By: Zavannah Van Leeuwen from Dallas Running Company
Running is a great way to stay fit, relieve stress, and bond with your significant other. But let’s be honest—what starts as a romantic jog through the park can quickly turn into a competitive race, a pacing disaster, or, worst-case scenario, an argument that ends with one of you running home alone.
At Dallas/Fort Worth Running Company, we believe that running together should bring you closer, not drive you apart. So, here are some tips to help you and your partner train together without calling it quits (on running—or each other!).
1. Communicate Expectations (Before You Lace Up)
Before you hit the pavement, talk about your goals. Is one of you training for a marathon while the other just wants to enjoy an easy jog? Be upfront about your pace, distance, and what you want out of the run so no one gets left in the dust—or frustrated.
2. Embrace the Art of Compromise
You might have different speeds, endurance levels, or training styles. Instead of making every run a struggle for dominance, find middle ground. Alternate between faster and slower days, or let one person set the pace one run and switch the next.
3. Warm Up and Cool Down Together
Even if you plan to split up during the run, starting and finishing together can help you feel connected. Do dynamic stretches together before heading out and take time to walk and stretch afterward while chatting about the run.
4. Make It Fun (Not a Competition)
Nothing kills the romance like one partner constantly trying to “win” the run. Instead of racing, turn it into a shared experience. Run a scenic route, explore new trails, or stop for a post-run coffee or smoothie date.
5. Support Each Other’s Goals
If one of you is training for a big race while the other is running for fun, find ways to support each other. Join them on easy run days, cheer them on at races, or help with hydration and fueling strategies. A little encouragement goes a long way!
6. Respect the Need for Solo Runs
Running together is great, but so is personal space. If one of you needs a solo run to clear their head, respect that! Training separately sometimes can actually make running together more enjoyable.
7. Invest in Good Gear (and Avoid the “Blame Game”)
Nothing causes mid-run meltdowns like blisters, chafing, or the wrong pair of shoes. Make sure you both have the right running shoes, apparel, and gear for your needs—our expert fitters at Dallas/Fort Worth Running Company can help with that!
8. Laugh It Off
Not every run will go perfectly. Someone might trip, get a side stitch, or insist they saw Bigfoot on the trail. Learn to laugh off the mishaps and enjoy the time together—because at the end of the day, it’s about the journey, not just the miles.
So grab your partner, lace up, and hit the road—just remember, running together should be a bonding experience, not a battle! And if you need the right gear to make it work, come see us at Dallas/Fort Worth Running Company. Happy running (and happy relationship)!
