Discover the Thriving Running Community in Los Angeles: Join One of 135 Active Clubs!

Los Angeles, California, is renowned not only for its entertainment industry but also for its vibrant running community. With a combination of year-round good weather, beach access, parks, and mountain trails, the city offers an ideal environment for runners. This article delves into the diverse and dynamic running clubs in Los Angeles, highlighting their unique characteristics and the benefits they offer to runners of all levels.

The Rise of Running Clubs in Los Angeles

The running scene in Los Angeles has seen a significant transformation over the years. Kate Olson, a social media strategy consultant for the Los Angeles Marathon, has been instrumental in documenting this evolution. In 2019, she began compiling a spreadsheet of active run clubs in L.A. County, discovering over 100 clubs. Although many clubs paused during the pandemic, a new wave of runners and clubs has since emerged. Today, there are approximately 135 active running clubs in Los Angeles, hosting around 230 group runs each week.

Running clubs in Los Angeles cater to a wide range of interests and fitness levels. Some clubs focus on intense training for races, while others prioritize socializing and community building. Many clubs have also incorporated missions of giving back to their communities, making running not just a fitness activity but a way to foster social connections and contribute to societal well-being.

Iconic Running Locations and Clubs

One of the unique aspects of running in Los Angeles is the opportunity to run in iconic locations. For instance, the Saturday Stairs group meets at the Hollywood Bowl, a venue that transforms into a public park when not used for concerts. Jeff Palkevich, the founder of Saturday Stairs, started the club eight years ago after receiving a pacemaker that enabled him to start running. The group welcomes runners of all fitness levels and even incorporates fun activities like rock-paper-scissors games into their workouts.

Another notable club is the November Project, which meets at Griffith Observatory at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesdays. This club is part of a global movement that emphasizes community and fitness. Similarly, the Angels City Run Club gathers at the Angels Flight Railway in downtown L.A. at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, offering a unique urban running experience.

Female-Led and Inclusive Running Clubs

Inclusivity is a significant theme among Los Angeles running clubs. The Recovery Run in Inglewood, led by Angel Risher, provides a safe and supportive space for women to build friendships through running. The club meets at Edward Vincent Park, a location chosen for its safety and the absence of busy streets. The focus is on conversation, support, and connection, making it an ideal environment for those looking to combine fitness with social interaction.

Another inclusive club is Movement Runners, founded by Kit John in Playa Vista. This club is known for its welcoming atmosphere and unique approach to running. There is no set route; instead, the route is made up as the group runs, ensuring that everyone stays together and enjoys the adventure.

Specialized Running Clubs

Los Angeles also boasts specialized running clubs that cater to specific interests and goals. For instance, the SB Coffee Club in Manhattan Beach is a female-led club that meets early Friday mornings to run five miles along the Manhattan Beach Strand. The club takes running seriously, having participated in the Speed Project, a 340-mile relay race from Santa Monica Pier to Las Vegas.

TrailG.O.A.T.s, founded by Adan Benitez, is another specialized club that focuses on trail running in the San Gabriel Valley. The club meets early Sunday mornings and offers various trail options, from six to 18 miles. Benitez, an ultramarathon runner and avid mountain biker, maps out trails for the club, ensuring a challenging and scenic running experience.

Our Advice on the City

For those new to Los Angeles or looking to explore the city’s running scene, joining a local running club can be an excellent way to get to know the area and meet like-minded individuals. Whether you prefer the beach, mountains, or urban landscapes, there is a running club that fits your interests and fitness level.

For occasional travelers, we recommend the Saturday Stairs at the Hollywood Bowl for a unique and fun workout experience. The combination of running stairs and enjoying the iconic venue is a memorable way to stay active while visiting Los Angeles.

For expert travelers and seasoned runners, the TrailG.O.A.T.s club offers a challenging and rewarding experience. Exploring the trails of the San Gabriel Valley and Angeles National Forest provides a deeper connection to the natural beauty of the region and an opportunity to push your running limits.

In conclusion, Los Angeles offers a diverse and dynamic running community that caters to all types of runners. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a supportive group or an experienced runner seeking new challenges, the city’s running clubs provide a wealth of opportunities to stay active, make new friends, and explore the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles.