This week I’m going to be part of the twelfth annual Carspondent.com Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year awards program. A fun program, which I’ve been invited to for the past 4 or 5 years, to judge cars in different categories for people who live an active lifestyle. I realized just the other day that while every friend or family member I have is not an endurance athlete, a large contingent of my friends, colleagues and people I know are pretty active people – with naturally many of them being runners. This does make sense because I have been a runner and/or coach for nearly 39 years, and one would think that over nearly four decades I would meet like-minded people.
You’re an endurance island
But for some of you out there you may feel like you’re an “endurance island” because none of your family, friends or colleagues endeavor in endurance sports. You maybe have just picked up this new endurance athlete lifestyle and want to meet people, make new friends, but do not have a clue on where to turn.
Luckily I’m immersed in this endurance escapade and can give you some ideas on where to look and find some like-minded people.
1. Join a running, cycling or triathlon club or group
I’ve written before about finding the right endurance club for you in a previous post, but will just say here that if you simply type in “running/triathlon/cycling club/group (your city)” in the Google search bar you’ll certainly come up with some results. Also, jump on Facebook and do the same thing and see what pops up. There is a little trial and error here on finding the right club or group for you, but believe me we are out there.
2. Check with your local Running or triathlon store
If you have a local running or triathlon store in your area (you may have one, but not even know it – again, do that Google search thing) many times the store will have runs and rides from their location, which are usually free to anyone who wishes to join.
3. Check your local gym if they have any endurance groups
Not all gyms have running, cycling or swim groups, but some do. Life Time Fitness is an example of a gym that provides both training and social rides/runs for both members and non-members.
4. Go to Races
You may not feel like you’re even ready to race yet, but even if you’re not ready to compete just yet, head over to a larger endurance event and simply be a spectator. Many times endurance groups and organizations have tents at the race, or the expo, where you can learn more about what their club is all about.
5. Start Your Own Group
Why can’t you be the catalyst in this new endurance athlete lifestyle? Many people want to get in shape and be healthier, but simply don’t know what to do or have the courage to start. Ask some of your friends, family members or co-workers if they want to go for a walk, ride, swim or jog before work, at lunch-time or in the evening. You may be pleasantly surprised who takes you up on it.
There you go. You have no more excuses on how to find other endurance-minded people. Have fun and enjoy this new lifestyle you’ve taken on.
