The Wellness Edit: the rise of run clubs

As with most trends, the more people who join, the more exposure it gains on social media until a large community has been built. This was the same with running where the growing trend across social media has created an online community for advice, making friends, and feeling involved in something that can often be a solo activity. However, the running trend has been especially different because this community has expanded so much that run clubs have been popping up everywhere. Running groups are nothing new, but the power of social media and fitness companies getting involved has turned them into a fast-growing trend.

Beyond improving physical fitness, run clubs also foster a sense of belonging, which can be especially valuable in combating feelings of isolation

Run clubs have always been popular because they offer a community feel for a solo activity and can be great motivation for hitting personal goals regarding distance and pace. Additionally, these groups can be a way to challenge ourselves by meeting new people and pushing to match other runners’ paces. Beyond improving physical fitness, run clubs also foster a sense of belonging, which can be especially valuable in combating feelings of isolation.

What has changed is the mindset around running. Whereas previously run clubs may have simply been a group going on runs, they have become a running event where companies sponsor the event and tickets sell out quickly. GymShark, one of the fastest growing fitness companies, has created its own run club event in London and Birmingham whilst companies like Runna consistently sponsor events and creators to take part and engage the public. Many clubs host events like charity runs or races, providing members opportunities to contribute to meaningful causes. They also often incorporate social activities, such as group outings or post-run coffee meet-ups, making the experience enjoyable both on and off the track.

Run clubs are a great community event to be involved in and although many large-scale ones are sponsored, it’s also very easy to find a small local club to join

Aside from the obvious fitness benefits, the community feel, and the motivation that run clubs can bring, one of the most unexpected aspects of the trend is the idea that run clubs are the new dating apps – a statement that seems to be thrown around more and more across social media. As with all group events, it’s inevitable that getting to know people is likely to form some long-lasting relationships and this is even more likely when individuals pursue hobbies together and achieve goals. These run clubs showcase desirable traits in individuals such as motivation and passion for a hobby which can be attractive to those looking for a partner. However, does this change in mindset towards run clubs also alter how people behave at them? If more people are signing up because they believe they might find a partner then does this alter the authenticity of interactions and does it matter if the purpose of these run clubs changes?

Run clubs are a great community event to be involved in and although many large-scale ones are sponsored, it’s also very easy to find a small local club to join and make friends. If you enjoy running but don’t have anyone to run with or simply want to start a new hobby, run clubs might be the way to go!