How to get your pals involved in running

So running and keeping fit has become your lifestyle– or at least a huge part of it. You love it so much you could talk training plans, new workout ideas, and gross runner’s problems forever. The problem: your pals don’t dig it like you do. Hey, not everyone is a runner and to each their own. BUT if you’ve got a couple buds that you know would love the sport, there’s a chance they may just need a little encouragement. Here’s how to test the waters to see if your BFF is susceptible to catching the bug:

Start small. Don’t mention hills. Don’t say tempo. Don’t tell your friend what you run on your long runs and definitely don’t tell him/ her about your pace per kilometre. Do any of these things and your friend will never run with you because that stuff just makes the sport sound daunting when you haven’t done it before. Start small. Invite him/her on an easy four kilometre loop. Suggest a walk/run. Forget about timing. That doesn’t matter for the first little while. Ease this person in gently.

Browse race pictures on social media to give your bud a sense of what to expect. Race day isn’t this all-serious competition-only event that the non-runner might think it is. And the photos from recent races will show that. Give them a taste of what it’s all about. Festive race environments really bring out the crazy in some people!

Suggest a night of healthy cooking to get this friend or group of friends on their new health kick. Sometimes we all just need a little nudge when it comes to eating healthy and getting in shape. Make an awesome hummus to serve at ladies night or make an interesting variation of your regular pizza crust when pals come over for drinks. You never know what will get them interested.

Take him/ her gear shopping. Or show off your new outfit. Running style has gotten significantly cooler over the years. If ever there was a time to convince someone to convert, it’s now.

Share your most humbling running moments. When your friend hears you talk about running, they think you’re a star. Your commitment might be a little intimidating to the person who doesn’t do what you do. They might even think you’re just a natural. So tell them about the times you’ve struggled through the short loop or the times when you too didn’t think you’d be able to finish a 10K or half-marathon. They will see that everyone struggles and that no, it’s not a case of “you’ve got it or you don’t.” Everyone was once at square one. Remind them that.