While professional runners are racing to break records, social runners are there for the party. Wearing neon and sipping beers, they gather together to make new friends and connect with old ones, all under the guise of running marathons. Running was once seen as a nerdy, solo sport, but now social running clubs are revealing how cool and social it can be. Many running clubs began during the pandemic, when people were looking for opportunities to exercise and safely spend time outside with others. Running clubs are popular because running facilitates deep connections. Unlike in most social settings, members see one another exhausted, struggling, and sweaty — a vulnerable combination. People tend to bond quickly, and many a spouse has been found at running club events. There’s no arguing that fitness is better with friends, and running clubs provide fitness, friendship, accountability, support, and — most importantly — consistency.
