We operate a 4 pace group system which is adapted depending on numbers attending. Group 1 (7-8 min/mile) and group 2 (8-9 min/mile) tend to run together with faster runners going ahead before looping back. Group 3 is 10-12 min/mile. Group 4 is slightlyHolbetonharrierssecretary@gmail.com slower. We also run an annual Couch to 5K group so if you want to get involved, please contact the Holbeton Harriers secretary. It is often hilly and muddy so paces do tend to be quite a bit slower.
Looping Back
Even within pace groups there can be a broad difference in paces so we operate ‘looping back’. When reaching the end of a track, a gate or particularly the top of a hill, turn and run back past the last runner about 20 m before turning again to bring the group back together. This is important as it supports runners of different paces within the group as runners can go at their own pace and not feel rushed to keep up with faster runners, and faster runners get a little extra distance as well as being about to put in a burst up a hill or along a straight. Just be aware not to lose runners behind you by passing junctions.
Please do try different pace groups as you may find one group provides a faster pace which is good for a challenge some of the time, but then a slower group may be safer to avoid injury and running slower will also support other runners, but please do loop back.
Lastly, it can sometime be sociable to have a jog at the back, a chat, and some well needed easy miles. It is worth bearing in mind that 80% of your running should be easy miles, and 20% where you push yourself, not the other way round.