Last weekend a group of my friends and I got together for the St. Patty's Day Dash in Seattle. This is the third year we've run this race and it's more fun each year. People dress up, there's a ton of awesome give aways, and a really exciting atmosphere. Although, it's only a 5K, the whole event takes up the majority of the day. Races like these end up being so much fun, its one of my favorite ways to spend the day.
This year, a friend of mine, who is new to running and had not run a race, joined us. It got me thinking about what some of my some rules of running with friends. I've met several runners who refuse to run with anyone because they do not want to have to slowdown, or force
someone else to slowdown. As I was thinking about how to run with friends and have it be enjoyable for everyone there was really only one "rule" that should be followed:
Its usually pretty clear when you meet up to run, what each person's pace is. What my friends and I do is the faster person slows down, while the slower person pushes it. It's also really nice for the speedy runner to check in a couple times to make sure the pace is alright.
Races are a different situation all together. We always make it very clear it's every man (or woman) for himself. Do your best and I'm gonna do my best. We'll meet at the finish line. This takes the pressure of everyone.
