain distances also!  I hope so….

A while ago, I had put out a request for a marathon training partner, and no one has stepped up to the plate yet!!  Anyone out there who would like to do a 5-6 hour marathon training plan with me for an October Marathon???? 

So any other of you 12 minute milers out there in Winona, won’t you join us next week??  We would love to run the lake with you!

yogajen