Enter, run groups.
So what draws people to running groups?
A 2017studypublished in theJournal of Osteopathic Medicinefound that regular participation in group exercise significantly reduced feelings of stress.
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And theres a club for nearly every purpose.
Maybe you want a more advanced group that runs faster paces at track workouts.
Thats what Verna Volker did in 2018, as she tells SELF.
I often hear people say that its a movement that weve created.
Volker started the group on Instagram, where she showcases the stories of Native women around the world.
Now shes facilitating activities beyond the grid.
Chinatown Runners is a national organization that started in New York.
The umbrella organization calls for a monthly meetup of running groups around the world to unite for some miles.
Run for Chinatown is one such group.
Founded in 2009, Black Girls Run is a national organization with chapters in cities across the country.
Most Front Runners clubs organize weekly runs and walks, followed by social activity.
Like a lot of groups, youll find many ability levels represented and welcomed.
Its mission is to transform the lives of people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection.
Plus, the group offers training plans for whatever distance you might be preparing to race.
Visit thewebsiteto learn more about the club or download the app forAndroidorApple.
Our goal is to inspire more individuals of color to change the way the fitness industry looks.
Its sister club,Latinas Run, focuses specifically on women runners.
And if there are no local chapters close to you, dont worry!
You canapplyto start a group in your area.
Visit thewebsiteto find a group run in your area or learn more about national events.
Members generally seek getting faster, hitting personal records, Boston Marathon qualifiers, and more.
Black Roses is serious about performance, and its members are high-achieving.
Many run clubs across the country are created and operated out of local running shops.
But now, it also has a chapter in Chicago.
Anybody can join to train tough, celebrate hard, and cheer harder.
See more from SELFs Guide to Running package here.
