On The Running Buddy Hunt? What You Need To Keep In Mind Before Committing

Remember when you were a wee chap, probably in kindergarten or so, and you were assigned a buddy as a means of support as you ventured into big kid school? Personally, I’ve never forgotten my buddy – she was like the big sister I never had (and I have three of those, so that’s really saying something).

Your running buddies are much the same, except this time ’round you’re independent enough to choose your own pal, and, consequently, your own path. It’s on you if you screw up the pivotal decision, you know? To help you choose the right fit friend to keep you on track, we called upon Blackmores Wellbeing Coach / avid runner Bec Wilcock for her wise, fit ways. 

HUNT FOR RELIABILITY

In the same way you don’t have time for flaky friends, your health doesn’t have the patience for unpredictable running partners. 

“Having the right running buddy can motivate you to stick to your running program BUT they can also let you down by changing days and times or not showing up.” Bec says. 

If they don’t rock up, chances are you’ll pull the pin altogether too and lose bigger-picture momentum.

DON’T DEPEND ON JUST ONE PERSON

Just like you turn to different people in your life for different things, the same thing should apply to running. Besides, we’ve all got lives / schedules. To avoid getting pissy with your running buddy for not being able to make the sesh, have a backup – heck have 10 backups if you really want. 

Bec has around five running buddies because, well, that girl loves to run. 

“I have the selection on hand for different running session and variety of character. For example, if I’m doing an adventure, long, slow-distance run I will call up my best friend Fee and make her do it with me – this way I can catch up with her and have a laugh whilst knocking out some kms. Beats sitting down for a coffee!”

FIND SOMEONE WHO’S AS FIT (OR FITTER) 

Thomas Plante, a PhD and professor in psychology at Santa Clara University, explained that, “Who you exercise with matters“. A study he conducted showcased that you’ll want to buddy up with someone who has a similar or a slightly higher fitness level, as people who exercise together mimic the behaviour of their partner.

Bec echoes this sentiment, telling us, “Your buddy needs to be around the same running fitness as you so you can grow together without losing motivation.“

Frustration and passive-aggressive behaviour will hurt more than just your exercising relationship, trust me. 

LOOK FOR COMPETITIVE BLOOD

Let’s be honest, who’s ever slacked off their usual fitness routine, only until they found out a friend has been smashing it? Innate human competition is a great thing should it push you to achieve your personal best, but you don’t have to compete on the sly. Own it. Use it.

“They will keep you honest about your sessions and ensure you have accountability. They will find you if you miss a training session!” Bec explains. 

MAKE DAMN SURE THEY’RE A GOOD MIX 

You want a good hybrid human if you’re going to be running with them on the reg – don’t just specifically look for one quality. For example, you want someone who can push you to your limits, but is compassionate should you need to take a breather. Someone who can have a laugh if you let out a lil’ mid-run fart, but knows when to go full-blown serious for kicking goals. Make a checklist of what you want, and what you need in a running buddy and be sure that they tick all your boxes. This stuff isn’t too dissimilar to the dating game, you guys.

“Choose someone that can make you laugh when you are in pain and push you when you want to give up. These are the times when you really need the person running with you to be there for you. And likewise, you will need to pull them through mental barriers at certain times too!”

Finding the perf running buddy is no easy feat, but doable nonetheless. Sometimes it’s about collection and selecting – a process of elimination of sorts – you’ll get there and feel darn good about your fine self when you do. 

Remember, though, finding an A+ running buddy is a two-way street.

You’ve got to pick up your game too.