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" Did you know that up until the 90s, when American pro-running performances allegedly declined, professional runners always trained in groups\u2014at which point the trend moved towards personal training coaches? On certain Wednesdays, during my after-work run along the East River, I often bump into several organized workout groups\u2014most likely a high school team or an organization, like Road Runners. Although I&amp;#039;m doing the same thing as them\u2014running\u2014I&amp;#039;m always happy I&amp;#039;m not with them. Alone, I can reflect on the day, rock out to Beyonce&amp;#039;s new blood-pumping hit (I mean\u2026) and, most importantly, turn around when I want to. Though, I often wonder if I&amp;#039;d feel differently if I actually gave it a shot. Here, some evidence\u2014aside from the obvious: new friends, protection, motivation\u2014that I might. According to New York Times columnist Gina Kolata, training with partners, so long as they are the right partners, may help runners reach their true potential. Those running alone, according to the article, may be grossly underestimating their ability\u2014both physically and mentally, i.e. when you see others meet their goals, success seems to much more in reach for you, too.&amp;quot;When one person in a group has an outstanding performance, others gain confidence that they might be able to do it.&amp;quot;  What do you think? Do you prefer a workout buddy or is working out more about refocusing than enhancing your performance ability? Tell us in the comments. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.womansday.com/health-fitness/workout-routines/news/a43919/group-workouts-boast-better-results-4215/>