- Everybody
- Posts
- The Rise of Run Clubs
The Rise of Run Clubs
Bruce Hamilton
April 14, 2025
Running is not just about fitness anymore. Across cities like New York, LA, and London, run clubs are booming blending movement, community, and culture into one experience. This week, we are breaking down why run clubs are taking over, how they are reshaping social life, and why running together is the new way to connect. Whether you are fast or just getting started, there is a crew waiting for you.
This week in pop culture & business
The Return of the Dire Wolf
Scientists have successfully cloned a “dire wolf” embryo, reviving the prehistoric species made famous by Game of Thrones. The biotech startup Colossal Biosciences, which specializes in de-extinction projects, announced the breakthrough as part of its broader mission to bring back lost species. While the embryo is still in early stages, the development raises both excitement and ethical debates about the future of genetic engineering and humanity’s role in resurrecting extinct animals.
A Minecraft Movie earns over $550 million at the Box Office
A Minecraft Movie, starring Jason Momoa and Jack Black, has earned over $550 million at the global box office, according to early estimates. The film has generated massive buzz thanks to the enduring popularity of the game and a strong cast. If projections hold, Minecraft could become one of the highest-grossing video game adaptations ever, signaling Hollywood’s continued success in tapping into gaming fandoms.
Shopify CEO leans into AI
Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke has urged teams to prioritize using AI tools before hiring new employees, emphasizing a shift toward efficiency and lean operations. In a company-wide memo, Lütke highlighted AI’s potential to automate tasks and boost productivity, suggesting that relying on technology should be the first solution to growth challenges. The move reflects a broader trend among tech companies leveraging AI to streamline operations and control costs in a competitive market.
Ubisoft claims gamers don’t own the games they purchase
Ubisoft is pushing back against a lawsuit over its decision to shut down The Crew servers, arguing that players don’t actually own their video games—just licenses to access them. The legal battle, sparked by gamer outrage, highlights growing tensions around digital ownership and what rights consumers have when online-dependent games are discontinued. Ubisoft’s stance could set a major precedent for how publishers handle game shutdowns in the future.
60% of Coachella general admission attendees used Buy-Now-Pay-Later plans
As music festival ticket prices continue to soar, Coachella and other major events are increasingly offering payment plans to make attendance more accessible. With some general admission passes now costing over $500, organizers are responding to fan pushback by allowing buyers to split payments over several months. The trend reflects broader shifts in the live music industry, where rising production costs and demand are driving up pricesand forcing festivals to get creative to keep audiences coming.
The Rise of Run Clubs
Running used to be a solo sport. Headphones in, eyes down, miles logged. But today, running looks a lot different. Across cities like New York, London, and Los Angeles, run clubs are booming and they are reshaping what fitness and community look like.
It is not just about getting faster. It is about belonging.
Here is why run clubs are everywhere right now.
More Than Just Miles
The new wave of run clubs is about more than pounding pavement. It taps into deeper cultural and emotional needs.
Mental Health Focus
Running has always been good for the mind, but now it is being intentionally used as a tool for mental wellness. In a 2023 Strava survey, 82 percent of runners said running helped them cope with stress and anxiety better than any other activity.
Real-Life Connection
In a world dominated by apps and screens, run clubs offer face-to-face interaction. Studies show that Gen Z and Millennials are increasingly craving real-world connections, with 71 percent saying they want more in-person experiences post-pandemic.
Goal Setting Culture
Run clubs provide built-in motivation. Weekly runs, training programs, races, and personal bests create a cycle of encouragement and progress.
City Culture Shift
Wellness is becoming a new status symbol. In cities like New York and Los Angeles, showing up to a run club is as much about community and creativity as it is about fitness.
The Clubs Leading the Movement
Here are some of the run crews making waves right now:
Bridge Runners (New York City)
The original underground run crew that turned city streets into a community playground.
District Running Collective (Washington DC)
A culture-driven club focused on accessibility, diversity, and good energy.
Venice Run Club (Los Angeles)
A coastal crew blending wellness, social connection, and West Coast cool.
Patta Running Team (Amsterdam)
Born from the iconic streetwear brand Patta, this team blends fashion and fitness into one global movement.
What these crews share is a focus on inclusion. You do not have to be a marathon runner to join. You just have to show up.
Running Is the New Social Life
Today’s run clubs are not just about running. They are social hubs.
Members meet for pre-run coffee, post-run brunches, wellness retreats, and community dinners. They host panel talks, pop-ups, and even collaborative projects with brands.
Running is the glue. Community is the product.
In fact, according to RunRepeat, running club membership globally increased by 47 percent between 2021 and 2024, driven by people seeking more community-oriented fitness experiences.
Would You Join a Run Club?
The beauty of modern run clubs is their openness. Whether you are trying to hit a new PR or just want to move and meet new people, there is a space for you.
In a time when loneliness is at an all-time high and digital fatigue is setting in, movement might just be the simplest way to reconnect with yourself and with others.
You do not have to be fast. You just have to show up.
Would you run with a crew? Let us know.
Curated Vibes
Song of the week: “Arc de Triomphe” by Amine
Apple Music
Spotify
Movie of the week: Warfare
Hope you enjoyed this week’s issue. If so, please share. Forward this to someone who should read it. Share with your group chat. Text it to a friend or colleague.
Share on Twitter (X), LinkedIn, or Facebook
Like what you see? Subscribe or Partner With Us
