5 Black-led running organizations you should check out

Find community in running.

A community you feel comfortable in can make all the difference when it comes to sticking with new hobbies and habits. For Black runners throughout the United States, running clubs that recognize, celebrate, and uplift them can be an empowering and transformative experience. There is also support and safety in numbers. When you run with people who understand your identity, you can form deep connections that help strengthen your physical and mental health.

If you’re looking for a Black-led running organization to join or support, explore this list of some excellent running groups from throughout the U.S. This list includes formal associations, not-for-profit groups, and running clubs that focus on supporting Black runners. And if you want to stay connected outside of running, check out this list of six Black outdoor organizations that cover everything from hiking to camping.

Why should you join a running club?

Hit the ground running.

Many runners consider their daily jog to be a meditative time. While running, they can shut off their brains and get their heart pumping. If this peaceful vibe appeals to you, running clubs might seem like an unnecessary way to complicate your workout. But wait! Look a little closer, and you’ll see that running clubs offer a surprising host of benefits.

First, what is a running club? The name is pretty straightforward; running clubs are groups of people who run together. Some running clubs, like the Road Runners Club of America, have expanded into huge organizations with programs and branches throughout the United States. Other clubs are simply small, local groups that bond over a shared love for running. If you usually run alone, here are five reasons why you might want to join a running club.