While running is largely an individual endeavour, the loneliness epidemic that gripped the world during the COVID-19 lockdown has sparked a growing trend, with social run clubs the newest meeting point for people craving connection, community, accountability, and, in some cases, companionship.
Millennials and Gen Z in particular are using run clubs (and exercise classes and other group activities) to make new social connections.
While a popular activity for weight loss and fitness in the past, people today are running more for the social benefits.
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Moving Together
Often free, these groups allow you to meet new people, make new friends and socialise in a more relaxed setting.
According to the Strava Year In Sport: Trend Report, the “run club is the new nightclub”, findings show that group activities boomed with a 59% increase in running club participation globally in 2024.
From casual group runs and themed events to coffee runs and post-run social events, the desire to move together and connect is growing.
In the Strava survey, 58% of respondents said they made new friends via fitness groups, using these group activities as a social outlet to meet new people while also working out and getting fit.
Importantly, social clubs also help people to feel safer by running in larger groups, which is important in South Africa.
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Digital Detox
Among the digital native Gen Z generation, getting outdoors to run in real life (IRL) is also seen as a way to detox from digital overload, offering new experiences, deeper connections, purpose and presence.
Among Gen Z respondents, nearly one in five also went on a date with someone they met through group exercise activities, according to the Strava survey, and were four times more likely to want to meet people through working out than at a bar.
This trend has given rise to the metaphorical concept of “run clubs are the new dating app”, with the IRL element a key component in tearing down the facades and ChatGPT-generated profiles that can stymie the ability to really know who you’re talking to on an app. The fact that everyone is already there, joining in on a shared passion, is also a great ice-breaker.
Instead of awkward small talk, you now find yourself jogging alongside someone, with the conversation flowing naturally and no awkward silences as the kilometres tick by. There’s no pressure to impress with a perfect outfit or a witty one-liner.
Dating apps are also getting in on the action. For example, Tinder has launched its own running event called SoleMates.
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Lace Up and Log Off
Whether you’re looking to escape the endless scrolling of social media, meet your new people, or simply rediscover the joy of moving your body alongside others, the run club revolution has something for everyone.
It’s time to get out from behind the screen and make real connections. Who knows? Your next great friendship, romantic adventure, or personal breakthrough might just be a 5km run away. So lace up and go find your people, or maybe even your person.
What to expect at your first social run club:
- It is usually free and there is no need to book. Drop-ins are welcome. Try a few and find the one that fits your vibe.
- There is no pretence – all paces and abilities are welcome.
- It’s not about time, it’s about experience, but there are usually different pace groups.
- There’s usually a warm-up and cool-down. Some include stretches, others might end at a coffee shop or restaurant.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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