In 2024, Bengaluru has seen the rise of running clubs that focus more on socialising than on marathon training. These clubs, which encourage participants to run short distances on weekends, offer a unique opportunity to meet new people while staying fit.
These free-to-join clubs, led by fitness enthusiasts, meet in parks and neighbourhoods on Saturdays and Sundays, with distances ranging from 3.5 km to 10 km. The majority of participants are in the 20-35 age group, and there is near gender parity in attendance. The clubs often add fun elements such as icebreaker activities before the run, games, breakfast, or DJ parties afterward. Occasionally, they switch things up with activities like frisbee, partner squats, or even a game of dog and the bone. Winners of these games, or those who outperform their running average, are sometimes rewarded with a free coffee or dosa.
Clubs like Stride Run Club, founded by Sidharth Yadav, use social media to create a sense of “FOMO” (fear of missing out). The club, based in HSR Layout, even has a mascot named Ducky, a 24-year-old IT employee who attends every Sunday. Similarly, the BEL Bullets Run Club, which began in February, now has 90 members running in smaller groups in Cubbon Park. They also mix in activities like rock climbing and yoga.
The Indiranagar Run Club, which replicates the neighbourhood running culture seen in the USA and Australia, has grown rapidly since its inception, with 380 participants at its most recent run. Namma Run Club, launched in September, focuses on getting people moving through low-intensity activities like walking or jogging. Many clubs offer additional perks like social events or parties, making these running clubs not just about fitness, but also about building community.
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