How Running Clubs Might Be The Answer To Finding Connection And Beating Stress

Running is an easy form of exercise to start. You can run almost anywhere and don’t need much, just a good pair of sneakers. That’s probably why over 48 million people in the United States went running or jogging at least once in 2023.

The challenge with running is that it can be difficult to stay consistent. I completed my first 5K race this past May, and to be honest, running can become painful and boring. Those challenges make it easy to skip a day or two which then makes it easier to give up. But giving up or being inconsistent means you lose out on the benefits of running.

According to Livestrong, about 75% of women runners run or jog for four or more hours weekly. It’s a significant time commitment that requires a high level of motivation and persistence. Not everyone is comfortable training so much alone though. Running clubs can offer the support you need to keep training while also providing several health benefits. Read on to learn more.

It’s well-documented that running has a positive effect on your mental health. What may come as a surprise is that joining a running club can increase these positive effects. 

Improved mood: Habitual runners have been found to have higher levels of psychological well-being. For anyone who has ever experienced a runner’s high, you know that it feels great. The exercise-induced chemicals your body releases make you feel calmer, more relaxed, and pretty good about yourself. By joining a running club, you have weekly opportunities to train and improve your mood at the same time.

Lower levels of depression and anxiety: A 2023 study revealed that group running has similar effects to antidepressants in treating depression and anxiety disorders. With over 32% of adults in the U.S. reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression, running as part of a club is a good way to release stress and relieve these symptoms.

Safety, support, and community: According to Strava’s 2023 Year in Sport Report, runners are 83% more likely to achieve personal records when they run in groups. A running club provides you with a social network. You are surrounded by like-minded people who can offer you assistance, companionship, advice, and encouragement. This creates an environment where you are more likely to stay motivated.

Any exercise is good for your physical health but running has an impact on most of your body besides being great cardio. Participating in a running club leans into that.

Elevated health: The same 2023 study found that group running significantly improved cardiovascular health, blood pressure, weight, and waist circumference. Weekly runs with a club increase your heart and lung function, which leads to more calories burned and a leaner body. Your heart gets stronger and more efficient from all the cardio, which positively affects your blood pressure. 

Strength, speed, and endurance: The more you practice something, the better you get at it. With a running club, you push yourself harder because you have an encouraging support system. If you feel tired during a solo run, it’s much easier to slow down or stop because there’s no one there to motivate you. On top of that, you benefit from the experience of your group and the running coach’s advice. All this makes you stronger and faster, with greater stamina.

Whether you’re a new runner or have several races under your belt, there are running clubs for everyone. You can find clubs focused on having fun and feeling good and others that prioritize increasing running speed and stamina; the options are endless. You can find local running clubs through the Road Runners Club of America. If you prefer a virtual running club, Strava has many options but you can also look into Running Woman, Moms on the Run, and the Badass Lady Gang (they also offer in-person runs in several cities).