Tuesday's Training Tip: Get a buddy

Running buddies are motivators who can save you from yourself and make your run more fun. Whether you are just starting out or you have been running for a while and need a little motivation, a running buddy can help you stick to your training plan – even if that plan is simply to keep moving. Here are a few examples of ways the buddy system works for me.

Training Buddy – You and this buddy have committed to a race. You are following a training plan with regular and specific workouts, times, and distances. You can’t let each other down because you know your buddy is counting on you – and you are a little bit afraid she might get herself into better shape than you if she does the workout while you skip.

Training for a half marathon

I Need a Run Buddy – This buddy is willing to go for a run at the drop of a hat. She is also a good ear, and that’s why you need her at the drop of a hat.  She can help you burn some steam and regroup when you are feeling stressed.

I Will if You Will Buddy – This buddy helps you talk yourself into going for a run. I might text her and ask, “Are you running today?” Her reply makes me commit. “Sure, what time do you want to go?”
I Miss My Buddy Buddy – This is the friend that you have grown to love over miles and miles. You haven’t seen her for a time and a run is the perfect way to catch up.

I've had these buddies for years!

I’m just a Runner Buddy – This buddy isn’t one of your regular workout partners, but she is a runner, so you are friends.  That’s how it works – runners feel kinship to runners.  You might only run together once or twice a year, but when the regular buddies are not available you can find a friend to tag along.

Lot's of shapes, sizes, and ages!

Running buddies come in many shapes, sizes, ages, and a couple of genders. Some of them never go for a run together – they just like to talk about running when they are together. This much I know … If you become a runner, your social circles will expand in ways you never anticipated. Running will enrich your social life – it did that for mine!

How does your running buddy motivate you? Sound off in the comments below!

Running Granny Green encourages women, especially grandmothers, to gain greater fitness by providing tips and inspiration to insure long years of joyful grand-parenting. The cookie recipes are a bonus!

Happy Running!

- Carol aka Running Granny Green

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