The trick to getting good running tips is to spend time where the runners congregate. Some of the best places to get that advice are by going to local stores or clubs and seeking out experts in your own community.
Specialized stores
Your local athletic store is a good place to learn new things or get advice because that’s where you’ll find people who know their trade. The stores are often owned by an accomplished athlete and likely provide training for their employees.
The folks at your local athletic store will know what’s going on in the area and will usually have the latest literature for any local event. Many stores will also host guest speakers and serve as a base to run clubs and training programs.
Local clubs and teams
Finding a local club or local team can be difficult depending on where you live. If you can find one in the vicinity, I highly recommend meeting with them. Most clubs don’t mind new people coming in for a workout or two, even if they don’t join. Once you’ve gotten to know some of the people in the club, you may want to join and train with them regularly. Many clubs and teams will also have a coach or two who can help you.
Your local streets
Go running. You never know who you may run into. I have seen an Olympic gold medalist run through my area on many occasions, and once met my wife while she was running on a Wednesday night. Feel free to strike up a conversation if she catches up with someone; You never know if they have something to share that you don’t know yet.
Is it so?
You’ll notice that I haven’t included anything online on this list. I think the internet and magazines are great places to learn about your sport, but face-to-face interaction is important and shouldn’t be ignored.
Also, keep in mind that while you’re looking for people whose brains you can pick from, someone else might be looking for yours. Do not be stingy; If someone asks a question, feel free to strike up a conversation and share what they know. No matter what the difference in your running abilities, there can almost always be a two-way knowledge exchange that can satisfy both parties.
If someone isn’t sociable or rude when you try to talk to them, just move on. A good 90% of the time you won’t have any trouble chatting with someone, but even runners can be pills at times. Most people are friendly and approachable, so when you find one who isn’t, move on and don’t let them bother you.