If you live in the greater Los Angeles area, you may know someone who is in a run club. Joining a run club is a great way to socialize, feel a sense of community, and work out in safety. Sometimes, there are fun brand collaborations with the run club where you can get free swag, discounts, and more.
Is joining a run club a new alternative to dating apps? I would say no—don’t join a run club with the intention of flirting with people. Just like the gym, most people don’t want to be hassled and harassed like that. Go, be casual, and if you happen to connect with someone at a deeper level, good for you! Have some boundaries and respect other people’s boundaries. Nothing breaks a group up more than drama.
Where to Find a Run Club
One of my favorite go-to centralized schedules for run clubs in Los Angeles is LA Running Connoisseur – this website has all of the run clubs along with their schedule, where to meet, and socials. If you follow their Instagram, they post daily stories of run clubs and special events happening the next day. There are MULTIPLE run clubs meeting daily all over LA.
If you don’t live in LA, you can always look up run clubs around your area on Google or Instagram.
Lombardy Run Club
Run Club Tips & Tricks
I started going to the run club earlier this year, and it has been a worthwhile experience. I am so happy to see my endurance improving every week and getting to know more people. If you’re looking to join a run club, here are some tips and tricks to get you situated:
- Strava: Strava is one of the most popular apps where run clubs post their trails, and users can track and share their fitness activities. Most cool features are within the paid subscription segment, but at least you could see how well you did over time, elevation, and who you ran with. I love that Strava integrates with the Oura Ring, so I don’t need to open two different apps to track the same workout. Know how to read the route map in case you get lost.
- Invest in Running Shoes: The worst thing you can do to yourself is wear improper running shoes and strain your feet/legs because of them. Spend some money and get yourself nice running shoes, which will motivate you to use them as intended while protecting your body. Take care of your body because the older you get, the easier it is to get injured and the longer it takes to heal.
- Learn How to Run Properly: The best thing about being in a run club is consulting with other runners and learning from them. Most people want to be helpful. Learn how to breathe while running, have good form, and prevent body strains.
- What to Bring With You: Fanny packs are back, so stuff your keys, wallet, AirPods, and maybe a small bottle of water with you while you run. My favorite? The Lululemon City Adventurer Belt Bag.
- Hydration Vest: This is honestly not necessary for most run club activities as people only bring a hydration vest for longer runs. If you feel the need to for any reason, you do you, boo! If you want, you can pack an energy gel for halfway through the run.
- Running Sunglasses: This is great for sunny days. Running sunglasses are different in that they do the job of protecting your eyes, but if you happen to drop them, it shouldn’t hurt like dropping Chanel Sunglasses.
- Know the Pacers: Know who the lead, middle, and back pacers are. If you do get lost, you know who to follow to the finish line.
- Good Sportsmanship: It’s okay to be shy, but it’s also great to say good job to those who finish around you. High five, fist bump, or whatever it is.
- Avoid Group Politics: Run clubs are for fun, not for competition. People are trying to work out, not strive to have a better run club than somebody else. It’s not that deep.
- Remember Your Running Goal: It’s not about being the fastest person there but being better than your previous performances. If you’re trying to finish a 5k without stopping, go one step at a time.
Most run clubs are free, but some run clubs have dues. Check them out and see what fits your vibe better. It’s okay to try out different run clubs. You don’t owe anyone your loyalty. All that matters is to show up and run what you can. I always try to encourage my friends to go, and showing up is honestly the biggest effort. It’s okay if you don’t run at the same pace as your friend. Go at your own pace and have fun.
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