For some people, the idea of lacing up their shoes and heading out on a run is a much-loved solo experience. For others, however, running isn’t about solitude — it’s a social experience. Enter run clubs, which are soaring in popularity all over the globe.
It’s a simple concept: Run clubs are organized groups that meet in order to hit the pavement together. Sometimes these groups train for marathons or other races together, but for many, these clubs are just a fun way to get some exercise.
So … should you join a run club? Here’s why you might want to consider it, from people who love them.
You’ll connect with a running community — no matter your level
Run clubs aren’t just about running — they can also be safe spaces to explore other kinds of communities. The Philadelphia-based group Recovery Run Club offers those dealing with addiction issues a safe space. The Badass Lady Gang, which has run clubs all over the United States and Canada, focuses on building women friendships and body positivity. Besties Run Club, based in Los Angeles, has its home base at a vegan grocer and engages its club in a variety of community activities. (Most importantly, it offers free dairy-free soft-serve to runners.)
Michael Mazzara, who owns HalfMarathon.net, a website that covers running culture, tells Yahoo Life that he joined more than 100 runners participating in “Track Tuesday” at the Brooklyn Track Club. It helped him find other people who shared his passion.
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