"For every new day, a new running club is born"
I've spent a lot of time researching running clubs, because I'm seeing this stuff everywhere, it's a bit of a ‘subculture’ approach, a very independent approach, a bit along the lines of the D.I.Y. culture.
Some clubs don't want visible brands and sponsors, they create their own, an approach sometimes related to music, food, recreation, a way to share a common passion.
Some are athletes who train as pros, others are simply enthusiasts or people who want to feel part of a specific community.
“It's a way to live peacefully in urban and suburban spaces”
This kind of approach are now seen in the world's biggest cities, it is an international movement; some of the aesthetic and communicative aspects are very fresh and interesting enough to inspire even the aesthetics of the fashion world.
So, are running clubs a trend?
Probably right now yes, they are, but we think it's definitely not a passing trend like so many others, this trend is revolutionising the whole world.
Running clubs are a global phenomenon, uniting people from all walks of life with a shared passion for running. From bustling cities to quiet rural towns, these clubs provide a sense of community, motivation, and camaraderie for runners of all levels.
In major cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, running clubs offer organized group runs that cater to a variety of paces, distances, and goals. Whether it’s a weekly 5K jog or training for a marathon, these clubs foster a supportive environment where runners can connect, share experiences, and improve their fitness. For example, in New York, the New York Road Runners (NYRR) club has become an iconic part of the city's running culture, organizing races, training programs, and community events year-round.
Similarly, in other parts of the world, running clubs serve as hubs of inspiration and encouragement. In Cape Town, South Africa, the “Two Oceans Marathon” running club draws athletes from all over the world to participate in one of the most scenic and challenging races. In Berlin, runners are often found participating in events hosted by the Berlin Running Club, where the emphasis is on both speed and enjoyment.
But running clubs aren’t limited to large cities. In places like rural India, Australia, and Kenya, running clubs have found a foothold in smaller communities. These clubs not only provide a structured outlet for exercise but also serve as a way to bring people together, fostering social bonds that transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. In Kenya, where long-distance running is a celebrated national pastime, local clubs help nurture the next generation of world-class athletes, with a strong emphasis on discipline and community.
Running clubs also play an important role in promoting health and wellness across the globe. With the rise of fitness-conscious populations, more and more clubs are focusing on inclusivity, inviting people of all fitness levels to join in. Many clubs offer training for beginners, host fitness challenges, and create spaces where participants can feel safe and supported in their journey toward better health.
In addition to regular runs, many clubs are expanding their activities to include cross-training sessions, nutrition advice, and wellness workshops, all geared towards helping members achieve their personal fitness goals. The sense of belonging in a running club encourages members to set and meet their personal milestones, whether they’re aiming to run a faster 5K or simply improve their overall physical health.
Ultimately, running clubs across the world serve as powerful communities where people not only push their physical limits but also form lasting friendships and support systems. Whether it’s the thrill of crossing the finish line or the shared experience of a morning run, running clubs continue to inspire and connect people worldwide, proving that the love for running knows no borders.
Below, some of the coolest running clubs in the world:
@runners_of_rome
@cadence_athletics
@furiesrunning
@carbon_athletics
@souplesserunning
@swordsathletics
@division.bpm
@puresportclubs
@irregularpractice
@joliefoulee
@renegade_running
@slashathletique
@crusher_running_club
@velvetrunners
@slowpokes.club
