RUNNING ALONE: THE BENEFITS

Lone shell on a beach at sunrise. Taken by PKSenagore, February 2107. All rights reserved

A CRITICAL REASON TO RUN ALONE is that it's the only option available if you are to fulfill a commitment to train. Sometimes the lack of a supporting partner or 'herd' can provide an excuse  NOT to pursue a fitness goal.  In this instance the social aspect of running can be an obstacle to accomplishment.

If the opportunity to run with others or on your own exists, there are substantial benefits to regularly or occasionally taking off running in solo mode.

I absolutely loved the article “7 Benefits of Running Alone” written by Dorothy Beal for Competitor.com.  She put into words much of what I feel in my heart during these runs. Beal lists seven reasons, which roughly segregate into 3 areas: control, awareness, confidence.
 
Control: if there’s no partner or group to consult about a run you can determine all the workout variables, like where, when, how long, and how fast or slow the pace.   What I enjoy is that these decisions can be made just prior to or during the run.
 
Awareness: it’s all about you and your surroundings. With a bit of concentration, you can tap into what you’re feeling physically and mentally and take notice of the natural surroundings or people on the path with you. For singles this may mean recognizing the interest of other singles directed AT you, and being able to take advantage of a relatively ‘safe’ situation to make an initial connection!
 
Confidence: doing anything alone requires a bit more moxie than relying on others for companionship and support.  Taking control and responsibility for your physical wellness and becoming self-aware and tuned into others can set up conditions that promote emotional growth that extends into your non-running life. Yay for you!
 
You’re never alone in the universe of runners but friendships enrich our lives and should not be neglected. Lone running may not be something to do all the time. Solo sessions could be reserved for special days or settings.
 
RUN HAPPY!
 
http://www.active.com/running/articles/7-benefits-of-running-alone
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