Together Everyone Achieves More
How and Why Runners Stay Connected
The concept of teamwork means individual members coming together to work collaboratively towards achieving a shared goal. In otherwise individual pursuits such as running, a team approach means that together, everyone achieves more.
Running with others provides myriad benefits that anyone can enjoy. There is safety in numbers, particularly if you are running in the early hours before sunrise or in unfamiliar areas.
It is fun to get your training done while catching up with friends, or meeting new ones. Kilometres tick by very quickly as you engage in conversation.
Having company on hard intervals or quality sessions definitely makes them feel easier and more achievable. This holds true even if you are running at different paces and you still have the warm-up and cool-down to do together.
Most importantly, it provides a strong sense of belonging. Relatedness to others is one of three essential psychological needs according to the psychological Self Determination Theory. It was at the insistence of my Clinical Psychologist when I returned from running the Melbourne Marathon in 2019 to find and join a social running group. Humans are social creatures who need others to thrive. Finding your tribe in running is second to none in terms of the psychological benefits running provides.
Embracing Collective Strength for Success
Have you ever marvelled at how a group of runners can seamlessly move together like a well-oiled machine, each step synchronised with the others? Teamwork among runners is not just about physical proximity; it’s about connecting on a deeper level that propels them together towards achieving a shared goal.
My running buddies and I always try to tee up our harder, quality sessions together. Why? Because they are infinitely more enjoyable and feel easier with company. When I first began participating in organised running events, I was thrilled to realise that my perceived exertion was lower than my regular solo training runs. The power of people, all working towards a shared or similar goal, can influence how we psychologically perceive the effort we put in towards achieving it.
Finding Your Stride: Building Trust and Communication
In a relay race, passing the baton smoothly requires trust and clear communication among team members. Just like how runners rely on each other to execute flawless hand-offs, effective teamwork is built on trust and open lines of communication. When runners are physically and mentally connected, they can achieve feats that seem impossible alone.
The Ripple Effect of Collaboration
The beauty of teamwork among runners is the ripple effect it creates. When one team member is struggling, others step in to offer support and encouragement. Together, they lift the entire team to new heights. It’s a symbiotic relationship where each runner plays a vital role in the team’s success.
The recent Margaret River 80km Ultra Relay event epitomised this supportive relationship. Each team member ran their leg solo but knowing that the next runner was eagerly anticipating our arrival so they could commence their leg meant we pushed harder, unwilling to reduce our effort lest we let the team down.
Overcoming Obstacles Together
Running, like life, is full of unexpected obstacles and challenges. In a team setting, these hurdles can be easier to overcome when faced together. From pushing through the last kilometre of a gruelling race to navigating unexpected weather conditions, the bond among runners strengthens as they conquer challenges as a united front.
Celebrating Victories as One
The sweet taste of victory is even sweeter when shared with a team. Every personal best, every race won is a testament to the power of teamwork and connection among runners. The celebration is not just for individual achievements but for the collective effort that propelled the team towards success.
Our coach and creator of the Runners Connected running group, Kat, posts a weekly wrap-up after events. It is an opportunity to highlight team members’ achievements. The support, encouragement, congratulations, and celebration of others’ success have a snowball effect, inspiring others and lifting spirits.
In Conclusion
Teamwork among runners is not just a concept; it’s a way of life that embodies collaboration, support, and unity. As runners stay connected through the highs and lows of their journey, they forge bonds that go beyond the finish line. So next time you hit the pavement or trails with your team, remember the strength from being connected and united in purpose.
Running is often considered a solo sport. While it remains a fabulous way to enjoy solitude when you head out alone, there is also a whole community with which we can share the awesome experience of training, racing, participating, and enjoying running.
So go on, find your tribe, your TEAM and Together, Everyone can Achieve More!