How to Find a Running Group

A significant percentage of runs are done alone, according to data collected by apps such as Strava. For many, it’s because this is an opportunity to have an hour to themselves, and to run when they want, where they want, at their own pace and listening to their own tunes. Sometimes it’s out of convenience: you’ve got some time, so lace up the sneaks and pop out for a quick one.

But many runners also like to run with a friend or in a group. Even if it’s only occasionally. For those who would like to find a group to run with, this article is an overview of how to find the right type of running group to suit your purpose. 

First, Define Your Purpose

Runners seek out groups for different purposes. Note these aren’t mutually exclusive! Some like to run with a partner or group for safety. Sometimes it’s a friend or running partner, and sometimes it’s a running group that meets regularly. In addition to the usual reasons often cited for safety, running at night tends to be another draw for groups. 

The majority of runners seek out groups for the social or community aspect. Since running is so often a solitary activity, running with a group can be a refreshing change of pace (pun intentional!). It’s fun to meet other runners to discuss favorite routes, gear, training plans, or upcoming running events. 

Some running groups have a post-run social aspect, such as going for coffee (for those weekend mornings!) or going out for a beer (for the evening running groups). And in a world where singles are increasingly disenchanted with dating apps, there’s been a recent trend of running groups ‘becoming the new Tinder’!

The third main purpose of running groups is for training. These are the groups that tend to be more established. They meet regularly, and might be focused on training for a particular event, such as an upcoming marathon, or in improving one’s running pace or running health. A more hard-core training group might even meet a few times a week, each time with a different focus, such as distance, pace, intervals, and so on. 

Note that the training-oriented running groups might require a fee or membership. Some social group runs might require registration in advance. 

Strategies for Finding a Running Group

This section is focused on strategies for finding a running group in the area where you live. It’s the type of group that you might start running with regularly if it meets your criteria. 

Using a simple Google or AI search can be a remarkably effective way to start in your search for a running group! Type  ‘Find Running Group’ [or Group Run’] in XX City’ will yield a first wave of results that you can use to find a running group. You might also use the keyword ‘training’ if that’s what you’re looking for. 

Some of the popular running apps have great lists of running groups or clubs. On Strava, for example, go to the Clubs tab under Dashboard, and then filter your search by activity and location. Nike Run Club is another popular option. They do list group runs, and also have options for finding a running partner in your area. 

Many running stores also host or organize group runs. Search for the leading indy running stores in your area and see if they have group runs. Larger chains such as Fleet Feet in the United States, have regular group runs at many of their stores. Some Fleet Feet stores have separate groups/times for ‘training runs’ (which you might have to join), and weekly ‘fun runs’.  In Canada, the popular Running Room chain of stores has group runs at a set time of 6pm – 7:15pm every Wednesday at many of their stores. 

Finding a Running Group When Traveling

A great place to start when searching for group runs when traveling is the Great Runs website! On the location home page (for example, Portland, Maine), click on the ‘Stores and Group Runs’ tab. 

In North America, the local running store is usually a good bet for finding a group run. These running groups tend to be more casual and don’t require a membership. 

A great organization to know about is Parkrun. Parkruns are free, organized 5k group runs that happen at the same location every Saturday at 9am or 9:30 am, depending on country/location. Parkruns exist in many cities in the United States, but are especially prevalent in Europe. 

In many countries in Asia, notably India and China, there are ‘ExPat’ running groups. We also find that in many countries outside North America, Facebook is a more common way of finding a running group. Be sure to check that the group is still active when searching! 

And one unique international running group to know about is Hash House Harriers, whose tagline is “The Drinking Club with a Running Problem”. They have group runs all over the world. And their website looks like the 1990s just called…

Organized running tours are becoming increasingly popular. It’s like a walking tour, but for running!  You can find running tours in many major cities, worldwide. Usually, these tours are customized, in the sense that you arrange to meet your guide at a designated place for a designated route. One of the best running tour companies is Go!Running Tours, which does fantastic tours in 70+ cities worldwide. PRO TIP: Use the Code GREATRUNS10 for a 10% discount with Go! Running Tours. 

Best of luck in finding your optimal group running experience!