Running with others has tremendous benefits, from improved performance and motivation to a feeling of community and increased safety on the run. But how can you connect with others who are looking for running buddies? Here are some ways to make running friends and build a supportive network to help you achieve your running goals.
Join a Local Running Group or Club
One fantastic way to meet new running pals is by joining a local running group or club. These groups often have regular group runs and events that can introduce you to a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for running.
To find a running group, start by searching online websites like Meetup, Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), or social media platforms to find clubs in your area. Look for clubs that align with your interests, whether that’s distance running, speed training, trail running, or just a casual group for beginners.
You can also check with your local running specialty store to see if they have a running club or have recommendations for local clubs.
Check out club websites or social media pages to get a sense of their culture, events, and member testimonials. By doing your research upfront, you can narrow down your options and find a club that matches your preferences.
Volunteer at a Local Race
Running in a local race is an obvious way to meet other runners, but you may be even more successful at finding running friends by volunteering at the race. Lots of runners volunteer at races by distributing race numbers and shirts, handing out water at aid stations, and giving out goodies at the finish line.
Whenever I’ve volunteered at races, I’ve been able to chat with other volunteers and connect over our love of running. As you’re passing out cups of Gatorade, you may end up meeting a fellow runner looking for a running partner.
Participate in Virtual Running Challenges and Events
Another creative way to connect with fellow runners is by participating in virtual running challenges and races. These virtual events allow you to engage with runners, share your progress, and even compete against others in a friendly and supportive environment.
Whether you’re looking to push yourself to the next level or simply connect with runners who share your goals, virtual challenges and events can provide a fun and motivating way to make running friends.
Seek Out Runners at Work
Perhaps some of your co-workers are into running? You could start an informal running club and organize pre-work, lunchtime, or post-work runs with fellow runners at your workout. Or, get a team together for a corporate running event. Not only will you gain some running buddies, but you may also get some great networking opportunities by expanding your circle at your workplace.
Use Social Media and Online Platforms
Running groups on platforms like Facebook, Strava, or Meetup are great for connecting with local runners and discovering group runs in your area. These online communities often organize meetups, training sessions, and events that can help you meet expand your circle of running friends.
Additionally, consider using running apps like Nike Run Club or Runtastic to track your progress and connect with other runners who use the same platform. Many of these apps have features that allow you to follow other runners, join challenges, and share your achievements, creating opportunities to interact with runners.
More on Running With Friends:
- Running Etiquette for Group Running
- Tips for Training and Racing With a Running Partner
- Advice for Running With Your Significant Other
Running coach, marathon runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
