One barrier to a successful fitness program is motivation. There’s one solution at your fingertips, however, and that’s finding someone to join in the program so you can push each other. You don’t have to run alone. I’m sure you have no problem finding someone to go on a shopping trip with you.

If running is your fitness program of choice, then you can start your search for a running partner or group by visiting a local race. At every race you’ll see runners from a variety of clubs. If you don’t want to approach a member, you can search the internet for a club and determine if it has the programs you’re seeking.

Look for programs for beginning runners to teach running tips, safety tips, and where and at what times they meet for training runs. You’ll have the camaraderie of other runners. You’ll find ways to improve your running or ways to maintain the interest. You may not have any desire to race for a time, but it’s important to maintain a healthy program.

There’s nothing wrong with being the type of person who goes out to run a certain number of days a week but doesn’t keep a log book. You can run to have the time on your feet without any regard as to how fast you go or what distance you cover.

A common practice is to ask a person, “What pace are you going to run?” It would feel good to say, “I’m running fast enough to finish.” Be warned though: You’ll get a strange look.

As noted above, finding a running partner or group can:

• inspire you to improve beyond your current capabilities
• provide an opportunity to discuss injury prevention with others who have had the same injury
• access programs that include the entire family
• help you adjust to a new area and recommend areas to train
• create a set schedule to join weekly runs
• help you meet other runners who are more concerned about what you expect from the club rather than how fast a runner you are

I’m sure you can add more to this list.

Another resource is the Road Runners Clubs of America. The organization started in 1958, and today it has more than 2,400 clubs across the United States. You can visit their website and search for your state to find a club near you.

A number of clubs sponsor family running events and programs designed for families along with social events. They do have a program which is directed toward youth to help promote fitness. The clubs are open to members of all abilities.