At Astley Toggers, we believe that running is for everyone—no matter your fitness level, speed, or experience. We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where individuals can come together, improve their fitness, and enjoy the social aspects of running. One of the strategies we use to ensure that everyone stays connected, both literally and figuratively, during our group runs is the “looping” technique.

We’re passionate about making running accessible for everyone, no matter their fitness level. The looping technique ensures that no one feels left behind, no matter their speed or experience.

What is the Looping Technique?

The looping technique is a simple yet effective way of ensuring that all runners, regardless of their pace, can remain part of the same group. Essentially, it involves running a set route with certain predetermined points where faster runners loop back to rejoin the rest of the group at regular intervals. These loop-back points are carefully planned so that runners have the chance to regroup without leaving anyone behind. It allows faster runners to push themselves without feeling held back, while slower runners never feel abandoned or isolated.

Why Looping Works for All Abilities

1. Everyone Stays Together: The most significant advantage of the looping technique is that it keeps the entire group together, no matter how fast or slow individual members may be. It’s not uncommon for faster runners to outpace those with less experience or those who are newer to running. The looping technique ensures that everyone has a chance to be part of the group, making the experience more social and enjoyable for everyone involved.
2. Fosters Support and Encouragement: When runners loop back to check on their fellow participants, it creates a positive cycle of motivation and encouragement. Slower runners feel more supported and confident knowing that their teammates will be there to cheer them on, while the faster runners are reminded that the community aspect of the run is just as important as the individual goal.
3. Improves Mental and Physical Endurance: For more seasoned runners, the looping technique offers the opportunity to push themselves to the next level of endurance. As they loop back to rejoin the group, they get a brief rest period, allowing them to continue at a higher pace without feeling burnt out. For slower runners, this technique offers the benefit of pacing themselves and not overexerting in the early stages, which helps them build both mental and physical endurance.
4. Promotes Group Bonding: Running as a group provides a sense of camaraderie, but it’s easy to feel left out when you’re running behind. The looping technique removes this barrier by ensuring that everyone runs together. It encourages socializing, creates friendships, and fosters a deeper sense of belonging. The shared experience of running and regrouping together strengthens the bond between all participants.
5. Accommodates Different Training Goals: Every runner has different goals—some are aiming for a personal best, while others are simply trying to improve their fitness. The looping technique makes it possible to accommodate these varied goals in the same session. Faster runners can push their limits without feeling restrained, while slower runners can focus on building their stamina at a pace that feels comfortable.
6. Reduces the Risk of Injury: Running at a pace that is too fast or too slow for your body can increase the risk of injury. The looping technique helps everyone to stay within their personal limits. For beginners or those returning from injury, the more frequent regrouping points allow them to ease into their runs without feeling pressured to keep up. For advanced runners, the technique offers a way to incorporate speed intervals, helping to minimize the risk of overexertion or injury.

So, if you’re looking for a running group that celebrates all abilities, we invite you to join us and experience the power of looping first-hand!