Why Should You Be Part of an Online Running Community?

Regardless of where you live, there are sure to be a number of ‘in person’ running groups that you can get involved with. However, a lot of people are opting to join running groups virtually. There are a growing number of reasons for this.

The Benefits of Joining an Online Running Community

An online group is a flexible and convenient way to immerse yourself in the larger running community. You can log on, browse and discuss running at a time that suits you. This is ideal if you have a demanding work schedule. Or you have a busy home life or other hobbies to make time for. Rather than having to dedicate a specific time and day to an ‘in person’ running group each week, you can speak to people on a similar mission in a way that works for you.

What Level Of Runner Do I Need To Be?

It doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner who is getting started with running for the very first time or you are a serious athlete and training for an ultra marathon or perhaps a 10k run. Joining an online running community has a number of benefits. Though you are sure to find a local running club and running events to partake in, there is no denying the growing popularity of doing things virtually. This is because an online running group has a lot to offer, such as:

What Can An Online Running Community Offer Me?

Great Source of Motivation – Regardless of how much you enjoy running, keeping yourself motivated can be a struggle. It could be the darker and colder evenings that puts you off, the rainy mornings or tiredness from a busy day at work. It could be that you would rather stay in and watch television or hang out with friends. There is always something that has the potential to draw you away from your running club, 5k run or training for running competitions. Luckily, an online running community can help you to stay motivated. Being part of an online community can hold you accountable for how much you run and how much you push yourself.

Feel Part of Something Bigger – Though you may enjoy group running occasionally, it is mostly a solo activity and something we do as individuals. This can be lonely and feeling somewhat isolated isn’t uncommon. Especially if running isn’t something your friends and family are passionate about. By joining an online running group, you will feel as though you are part of something bigger. There is a sense of camaraderie and community; it’s a place that brings like-minded people together to share in a common interest.

Support and Guidance – There is a level of running that suits everyone. From complete beginners to those that regularly run half marathons. But we all want to progress and improve. That could mean running a longer distance, gradually improving your pace or running more frequently. When you are part of an online running community, support and guidance is always available. Whether you need advice on how to build up your speed or recommendations on the latest fitness tracking technology. An online community can be a hub of information.

Knowledge, Guidance and Support

When you consider the above benefits, it’s easy to see why those who associate with people on a similar running mission to them are more likely to achieve success. It can be tempting to embark on a running journey alone. It’s a largely solo activity, but joining others online can make a big difference. An online running community provides information and guidance when you need it. It’s also a fantastic way to meet like-minded people with the same core interest.

What’s the best online running community? Head over to our Band Of Orange page to learn more about this engaging and inspiring member area.