Updated October 10, 2022
In DC, running is a way of life. No matter the time of day, you’ll always find joggers out and about in this bustling city. While going on a solo run every now and then is great for some peace and quiet, it’s also nice having others to go running with. Joining a running club is a great way to meet like-minded people, socialize, and get some physical activity in. They can also help you train for races and competitions, giving you the support and encouragement that you need to succeed. Most of these clubs have meetups early in the morning or after work, so you can squeeze in a run during the week Whether you’re training for a marathon or looking to find more running buddies, this list has the best running clubs in DC for you to join!
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Top Running Clubs in DC
1. District Running Collective
Best for: Long runs on Saturday’s with lots of socializing
Location: 733 11th Street Northeast
One of our favorite running clubs in DC is the District Running Collective, which is a free, community-based organization that promotes wellness, culture, and community. Their runs are open to beginners and experts alike as they aim to support everyone on their running journey. The Collective has a long run every Saturday out of their DRC Space, and #RunWithUsWednesdays during the summer. Apart from their weekly runs, they also arrange fun events and races for runners to socialize and share challenges.
Since the DRC is big on building culture and community, they offer running memberships for those who want extra benefits. As a member, you’ll get a 16-week training plan, super cool apparel, and exclusive access to their member challenges, among other things.
2. DC Capital Striders
Best for: Charity running events
Location: Join their Facebook group for more information!
The DC Capital Striders has a community full of runners in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland. Every Strider believes in a supportive and non-competitive environment, so it makes for a fun and relaxed bunch. This running group has weekly runs all around the DC region, so if you want to explore some beautiful scenic locations in DC, this is the perfect group to do so. It’s also led by knowledgeable and friendly hosts, so you can get running questions or advice answered.
At the beginning of each run, you’ll be informed about the course and teamed up with other runners who match your pace. Each run is designed as an out and back, so you can leave in the middle if you don’t want to complete the entire distance, which is always a nice option. The best part about running with the DC Capital Striders is that they raise money for national and local charities by volunteering at community races. They have two popular charity running events every year – a Holiday Lights Run in the winter, and an Amazing Race in the spring.
3. Pacers Running Social Runs
Best for: Busy runners who want flexibility
Location: 1821 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Despite being a fitness apparel store, Pacers Running organizes some awesome social runs in the DC area. According to locals, the running club is incredibly friendly and well-organized, and they are open to everybody. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon winner or a new runner trying to complete a 5K, these social runs can help you stay in shape while taking you around the most beautiful locations in DC. After each social run, there’s an option to grab coffee or drinks with the group, making it a great way to meet new friends in the city.
The best part about joining this running club is the flexibility it offers. They offer social runs on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays at 6:30 PM, so no matter your schedule, you’ll be able to find one that works for you. If you’re an early bird, they also offer an 8 AM run on Saturdays.
4. DC Front Runners
Best for: A diverse and unique running group
Location: P and 23 Streets, NW
DC Front Runners is one of the best running clubs in DC that offers more than just fitness. It’s also a social club that serves Washington DC’s LGBTQ community and all their friends. This club is open to everyone, regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or athletic ability. The group is also full of diversity when it comes to speed, distance, and intensity of the runs. Everyone will feel like they belong in this welcoming running community.
The club meets up on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 PM, as well as Saturdays at 10 AM and Sundays at 9 AM. Runners go on a variety of routes, including Rock Creek Park, the National Mall, and the Potomac River banks. For those who want even more socializing opportunities beyond the weekly runs, they offer a membership with exclusive benefits, like monthly happy hours and special club social events.
5. Georgetown Running Club
Best for: Competitive runners who want to train for big races
Location: 3401 M Street NW, Washington, DC
Georgetown Running Company is another apparel store that created one of the top running clubs in DC for competitive runners. If you’re a top-notch athlete who wants to be part of a highly competitive team, then the Georgetown Running Club is perfect for you. Their team is full of post-collegiate runners who compete in road races, cross country, and indoor and outdoor track meets.
The club is led by Jerry Alexander, a former Division I athlete who’s running career was cut short by injury. He now aims to inspire and push runners to achieve their very best through coaching. You’ll never be in the running journey alone with this encouraging and supportive group!
