If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
Running is often celebrated as a solitary pursuit—a time to disconnect, find mental clarity, and test personal limits. But while solo runs have their place, being part of a running community brings a wealth of benefits that elevate the experience. Whether you’re lacing up for your first 5K, pushing toward a goal marathon, tackling an ultra, or simply cheering from the sidelines, a supportive community can make all the difference.
1. Easier to Get Out the Door
Let’s face it: some days, the hardest part of running is starting. When your bed feels extra cozy or the weather isn’t ideal, knowing that your running group is waiting can be the motivation you need. Accountability is a powerful tool—sharing goals and committing to meet others eliminates excuses and gets you moving. After all, it’s harder to hit snooze when your friends are counting on you.
2. Find Friends Who Share Your Passion
Running communities are built on camaraderie. Whether you’re new to the sport, a seasoned marathoner, or simply love supporting runners, you’ll meet people who share your enthusiasm for the sport. Plus, swapping training tips, race stories, and favorite fueling hacks is much more fun with people who “get it.” These friendships often extend beyond running—bonding over shared miles or a mutual love of race-day excitement fosters deep connections that can last a lifetime. From my own personal experience, my closest and most enduring friendships have been created through running together. When I moved to the Duluth/ Superior Area, I struggled to make new friends as an introvert and a busy mom. However, after I started joining some group runs, I quickly was able to meet some amazing people, that not only are great to train with, but are a blast to hang out with outside of running.
3. Discover New Routes and Adventures
New to town? Tired of the same old loop around your neighborhood? Joining a group introduces you to new trails, scenic routes, and hidden gems in your area. Exploring different terrains (trails, gravel, roads) keeps training fresh and exciting, and the collective knowledge of your community often means someone knows the best spots to run in every season. And running with a group can make unfamiliar or remote areas feel safer. Plus, they might expand your horizons. A little positive peer pressure may have you signing up for that first ultra, a marathon in a distant city, or as a volunteer at an aid station.
4. Create and Stick to a Schedule
Consistency is key to progress, and a running community helps you stay on track. Many groups offer organized schedules for weekly runs, long-distance training, or speed work, making it easier to plan your workouts. As the days get shorter and colder, this is a great way to continue to get out the door and run through the winter months, when motivation may be waning and there aren’t as many races on the calendar. Knowing that your crew is sticking to a routine encourages you to show up regularly, which builds endurance and momentum over time.
5. Celebrate Milestones Together
Every runner has goals—whether it’s finishing a race, hitting a personal best, or conquering an intimidating distance for the first time. A community amplifies the joy of reaching these milestones. They’ll cheer you on, celebrate your wins, and support you through setbacks. Sharing your journey with others makes every achievement feel even sweeter and the heartbreaks less painful.
6. Gain Motivation from Shared Energy
Running alone can sometimes feel like a slog, but the collective energy of a group is contagious. Even on tough days, the enthusiasm of your fellow runners can lift your spirits and push you to give your best. When the miles get hard, having someone beside you—whether they’re chatting, pacing, or simply sharing the silence—can make all the difference. Even if you’re not lacing up, being present as a volunteer, pacer, or supporter lets you tap into the electric atmosphere of group events. Not only is it a morale boost for the friends you’re supporting, but handing out water at a marathon or cheering along a course is just as fulfilling as running it—and you’ll leave inspired every time.
7. Access A Wealth of Information and Inspiration
Running communities are diverse, with members of varying experience levels. This creates an invaluable environment for learning—veterans share tips on training, gear, and recovery, while newer runners bring fresh energy and enthusiasm. You have people to bounce ideas off, strategize with, and work through issues together. You’ll also find role models whose stories inspire you to dream bigger and aim higher.
8. Build a Support System
Running isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s also a mental and emotional journey. Your community becomes a built-in support system that celebrates your highs and helps you navigate challenges. Whether you’re overcoming an injury, battling self-doubt, or simply struggling to find motivation, your running friends will have your back. Plus, being able to have a car at the beginning and ending of a trailhead, is super helpful.
You Don’t Have to Be a Runner to Belong
One of the greatest things about running communities is that they welcome everyone. You don’t need to run to participate—there are so many ways to contribute. Volunteer at races, help organize events, or simply show up to cheer and support. These roles are just as vital to the success of the group, and they foster the same sense of belonging and fulfillment.
Finding Your Running Tribe
Joining a running community doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start small by connecting with local running groups, clubs, or even online forums. Facebook, Strava, and Instagram are great places to look for running groups and meetups. Local running and outdoor stores may be able to point you in the right direction. Many times races (marathons and halves) may have training plans and group runs offered alongside your registration (like Grandma’s does). Finally, volunteering at a local race can help you make some connections.
If structured meetups aren’t your style, consider forming your own crew with friends or coworkers who share your interest. And remember—there’s always a place for you, whether you’re on the course, helping behind the scenes, or simply cheering from the crowd.
A Community for Every Runner
Running might seem like an individual sport, but with the right community, it transforms into something bigger. It’s about shared experiences, mutual encouragement, and a collective love for the miles ahead. So whether you’re chasing a personal record, cheering on friends, or passing out water cups at mile 20, remember: every step—running or not—is better together.
If you’d like help connecting with other runners, I’d be happy to help try and make some connections! @superiorsingletrack on Instagram.
Shannon Hogan
Shannon is a 2025 Grambassador. Meet the other ambassadors here.
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Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: This is a tough one. Up until last year, I would have said crossing the finish line at my first Grandma’s, but the 2024 race changed that. I have two. First, running the William A. Irvin 5k with my daughter, Dot. She has been participating in marathon weekend for a few years now in the Whipper Snapper Races, but this was her first official race. Seeing her develop a love for running, the community, and challenging herself has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve gained from running. Second,when I realized I was going to BQ the final miles of the race last year. Throughout the entire race I had my doubts, but nearing the end of Superior Street, I knew I had it and that was an incredible feeling.
Song that must be on your running playlist: Music is so instrumental (no pun intended) to my everyday life. So,my go to songs constantly change. Right now,I love “Run Away to Mars” by TALKS and “Outro” by the M83s (that one has been a favorite for quite a while).
Favorite post-race beverage: Coffee. Iced or hot, depending on the weather. Always with creamer.
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Consistent, Gritty, Chaotic
2025 Running Goal: Run another Boston Qualifier at Grandma’s. They’ve lowered the standard, so that means I’m shooting for a faster time. Complete another 100k or 100 miler next year.