From 5Ks to ultramarathons, camaraderie ties it all together.
The power of running knows no bounds. Lately, one of the oldest (and most accessible) sports in the world experienced a renaissance of sorts due in large part to pandemic-era lockdowns, which thrust folks out of isolation, into the streets, and far beyond. If it seems like everyone and their mother is out there pounding the pavement, you wouldn’t be wrong—according to a recent study by RunRepeat, roughly 29% of runners surveyed began their journey during the pandemic.
So, where are these runners now? What began as a solitary pursuit for many has evolved into a community-driven endeavor, with like-minded athletes seeking to forge connections beyond just logging miles, PRs, and kudos. In a society centered around social interaction, it's no surprise that these aspirations coalesced into the modern run club we know today.
As the popularity of clubs has grown and isolation wanes, interest in setting lofty goals, like completing a marathon or even an ultramarathon, has flourished. What was once a singular struggle has become a shared experience that only other borderline masochists can relate to—how else do you make a Saturday 18-mile long run more enjoyable?
That’s why CamelBak challenged three global run crews to push past their limits and put its latest hydration vest to the test. Using cutting-edge technology, the Apex Pro Run Vest was meticulously refined through hundreds of miles and able to withstand the harshest race conditions. It’s the perfect training partner for both new and seasoned runners alike, and with the integration of RECCO® radar search technology, it instills confidence in those venturing into unfamiliar terrain.
“We’ve seen a growing interest and rise in participation in the ultra-running community,” explains CamelBak senior manager Tim Perry, “so adding a layer of safety for those heading into remote environments with an essential piece of equipment made a lot of sense to us.”
The sight of runners dominating sidewalks and bike paths in large cities like Los Angeles is becoming commonplace. For Koreatown Run Club, this phenomenon represents a reclaiming of their bustling streets, providing a haven for people of color to engage in physical activity. ”Crew culture used to be an act of rebellion. You didn’t see people that looked like us out running like this,” explains co-founder Duy Nguyen. "Our approach brought folks in to try it out. At the end of the day, it’s great because we’re able to share what the running community can do for you physically and mentally."
Creating that sense of belonging is central to many run clubs' missions. What began as a casual group chat among friends for trail runs in London blossomed into Ultra Black Running, a club supporting Black women and gender non-conforming folks interested in off-road running. "[UBR] emerged from negative experiences during lockdown runs,” explains founder Dora Atim. “I wanted to give back to the sport I love and create a space where Black women and nonbinary individuals feel represented in the outdoors."
Building a community is one thing, but getting people to show up is another. That’s why many run clubs, like KRC and UBR, cater to runners of all abilities, fostering inclusivity and support. Whether you’re a back-of-the-pack runner cruising at sexy pace or getting a long-run workout in, you’ll likely settle into a group you’re comfortable with.
Kevin Delavega, a run leader at KRC who’s been with the crew since its inception in 2016, emphasizes the club's open-door policy: "All paces are welcome, and we've introduced specific pace groups for our Saturday long runs, making it easier for newcomers to find their stride."
For women and other traditionally underrepresented groups who might be hesitant to join group runs, KRC recently hosted “Women&,” a gathering for female and nonbinary runners to connect over shared experiences and unique challenges. “This was an important event for the group and community because it provided a safe space for local female runners to meet others and build friendships,” Delavega says.
Despite its name suggesting a focus on ultramarathons, UBR welcomes individuals of all interests and distances. Atim attributes the surge in ultrarunning's popularity to social media, which has inspired herself and others to pursue longer distances. She emphasizes UBR's commitment to adapting to members' needs, whether through social events or diversifying trail locations.
“People are always looking for new ways to challenge themselves. While running an ultramarathon is the goal for many of us, we want to bring people together and make this community their own,” Atim says. “I allow space and room for feedback on how UBR can help them in their journeys, whether it’s brunches to keep us coming together or having trails in different parts of London to make it easier for others.”
For Ruddy Trobrillant and his Paris-based club POWERUP, whose multidisciplinary focus encompasses running, cycling, basketball, and more, exercise is more than just physical activity—it's a lifestyle that connects people to the world around them. "Since the pandemic, people have sought to explore both the world and themselves, making long-distance running a goal," says Trobrillant, who finds particular solace in traversing rugged mountain trails.
Now, armed with a supportive community, leading an active lifestyle has never been more accessible or enjoyable. "Some seek speed, others crave competition, while some simply want to unwind," reflects Trobrillant. So, what's your motivation for going the distance?
