There's never any time like the present to take to the streets and trails for a good run.
Group running is a great way to do it!
Granted, sometimes you just want that solitary run to get lost in your own thoughts. But here are some reasons why you may also want to consider including a group run in your weekly plans:
Knowing that you're meeting the group can spur you to run...when you might otherwise "sleep in" or perhaps forgo your run completely that day!
Running with the group takes your mind off the fact that you're getting rained on, snowed on, or buffeted by gale-force winds.
The group can give you sensible advice, based on their own experiences.
The group can introduce you to new or potential running routes that you may have never considered.
The group can support you when you're struggling and need it most -- when you've got an injury, are getting back into training, or are undergoing a personal trial.
Giving friendly encouragement to others can be extremely rewarding as well.
Running with others can motivate you to run more frequently...and help increase your running confidence.
If you do have a fitness, weight management, or training goal, training with a group can help you achieve and possibly exceed -- it!
Depending on the area you're running in and the time of day, the group can spell safety in numbers.
Group runs can help you connect with people who share your interests.
Group running can be as competitive or as laid-back as you like. Simply find friends in your pacing group and go for whatever goal you've set for yourself today, whether that goal is to achieve a seven-minute mile or to run down to the big patch of purple wildflowers on Perk Trail. Miles invariably become less of an effort as you tell stories about your week, and hear what your friends have to say about theirs!
And friends you make on the trail can become friends for life...even off the trail
Group running can be a driving force to help you take on exciting new challenges in all areas of your life that you never thought possible.
Benefits of being a Fast Tracks Member
Consider what "members in good standing" get, for the extremely reasonable annual rate of $15:
A multitude of track and running-group options, six days a week!
Knowledgeable group leaders, and training schedules carefully plotted to address some of the different race needs of Fast Tracks members
Regular communications, pointing you to hot new information on our Web site.
Use of our special members-only mailbox, which lets you e-mail the group en masse to seek training advice, good trails, a running partner, etc.
Buddies of all paces. Everyone can truly find a pacing partner here. And you can choose to develop as competitively or non-competitively as you like.
Discount benefits on running gear, therapeutic massage, and gym membership
The chance to hobnob with fellow Fast Trackers at our great Broad Street Run and Philly Half-Marathon tailgates, summer picnics, holiday parties, and other festivities that crop up throughout the year.
