Improve Your Fitness Through Group Training

As the saying goes, there is strength in numbers. Turns out this crowd mentality is especially helpful if you're trying to meet a fitness goal.

Photo by BL1961.

The New York Times relays the story of runner Dathan Ritzenhein, who'd found himself in a fitness slump. After trying to re-energise himself through various other training methods, Dathan decided to seek out and train with fast runners.

Feeding off the energy of the other runners helped him step up and train harder than did running solo. The article argues that "the right workout companions...can make all the difference", especially because solo runners and other workout enthusiasts who go it alone may underestimate their own ability. Having someone alongside you during your workout routine can help prevent this from happening.

A final benefit of group training: You're held more accountable in a group than you are training on your own. If you run or hit the gym in groups, has it improved your performance? Let us know in the comments.

To Train Harder, Consider a Crowd [NYT]