The benefits of running include improvements to your cardiovascular health, mood, and, potentially, your lifespan. But if you’re new to the hobby, it can be intimidating to start. So whether you’re trying to get off the couch or prepare for the Broad Street Run, here are some local run clubs to encourage you to keep going.
For the Newbies
If you’re just starting out, you might feel self-conscious about keeping up with the crowd. Philly Turtle Runners, based in University City, is designed for those moving at slower paces.
Philly Slow Girl Run Club meets on Mondays and Saturdays, starting and ending at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can join a group running at a pace of 11-, 12-, or 13-minute miles.
For Those Who Want To Stay Close to Home
If you don’t want to venture too far away from your block, try a neighborhood-based group. West Philly Runners meets on Wednesday nights with the option of running two, four, or six miles. If you live in Fairmount, the Fairmount Running Club meets four times a week with different routes including a loop around the Philadelphia Zoo. Kensington-area residents can join the Harrowgate Run Club, which meets on Tuesday mornings at Harrowgate Park. East Falls Flyers soars through the streets on Monday evenings starting at Falls Bridge. For South Philly residents, Point Breeze Runners meets on Mondays and Saturdays.
For the Beer Runners
Celebrate a run well done over a pint of beer. Run up and down the hills with Manayunk Beer Runners on Mondays starting at Canal View Park. Fishtown Beer Runners meets every Thursday rain or shine. Run & Chug hits up a bar every Wednessday following runs in different parts of the city.
And if you want to skip the drinks altogether, The Dry Run & Sober Social gets together on the first Saturday of each month and ends at a local business.
For the Trail Lovers
Visiting local trails is a great way to get a change of scenery while still keeping up momentum. In Northwest Philly, you can join the Wissahickon Wanderers on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Over in Northeast Philly, Pennypack Trail Runners meets on Saturdays.
For Those Who Want To Celebrate Their Identity
Queer Run provides a safe space for LGBT runners and allies to spring through Rittenhouse, Manayunk, and Center City. Latinas in Motion encourages different forms of movement including running, cycling, and walking. Black Girls Run is a national organization with a mission to motivate women, especially Black women, to stay active.
👟 Did we miss your run club? Let us know your favorite group to run with!
