What qualities does a good 'runner' need?

Punctuality, support, same level or no jealousy... are the qualities that a runner needs from the people they train with.

Be on time . What could be more frustrating than arriving at a meeting on time, only to have to wait for your running partner? Being on time is an important quality when choosing a workout partner. Plan and execute together to avoid wasting each other’s time.

Supportive . A little friendly competition isn't a bad thing, but runners will always want their runners to support their goals and plans, including wanting to run shorter or longer distances. Or they'll want their runners to be willing to adjust their training schedule when they're injured or sick. Or if one of them succeeds, the other will be happy for the other.

A pair of "comrades" holding flags together as they reach the finish line at VnExpress Marathon Quy Nhon 2019. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Have fun . Whatever your goals, exercise should be fun. This doesn't mean you'll be laughing mid-workout, but keeping things fun will make the tough moments a little more bearable.

Same ability level . This isn’t necessarily necessary, but running with someone of similar ability will make things a little easier. That way, you can keep each other honest, run similar paces and workouts, and ultimately enjoy the shared experience more.

Stick to the plan . You have a specific plan for each workout, but the other person wants to change it up and run hill sprints? Running with someone like that will take both your focus and your training time.

Don't be overly competitive . Does your running partner always have to be ahead of you or try to finish first in every workout? Do your speed runs turn into a race to the finish line? If so, this isn't the right person to be your running partner, and you should find someone else.

Don’t cancel . You had plans to work out tonight, but they called you out at the last minute and apologized profusely. What about next week? Pick a workout partner with a similar schedule and stick to it, no last-minute cancellations.

Don’t be jealous . Do they get angry when you win a big race or buy a nicer, more expensive pair of trainers? If so, find someone else to train with. Your running partners should celebrate your success, not be jealous or angry.

Hong Duy (according to Runner's World )

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