Running alone has become a necessity for many as the spread of the Coronavirus reached pandemic levels, social distancing guidelines forced the cancellation of group activities throughout the world. This was felt in the running community not only with the cancellation of formal events such as races, but also with the restructuring of running routines in our everyday lives.
Running clubs went on hiatus and even informal two-person partner runs were postponed. If your running program had previously consisted solely of group and partner runs, you were now faced with a choice: give up running until restrictions were lifted or learn to embrace running solo.
As a person who has run alone the majority of my life, it didn’t occur to me that this would present a choice for some. The realization came to me only after I ran a marathon solo. Due to the pandemic, the race I had trained for was cancelled with little advance notice. I had already reached the 20-mile mark in my training plan and could not fathom simply sacrificing all the time and effort it had taken me to get there.
Throwing in the towel was not a worthwhile option, so I decided to run 26.2 miles by myself in my hometown. When my husband posted pictures of my “race” on social media, many people seemed astonished that I would even consider attempting such a feat. However, running solo has many benefits that all runners should consider.
1. Running alone is easier logistically.
Running alone does not require making plans with others or accommodating anyone else’s schedule. If you find yourself with unexpected free time, you can lace up and head out the door. If you are late leaving work on a day you had planned to run, the delay will not inconvenience anyone else.
2. Solo runs allow you to run at your own pace.
It’s hard to find a running partner whose pace is an exact match for your own. If you try to match a faster partner’s pace, you can end up pushing yourself too hard and risking injury. On the other hand, if you are running with someone whose pace is significantly slower than your own, you can end up getting little aerobic benefit from the run. If you are running for fun, this may not be an issue. However, if you are following a training plan in an attempt to reach a certain goal or compete in a specific race, matching your partner’s pace could be detrimental to your progress. When you run solo, your only competition is yourself.
3. Running alone reduces the risk of injury.
As previously noted, if you continually push your pace or distance to match that of a partner, you are at a greater risk of an over-use or stress-induced injury. Furthermore, if you struggle to maintain a faster pace for an extended period, your form will suffer, which will also increase the risk of injury.
4. Solo running is good for your mental health.
Running alone, especially when running long distances, increases your self-reliance and mental fortitude. There’s no one there to cheer you on or to encourage you to pick up the pace when you’re tired. In addition, solo running gives your mind time to wander. You can work through problems and organize plans. Some runners even use the time to be creative, planning projects in their minds as the miles pass.
5. Running solo allows you to disconnect from others while reconnecting with nature and yourself.
When you run by yourself, there’s no obligation to make small-talk or entertain someone else. You can leave the stress of the world behind and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. There’s time for self-reflection and introspection, which will improve your self-awareness and mental clarity.
Having a running partner can be fun. Having company on long training runs can help the miles to pass more quickly. It can be nice to connect with friends while doing something you love. But running alone has undeniable benefits. If you have not already done so, it’s time to try running solo.
