What is a Run Club?
Run clubs are popping up all around the country, much like how the game of pickleball took over local tennis courts and indoor gyms the last few years. Run clubs are organizations—both state-wide and locally in your nearest town—that gather (mostly on a weekly basis) and run together. Distances may vary depending on the day, the weather, and whoever the person running the club is, but run clubs consist of runners of all different fitness levels. From the most experienced runners that have taken on marathons, to those that are just breaking in their first pair of running shoes, run clubs are all-inclusive. That means that all paces are welcomed, and nobody is left behind.
Benefits of Joining a Run Club
Besides getting a good workout in and staying active, there’s also other benefits from joining a run club. Here’s a breakdown of a few:
Being Around Likeminded People: One of the benefits you’ll find in any kind of group fitness setting, is the fact that everyone there is in it together. Everyone pushes through that HIIT class you take, embracing the comradery that comes with the post-workout sweat and the “why do we do this to ourselves?” joking commentary. The same goes with something like a run club. No matter your fitness level or pace, everyone is working towards completing the distance set for that day’s run. You do it together, pushing each other to get the work done and celebrating the victory of getting to the finish line. Keeping yourself motivated is one of the most important aspects within a fitness journey, and having those around you that push for success helps keep that motivation active.
They’re Great for Beginners: Getting into something new, whether it’s fitness-related or not, can be a challenging experience. It can take a lot of mental pushing and pulling to finally convince yourself to get into something you’ve never done before. For those just starting in running, getting involved in a run club is a great start. Since you’re around people of all different running experience, you’re able to get different viewpoints on what their journeys have been like, and how you can better set yourself up for success. How many miles do they run per week? What does an average progression between events like a 5K, to an 8K, a 10K, and so on look like? Shoe recommendations? Best stretches both pre- and post-run? There’s a plethora of information that you can find online, for sure, but there’s that hidden gold you find talking to those within your special interests that really help mold how you can go about things for yourself.
Finding a Varied Routine for Yourself. Run clubs thrive on scheduling, but that doesn’t mean that every run is going to be the same. Some days you might meet at a different location. Others might be meeting at a different time. You might see a change in mileage, too. Varied routines help you stay engaged and keep you on your toes. They work because they add a bit of a spark to something that, at times, might feel a bit repetitive. Running different routes, mixing in tempo runs and other running styles, and even feeling the difference between running at the top of the morning versus when the sun begins to set, are just a few ways that run clubs keep members on their toes.
Socialization!: Run clubs help make the act of running, well, more fun. Talk to people when you’re running. Make new friends. See what your run club likes to do post-workout, as some will head for a run and then gather at a place like a coffee shop to socialize when the work is done. If you’re new to an area or looking to branch out a bit more in a place you’ve called home for a while, run clubs can offer you a boost in your social game.
Essential Gear for Running
If you’re just getting into running, these are a few things that’ll be pivotal in not only keeping you comfortable when working out, but helping you stay on-track and coming back for more.
The Right Running Shoes
The right pair of running shoes can make or break your entire running experience. When buying running shoes, here are three important things to consider:
What are your running goals?
What foot shape do you have and how does your foot strike the ground?
Where do you plan on running, and how challenging will the terrain be?
There’s a huge difference between a neutral running shoe and a running shoe specifically tailored for someone with pronation or stability concerns. If you’re in the market for your first pair of running shoes, making sure they fit properly and having a gait analysis is a great step to take. Once you’ve gone through your personal goals, as well as gait, grip, and more, then you should be in a better position to make a choice on shoes.
Accessories Make a Difference
Of course, what you’ve got laced up on your feet is going to help with your running performance. But it’s what else you’ve brought to the table that’ll really push you to not just finish a run, but stay comfortable and prepared.
Sunglasses: The sun’s going to keep its eyes on yours. Making sure you’ve got the right pair of running sunglasses can make or break your focus during a run. Look for running sunglasses that offer things like rubber nose pads that keep them from slipping off your nose and face when you break a sweat. Also look for sunglasses that protect against UVA/B rays.
Socks: Moisture-wicking and breathability are a few things to look for in your running socks. Look for those with seamless construction, too, as they help reduce chafing and bunching. This gives you less distractions, and offers added comfort.
Hats: Keeping your head cool goes a long way during a run. Look for hats that have breathable features like perforations and sweatbands inside that absorb sweat and keep you cool. Check for those that have things like reflective details, too, to provide others with better visibility when they see you during a time of day when sunlight isn’t at its best.
Belts/vests: When you run, you’re going to want to keep your belongings secure, yet away from being a distraction stride after stride. Things like a run belt or vest should come with secure zippers that keep your keys, wallet, phone, and/or other personal items safe. It’s important to find a belt or vest that avoids bulk, too, as you don’t want the added weight and the constant shuffling of keys or other items to weigh you down and distract you during a run.
All About the Clothing
Just like any other aspect of fitness, what you’ve got on your back matters. When it comes to running, having sweat-wicking clothing that dries fast and stays cool? Well, that’s your best friend. You can find our best tips for clothing and running during both the Summer and Winter seasons, as well as an entire catalog of running tips to further help your journey stride for stride.
How to Find the Right Run Club
You can find local run clubs through searches on social media, and you can check out sources like the Road Runners Club of America to find state-wide clubs, too. It’s worth noting that some run clubs might charge a membership fee, while others don’t. It’s important to get in contact with someone that runs the club you’re looking to join and ask about potential costs, scheduling, and what to expect on your first run with them if you do join.