Is New York City the city that never sleeps? These days, it’s the city that always runs.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking to shake up your routine or a beginner ready to join a group for the first time, there’s a NYC run club for you. From casual jogs to competitive sprints, New York City has hundreds of groups that make running more fun, social, and inspiring.

“There’s truly something for everyone,” says Chris Chung, a runner and run club leader in NYC. “The scene has grown so much, no matter what neighborhood you’re in or what kind of club you’re looking for.”

The downside? Finding the right New York run club can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect fit.

Why join a New York run club?

Joining a run club isn’t just about logging miles. It’s about finding community, staying motivated, and exploring the city in a new way. If you’re on the fence, here are a few perks:

• Motivation and accountability: It’s a lot harder to hit snooze when people in your club are counting on you.
• Better training: Learn tips and tricks from experienced runners and sometimes even professional coaches.
• New friends: Running is a great way to meet people you wouldn’t have met otherwise. If chatting during the runs feels out of reach, there’s plenty of social time before, after, and at adjacent events to hang with your new crew.
• City adventures: Discover great routes in every borough and try out new local businesses, like coffee shops, bars, and yoga studios around your runs.

How to pick the right NYC run club

With so many New York run clubs to choose from, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to find one that matches your vibe and goals:

1. Define your running (or social) goals

Are you training for a marathon, or do you just want a fun way to stay active? Different run clubs cater to different needs. Some focus on competitive training, while others emphasize social connections. Knowing what you want will make it easier to find the right group.

For performance, Chris recommends Brooklyn Track Club and Central Park Track Club. “They usually have a coach or a few on hand, so you get workouts led by a coach,” he says. “That can really help you train for an event.”

Other clubs are more social, like Upper West Side Runners, Social Striders, and Midnight Runners.

2. Consider location and schedule

“Each borough has its own run club that’s been around for awhile.” CHRIS

NYC run clubs meet all over the city and at all times of the day. Think about what’s most convenient for you. Can you make it to a morning run in Central Park, or do you need an after-work jog in Brooklyn? Clubs like New York Fliers cover all the boroughs.

3. Check your budget

Know that some run clubs charge memberships, while some are free.

4. Look for your community

Some clubs are tailored to specific interests or identities. For example, there are women-led groups, LGBTQ+ clubs, and cultural or neighborhood-specific running crews. Find one where you’ll feel welcome and supported.

For example, there’s Harlem Run, Women Make Moves in Brooklyn, and Nice Jewish Runners - New York.

5. Test the waters

Most clubs offer trial runs or drop-in sessions. Take advantage of these to get a feel for the group dynamic. Is the pace comfortable? Are the members welcoming? Do they make you excited to come back?

“If you’re not comfortable in one place, why stay?” Chris says. “Try it out and see if it fits for you.”

Also, it’s common to feel like everyone is best friends on your first visit and you’ll never be part of the crew. Give it some time (and even a few events)—people will welcome you!

6. Use the right tool

Where can you browse lots of NYC run clubs? Check out Heylo, where NYC’s top run clubs organize weekly runs, introduce members, and share all the details about their gatherings, memberships, sponsors, and more.

Already in a NYC run club? You can join another.

Even if you’ve found a great run club, there are plenty of reasons to try something new:

• Change of scenery: Explore new routes and neighborhoods.
• Diverse training styles: Mix up your routine with different types of runs (e.g., trail runs, speed work).
• Social connections: Expand your circle and meet more runners.
• New challenges: Push yourself with a more competitive or goal-oriented group.

“If you wanted something social then you realize you want something performance-based, you can always leave one and go to the other,” Chris says. “People still maintain friendships,” he adds.

“I know people will mix and match: long runs with one club on the weekend, then weekdays they go with their normal club,” Chris says.

Where to start looking for New York Run clubs

Here are some practical ways to start your search:

1. Explore on Heylo

Heylo is the go-to platform for discovering and joining NYC run clubs. Browse local groups, RSVP for events, and connect with other runners all in one place.

2. Use social media

Search hashtags like #HeyloGroups, #NYCRunners, #NYCRunClub, and #RunNYC on Instagram to see which groups are active and align with your vibe.

3. Check running stores

Shops like Brooklyn Running Co. and Fleet Feet host runs or partner with local clubs. Stop by and ask for recommendations.

4. Ask fellow runners

Chat with other runners you meet in parks or at races. Chances are, they’ll have great suggestions.

Finally, just go for it!

Joining an NYC run club is one of the best ways to connect with the city and its incredible running community. So, go ahead, find your crew, and start putting down the miles in one of the best running cities in the world.

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