Where and why did “run clubs” blow up all of a sudden?
What used to be about building community through sport now feels more like a mix of real-life dating apps—just with sneakers and running vests.
David Bennett
COVERGROUND December 12 2024
Back in 1958, a small group of running enthusiasts set the stage for what would become a nationwide movement. They started one of the first official running clubs in the U.S.: the New York Road Runners (NYRR). Their focus was all about competitive running, and they paved the way with big events like the New York City Marathon, creating the blueprint for running clubs everywhere. Fast forward to today, and things look totally different. Modern run clubs, ruled by the power of social media, have swapped the grind of training and competition for cute running reels and runners who make running a half marathon their entire personality. What used to be about building community through sport now feels more like a mix of real-life dating apps—just with sneakers and running vests. Oh yeah, and every dude is shirtless while every woman is rocking shorts that belong in the kids' section at Walmart. These days, it’s less about training for races and more about hashtags, group selfies, and influencer meetups where they make sure their followers know about their upcoming podcast that talks about absolutely nothing meaningful. This trend forced me to ask the question: how and why did running clubs go from cultivating competitive runners to a bunch of people running three miles while begging to get asked out on a date afterward?
Before social media turned running clubs into IRL dating apps, these groups were all about athletic performance and building real community. Take the Atlanta Track Club (ATC), for example. Founded in 1964, it became a big deal in the Southeast by the ‘90s, helping runners get faster with training programs and hosting the Peachtree Road Race, one of the world’s biggest 10Ks. Over in Boston, the Boston Athletic Association (BAA)—famous for the Boston Marathon since 1897—was busy helping competitive runners crush their goals and even chase Olympic dreams. Out west, the Oregon Track Club (OTC) in Eugene was basically an Olympian factory, turning out elite middle- and long-distance runners in a town that lived and breathed track and field. Then there were groups like the San Francisco Road Runners Club (SFRRC) and the Boulder Road Runners (BRR), offering intense training sessions, from speed work to altitude runs, to help serious athletes hit personal bests. These clubs weren’t about hashtags or creating a trendy Instagram reel; they were about showing up, grinding, and pushing your limits. No phones, no influencers just sneakers on the damn pavement.
Running with Social Media
Of course, social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have all played a huge role in the explosion of “run clubs.” These platforms have turned these clubs into online communities where members share their training schedules, achievements, and oh-so-important updates about when they’re running. For the running community, this kind of connection is everything. Take groups like Raw Dawg Run Club, for example. They emphasize that they’re not just a run club but a movement. Though, let’s be real, it’s still unclear exactly what movement they’re leading beyond the fact that, well, they’re running. Over on the West Coast, you’ve got the Pacific Beach Run Club, where it’s less about the miles and more about the vibes. They proudly proclaim they’re “not just a run club” but a social club that happens to run.
For people who are out there breaking records, competing, and pushing themselves to the limit, this can all feel a little off-putting. Let’s be honest, some of these clubs seem more about meeting one-night stands than hitting new personal bests. But you can’t deny that they’re contributing to a growing awareness of health and wellness, especially among younger generations. Running is accessible, it requires minimal equipment, and it can be done pretty much anywhere. Plus, these clubs are often tied to discussions about nutrition, mental health benefits, and cross-training techniques—topics that make running even more appealing.
And if you’re on Instagram like the rest of us, you’ve definitely seen the influencers. You know the ones: the running vests, the Pit Viper sunglasses, and the latest (most expensive) pair of Hokas. They’re out there turning “aesthetic runs” and perfectly curated group photos into a lifestyle we’re all supposed to aspire to. Their posts link running with their social life, notifying all their followers about their upcoming weekend plans in a way that makes the miles look cool. But let’s be real—it often overshadows the original goal of getting better at running. Instead, you’ve got influencers taking selfie videos mid-run, arms raised like they’ve just conquered a marathon, while explaining their morning routine. Congrats, you’ve discovered the perfect pre-run routine before running three miles. Some things are just better kept to yourself.
This isn’t what traditional running was all about. The focus used to be on individual growth and pushing personal limits. Now, there’s a layer of superficiality that’s hard to ignore. And while these run clubs might seem ultra-inclusive on Instagram grids, there’s definitely potential for exclusion. Cliques and groups often form based on follower counts or social status, leaving others feeling left out. So, are modern run clubs losing the core spirit of what they used to be? Or has the game just changed, and it’s time for the rest of us to catch up?
The Future of Run Clubs
So, where do run clubs go from here? It’s clear the movement isn’t slowing down anytime soon, but it’s not all selfies and hashtags either. The future of run clubs will likely strike a balance between their social aspects and athletic roots. While it’s great to see so many people bonding over a shared love for running (or at least pretending to love it for the ‘Gram), there’s room for a renewed focus on performance and personal growth.
At the same time, the social media-driven culture around running isn’t without controversy. Take the case of Matthew Choi, a runner based in Austin, who was recently banned from the New York City Marathon after having his brother and videographer follow him on e-bikes to film his race—most likely for his content on Instagram and YouTube. Incidents like this highlight the tension between using running as a platform for personal branding and respecting the traditional rules of the sport. As the culture evolves, these clashes between old-school values and new-age trends might become more common.
Technology is also bound to play an even bigger role. Apps like Strava and MapMyRun have already become staples for tracking miles and sharing accomplishments, but imagine where it could go from here. Virtual runs and events are already on the rise, making it possible to participate in group runs without leaving your neighborhood—or even your treadmill. As tech gets more advanced, we could see hyper-personalized training programs, AR-enhanced run routes, or even holographic running partners keeping us company on solo runs.
In Conclusion
That said, there’s hope for a return to the roots of running. Not everyone is into the influencer-driven culture, and some runners are craving a more authentic experience. Smaller, grassroots clubs that focus on the simplicity and joy of the sport could rise as a counter-movement. Whether it’s training for a marathon, competing with friends, or just finding people to share a long run with, there’s room for every kind of runner in the diverse running community we’ve built.
Run clubs have transformed drastically from their humble beginnings. What started as small, tight-knit groups focused on competition and community has turned into a global phenomenon, largely thanks to social media. The shift from competition to connection has opened the doors to a wider audience, but it’s fair to wonder if something got lost along the way. For purists, the focus on selfies and social vibes might feel like a betrayal of the sport’s original spirit. For others, though, it’s been a game-changer, making running less intimidating and way more accessible to people who might never have given it a try.
Love it or hate it, running isn’t going anywhere. So, you might as well toss on some sneakers and hit the pavement—whether it’s for the love of the sport, the love of attention, or maybe something in between. It’s a sport (or a hobby) that’s for everyone: the person trying to get in shape or the influencer who’s making running their defining trait. At its core, running has always been about the journey, whatever that may look like for you.