The Ultimate Guide to Boston’s Running Clubs
By: Sarah Lapinsky
Running is one of my favorite ways to stay active with the incredible serotonin boost, positive effects on my physical health, and connection to a supportive community. Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or new to the sport, joining a running club is an amazing way to both connect with others and stay motivated. In this guide, you’ll learn more about the top running clubs in Boston and what makes them stand out from the crowd. Get ready to find a running club that matches your pace!
The BRR meets every Tuesday at 6:30 pm for a weekly run! All ages and paces are welcome to join in on the 4.75 route that goes right through the heart of Boston. Runners first gather in front of the Dick’s Sports store on Boylston Street, which is a convenient option for many in the Boston area. This club is a part of a bigger non profit organization. The organization has a mission to create a welcoming space so everyone feels excited to run, regardless of whichever pace that may be at. Several races are held through this organization to help raise money for charity. If you are looking to give back in another way, there are also a multitude of opportunities to volunteer through BRR. We love how this club uses running to make a positive impact and think this club would be a great fit for many with the inclusive community!
Midnight Runners
The Midnight Runners are a global running club that began with a small group of friends going for late night runs and a speaker playing music to help amp up the energy. This group slowly grew to over a hundred people, as the timing of these runs make it possible for almost anyone to attend. With the increase in people they started adding in exercise breaks so that everyone has the option to run together and work up a sweat while doing so. Midnight Runners have grown to an extent where they meet in cities all over the world. Boston is lucky enough to have its own group!
The Midnight Runners in Boston vary in time and location, however, this group stays very organized using an app called Heylo. There are multiple types of runs available to participate in. The most popular type is the bootcamp run, consisting of a run with upbeat music and exercise stops to hold the group together. These runs are open to everyone but typically range in pace from 4:00 min/km to 6:00 min/km. The next type of run in terms of popularity would be the long runs. These runs are often upwards of 15k running through scenic areas of Boston with many people to chat to. Another type of run offered we love are the party runs. The party runs are often a themed version of the bootcamp runs with fun costumes and an exciting afterparty. The Midnight Runners Club is the perfect blend of fitness, fun, and community!
Boston Athletic Association
The Boston Athletic Association is a famous organization well known for hosting the Boston Marathon. However, many don’t know that they also have a running club! This club is open for all skill levels to participate in to take their passion for running to the next level. Runs are held every week in the Greater Boston area, with a strong social element if you are looking for a way to connect with other runners nearby. Becoming a member of this club has an additional benefit of the ability to partake in some of the incredible races this association organizes including the Distance Medley and Boston Marathon!
While traditional run clubs are often centered around the act of running itself, the BAA provides other ways you can elevate your running game as well as community connection. One asset of a club membership is the option to receive tips and/or a training plan from expert coaches. This is a great way for new runners to feel confident in taking their first steps with this sport! The BAA also hosts yoga, fitness, and strength sessions to provide the essential cross training needed to prevent injuries and feel your strongest. Finally, this club offers ways to get involved in the community with volunteer opportunities. Imagine how cool it would be to help out with the Boston marathon! Overall, we love the community of this club and think it's a great way for beginners and advanced athletes alike to take their runs to the next level.
This run club prides itself on being one of the friendliest running groups in Boston! Their goal is to make each run feel fun, so you’re getting more than just a workout out of the experience. Each run finishes back in Oak Square where you are able to grab a drink or two and socialize at the Last Drop. The mix of endorphins and chatting with a great group of people will take your runners high to the next level!
Each Wednesday at 7pm this club meets in Oak Square for their weekly runs. There are several route options consisting of 3 miles, 4.2 miles, or 6 miles so you are able to match the run to your fitness level! Additionally, this group offers a weekend run typically at 9 am on Saturday, so you are able to start your weekend off on the right foot. Everyone is encouraged to join in on these runs whether you are a world class marathon or haven’t run since gym class in high school. With so many runners being a part of this club, you are sure to find others at your pace to keep you company as you go. This community is also very welcoming towards everyone regardless of age, gender, or background. Join Brighton Bangers today for a fun community that will take your love for this activity to new heights!
Conclusion
Boston is any runner’s dream with gorgeous routes, a strong running community, and a multitude of running based events. Each club on this list has so much to offer whether you’re looking for a more casual running group or something more advanced. The welcoming community that can be found through these groups is a great way to stay motivated and feel supported as you run towards your goals. So why wait? Lace up your shoes and try out one of these amazing run clubs today!
