For many, running is the perfect solo workout—it’s convenient, requires minimal gear, and comes with no membership fees. But what if occasionally you’d also enjoy running with others, some social connection, or have the chance to learn from more experienced runners? That’s where joining a running club can take your training, motivation, and overall experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, being part of a group can provide support, structure, and inspiration.
If you’ve ever wondered, ‘Should I join a running club?‘—the answer is a resounding yes!
Here’s why.
Quick Look.
Thinking about joining a running club but not sure if it’s for you?
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, a running club can help you boost motivation, improve performance, and make running more fun.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find in this post:
- Improve Your Running – Get structured workouts, expert tips, and train with experienced runners.
- Find a Supportive Community – Running clubs offer friendship, accountability, and group fun.
- Stay Motivated & Accountable – Running with a group keeps you consistent and pushes you to reach new goals.
- Discover New Routes & Races – Explore hidden trails, train for races, and even take part in destination ‘run-cations’.
- Get Expert Advice & Support – Learn about injury prevention, gear recommendations, and training techniques.
Quick Takeaway: Key Answers at a Glance
Short on time? Here’s what you need to know:
- Are running clubs beginner-friendly? Yes! Most welcome all levels, especially recreational running clubs.
- Will I improve my pace and endurance? Absolutely! Clubs offer structured training, expert advice, and support to improve your running.
- How does a club keep me motivated? Having group runs, accountability, and supportive teammates keeps you on track.
- Will I explore new places? Yes! Club members often know scenic trails, parks, and routes you may not discover running alone.
- Do I have to race? No, but if you want to, many clubs train together for events—from fun runs to marathons.
- Is running with a club safer? Yes! Group runs provide extra safety, especially on long-distance or night runs.
- How do I find a running club? Try Parkrun, social media groups, Strava clubs, local running stores, or community centres or sports clubs.
Bottom Line: Running clubs provide motivation, structure, community, and adventure—all while making running more fun!
Ready to take your running to the next level? Scroll up for more details on how joining a running club can help you.
Quick Links.
1. Improve Your Running with Support and Structure.
No matter your current fitness level, a running club will help you improve through structured training, experience, and the power of group motivation—and it can be a lot of fun!
Beginners Welcome – No Need to Be Fast!
Think running clubs are only for elite athletes? Think again! There are plenty of recreational running groups that cater to all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned marathoners.
You’ll find runners at your level, and simply running with them will help you improve your running greatly as they tackle various workouts, paces, and locations. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your distance and pace improves!
Learn from Experienced Runners.
Running clubs are filled with members who have years of experience. Some might be marathoners, trail runners, or simply out to enjoy the group running dynamic. They’ve tried different training workouts, tested gear, and know what works. Learning from them can help you:
- Avoid common running mistakes.
- Improve your form.
- Reduce your risk of injury.
Most experienced runners love sharing their knowledge and encouraging others—so don’t hesitate to ask questions!
Structured Workouts to Boost Performance.
A major perk of joining a running club is access to structured training sessions. These often include various exercises, intensities, and even locations.
Some of the workouts running club members get to participate in include:
- Intervals.
- Hill or stair running.
- Sprinting.
- Set courses.
- Relays.
- Long-distance running.
- Fun runs like the Fartlek run, and many more.
This variety keeps things exciting and challenges your body in ways that solo runs often don’t. Plus, the group setting will push you to go that little bit harder than you might running alone!
No matter what your level is, finding a group of like-minded people to hang out with can be a great way to learn, practice, improve, and gain more pleasure from your running.
TIP: Track Your Progress: Keep a running journal or use an app to log your workouts. Seeing your improvements over time can boost motivation and highlight areas for further growth. Also, you can follow many of your fellow running club members on Strava where they log all their running, including the running club workouts, for even more motivation and social connection.
2. Find a Community & Make Lifelong Friends.
Running clubs are more than just workout groups—they’re communities of like-minded people who share a passion for running, and the friendships formed here often extend beyond just the running sessions.
Enjoy the Social Side of Running.
Post-run coffee meetups, weekend events, and even participating in running events in other locations together, make being part of a club extra special. It’s a chance to enjoy different activities with your running mates beyond just working out together.
Many runners say their group sessions become the highlight of their week, I know this is true for me, our running club Thursday nights sessions are something I look forward to all week. The social engagement, the laughter, and banter, plus the solid workout, makes these running club sessions extra special.
Connect on Strava & Beyond
Running clubs also mean more Strava friends to cheer you on, new training buddies for long runs, or even someone to run with in an upcoming race. The encouragement from the other members of your running club can boost your motivation, help you stay accountable, and push you to achieve goals you might not attempt alone.
Running may not be a team sport like football, but joining a running group creates a strong sense of camaraderie. The shared motivation, support, and collective energy foster a team-like spirit, making group runs more enjoyable, dynamic, and a great place to build lasting friendships.
TIP: Join Your Local Parkrun for a Club-Like Experience. Your local Parkrun is also a fantastic running-club-like experience! These free, weekly 5K events provide a welcoming community, consistent group runs, and a chance to experience a race-like atmosphere without the pressure. You’ll meet like-minded runners, improve your pacing, and even work towards personal bests—all while enjoying the camaraderie of a running group. Plus, many Parkrunners stay for post-run coffee, making it a great way to build friendships and stay motivated.
3. Stay Motivated & Accountable
Joining a running group is a great way to boost your motivation and help you stay accountable, especially if you find it challenging to stay on track when running solo.
Here’s why:
Consistency is Key.
Let’s be honest—some days, motivation can be low. But when you know your running club is expecting you, it’s much harder to skip a session, it feels like a bit of an obligation to show up. Plus, you know that once you turn up, you’ll enjoy the run, feel energised, and leave with a boost in self-pride, and a feeling of accomplishment.
Make your running club sessions a non-negotiable appointment, in this way you build solid consistency, which is key to achieving your goals.
The accountability factor of a running club helps you stay committed to your goals, whether you’re training for a 5K, a marathon, or simply running for fitness. By making it non-negotiable, you are not giving yourself any ‘outs’ because of bad weather, lack of motivation, or some other reason.
Find Your Running Inspiration.
Inspiration is motivating! Every running club has inspirational members who have accomplished incredible triumphs, motivating you to push your limits and strive for your own personal best. Watching them smash their goals might just give you the motivation to set bigger ones for yourself!
As we’ve explored, your running club sessions are a powerful way to enhance motivation and accountability, which aligns perfectly with your personal running goals and reasons for lacing up.
For extra support, grab my free downloadable goal-setting guide, and if you’re looking for more motivation tips and strategies, check out my post 7 Ways to Stay Motivated to Run.
TIP: Find an Accountability Partner. Pair up with a fellow club member who shares similar goals and check in on each other’s progress regularly. Whether it’s committing to weekly runs and club sessions, sharing training updates, or simply sending a motivational message on tough days, having someone to support and challenge you can make all the difference. An accountability partner keeps you motivated, pushes you to stay consistent, and makes running even more enjoyable!
4. Discover New Routes & Races: Take Your Running Adventures to the Next Level.
One of the biggest perks of joining a running club is the opportunity to explore new running locations and take part in exciting events as a group. Whether you’re uncovering scenic trails, pushing your limits in races, or enjoying fun-runs together, running clubs open the door to experiences you might never have considered on your own.
Explore Hidden Trails and Scenic Routes.
Tired of running the same streets? Long-time club members often know the best local trails, parks, and hidden routes that they regularly run. It’s always exciting to try somewhere new, your club mates may show you a route you never knew existed, even in your own town.
From peaceful bush tracks, mountain trails, city streets and parks, to scenic coastal routes, running in new these new locations with your fellow running group members keeps training exciting and challenging.
Plus, running on different terrains—such as grass, trails, and hills—helps strengthen different muscle groups, making you a stronger and more well-rounded runner.
Race Day is Better With a Group.
Most running clubs actively participate in local and national races, from 5K Parkruns and fun runs, to half-marathons, marathons, obstacle course races, and even ultra-marathons. Running with a group transforms race day from a solo challenge into a supportive, and inclusive experience.
Benefits of racing with your club:
- Less Intimidating: Having club mates around eases race-day nerves, especially if you’re new to competing.
- Built-In Motivation: Training together keeps you accountable and inspired to hit your goals.
- Stronger Performance: The energy of your club and supporters can help you push through mental and physical barriers.
- More Fun: Sharing the highs and lows of race day with friends makes the entire experience more rewarding.
New to racing? Try signing up for a shorter distance event with your club members and use it as a training run for your longer distance race goals—you’ll benefit from their experience, encouragement, and post-race celebrations!
Run-cations: Travel, Run and Explore.
One of the most exciting aspects of being in a running club is the opportunity for ‘run-cations’—travelling to different cities, national parks, or even countries to run races together.
Imagine running a beachside marathon in Queensland, tackling a Blue Mountains National Park trail, or even travelling overseas together for a major city event like the New York or Hong Kong Marathons! These experiences combine the thrill of racing with the adventure of travel, offering unforgettable memories with your running mates.
A ‘run-cation’ with your running group often includes:
- Group accommodations (hotels, camping, or Airbnb stays).
- Post-run meals, local dining experiences and celebrations.
- Sightseeing and exploring new places together.
As we often say at RMWA—’The best way to see the world is on two feet!’
Beyond Running: Try Other Sports.
Running clubs often extend beyond running—many members participate in other activities such as Cross-Training, or other Outdoor Sports like:
- Cycling & mountain biking.
- Hiking & trekking.
- Kayaking & paddle boarding.
- Swimming.
- Obstacle course races such as a Tough Mudder event.
Many of your running club friends will have experience with cross-training and can introduce you to new workouts or guide you through training sessions—helping you try activities you might never have attempted on your own.
DID YOU KNOW: Many elite runners incorporate trail running, cycling, weight training, and swimming into their training to improve endurance, prevent injuries, and build overall strength? Joining a running club can help you explore these cross-training benefits!
5. Get Expert Help, Advice & Support.
When you’re part of a running club, you’re never alone in your desire to improve your knowledge, training, fitness and health.
Whether you need training advice, injury prevention tips, or gear recommendations, your fellow club members have the experience and insights to help you along the way.
From technique tweaks to finding the right running shoes, the knowledge shared within a running club can boost your progress and help you avoid common mistakes. Let’s explore the ways your club can support your running journey.
Master Your Training & Running Technique.
If you’re unsure about pacing, form, or the different types of running workouts, your club’s more experienced runners and coaches can provide valuable guidance to help you run more efficiently and avoid injury.
- Need help with pacing for long runs or races?
- Want to refine your running form?
- Curious about different training styles or workouts like fartleks, strides, and intervals?
Your club mates and coaches can answer these questions and help you fine-tune your training approach to improve pace, endurance, and efficiency.
Stay Injury-Free & Recover Faster.
Running injuries can be frustrating, but your fellow club members can offer practical advice on injury prevention and recovery based on their own experience, including:
- Proper warm-ups & cool-downs to prevent muscle strain.
- The best stretching and mobility exercises to keep you flexible and running freely.
- Training tips to avoid overuse injuries.
- How to recognise and treat running injuries to recover faster.
And if an injury does happen, your group members can often recommend trusted physiotherapists, sports massage therapists, and recovery specialists—saving you the trial and error of finding the right practitioner.
Get the Best Running Gear Recommendations.
With so many shoes, watches, and running gadgets available, choosing the right gear can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, your running club members have likely tested everything and can give you honest recommendations based on real experience.
- Best running shoes for your foot type, gait, and the type of running you will be doing. However, we highly recommend buying your running shoes from a specialist running store, where experts can analyse your foot type and gait to ensure you get the best shoes for your needs.
- GPS watches & apps for tracking runs.
- Compression gear & recovery tools to enhance performance.
- Hydration and fuelling strategies for long-distance running.
Before investing in expensive gear, ask your club mates—they’ve probably already figured out what works (and what doesn’t)!
Run Safer With a Group.
Running alone, especially at night, or on isolated trails, can sometimes feel unsafe. Joining a running club gives you peace of mind knowing you’re not alone. Whether it’s evening runs, long trail routes, or challenging terrains, having a group around makes running safer and more enjoyable.
Plus, in case of an emergency—like an injury or feeling unwell mid-run—other group members are there to offer assistance and support.
TIP: When heading out for a run—especially on long routes or solo sessions—it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Consider wearing an ID bracelet (example) or carrying a small emergency card with your name, emergency contact, and any essential medical details (e.g., allergies, blood type, or health conditions). Many running watches and phone apps also allow you to store emergency info. A simple precaution like this ensures that, in case of an accident or illness, first responders or your fellow club runners can quickly access the information they need to help you.
Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds.
Running is one of the most flexible sports—you can enjoy it solo or join a group for motivation, structure, and community. Many runners find that a mix of both provides the perfect balance, I know this is true for me—solo runs offer personal space, while club sessions bring encouragement, fun, and new challenges.
So, should you join a running club? Absolutely! If you want to improve your running, meet great people, stay motivated, and discover new running experiences, a club can provide all those benefits.
Worried You’re Not Fast Enough? Don’t Be!
Many runners hesitate to join a club because they worry they’re too slow or not experienced enough—but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Most recreational running clubs cater to all abilities, from beginners to seasoned marathoners.
For example, in my own club, we have a “no one left behind” policy, ensuring every runner, no matter their pace, feels included and supported.
So, whether you’re aiming to complete your first 5K, training for a marathon, or simply want to work out with friends for the pure enjoyment of it, there’s a place for you in a running club.
How to Find a Running Club Near You.
Ready to take the leap? Here’s how to find a running club in your area:
- Check out local Parkruns — A great way to meet other runners, many of whom will be members of a running club, and get a feel for group running.
- Search on social media platforms — Many clubs have active online communities.
- Ask at your local running or sports store — Staff often know of clubs and group runs.
- Look through running event websites — Many races have affiliated clubs.
- Running apps or websites — Platforms like Strava or Garmin Connect.
- Community Centres or Sports Clubs — Many of these organisations organise running clubs.
- Universities or colleges — Some are for students, alumni, or open to the public.
- Workplace running groups — Some large organisations have sports clubs, running groups or even gyms.
- Charity running teams — Many charities organise running clubs to raise money.
- Search engine or AI search — These can be a great resource for finding a running club in your area or one that caters specifically to your needs.
Final Thoughts: Why Not Give It a Try?
At the start of this post, we talked about how running isn’t traditionally a team sport. But as we’ve seen, running with a group gives you the best of both worlds—the independence of running on your own or with the support and motivation of a club.
It doesn’t have to be one or the other—mixing solo runs with club sessions can keep your training fresh, fun, rewarding, and offers great variety.
Have you joined a running club? Thinking about it? Let me know in the comments your experiences, I’d love to hear about how this worked out for you.
Run strong
Steve
FAQ’s: Benefits of Joining a Running Club.
Are running clubs only for fast or experienced runners?
No! Most running clubs welcome all abilities, from beginners to experienced marathoners. Many clubs even have different pace groups, ensuring that every runner is supported, no matter their pace.
How much does it cost to join a running club?
It varies—many informal or recreational groups are free, while structured running clubs may have a small membership fee to cover venue costs, insurance, event organisation, or even coaching.
Will I have to race if I join a running club?
Not at all! While many running clubs participate in races, there’s no pressure to compete. You can simply enjoy the social runs, training sessions, and support. You can join club members who are training for an event and enjoy the benefits of race-focused workouts, motivation, and structured training—even if you don’t plan to compete.
What if I have social anxiety—will I feel comfortable in a running club?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about joining a group, but running clubs are usually welcoming and inclusive. Many runners start with solo running to build a little confidence and then make the step of joining a running club. You can also reach out to the club beforehand with your concerns or apprehensions, it’s likely they’ll be happy to support you.
Do running clubs cater to older runners or specific age groups?
Most recreational clubs welcome runners of all ages, and some even have specific groups for masters runners, seniors, or juniors. If you’re looking for a club with a particular age focus, check their website or contact them directly.
What if I can’t commit to a set schedule?
That’s totally fine! Most running clubs allow you to join in whenever it suits you, so you don’t have to commit to every session. Some clubs also have flexible training groups where you can join at different times, some even have multiple sessions per week, which will allow you more opportunities to attend.
Do I need special gear to join a running club?
No, but having proper running shoes is essential for comfort and injury prevention. Other gear like a running watch, compression gear, or moisture-wicking clothing may be useful depending on your goals, but they’re not required to start. Some clubs may have shirts or caps with the club logo printed on them, which you can buy if you wish.
This article is for information purposes only and is not a recommendation to act on any of its content. It is always recommended you consult your healthcare practitioner before engaging in any activity that may affect your health.
