The Journey to Finding Love Through Running
The journey to the London City Runners clubhouse is a test of willpower in many ways. Not only does it involve a 10-kilometer run, but it’s also located on the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile, which may tempt even the most determined individuals. However, for those with the fortitude to continue, the club offers something more. Despite its declared focus on running, the club has become a veritable hub of romance.
According to founder Tim Navin-Jones, there have been at least 20 marriages between couples who met at the club. This trend is not unique to London City Runners, as running clubs like these have developed a reputation for romance. Runners who spend any time on social media may have already heard about the “run clubs are the new dating apps” trend.
Run clubs are not the only ones catering to individuals seeking romance. The popularity of running has exploded in recent years, with a Strava spokesperson noting that their user base has increased by 80 million since 2019. According to the app, running in groups or clubs has also seen a significant spike, with over 20% of runs on weekends being done with at least one other person.
This trend is not limited to men; women are also joining running clubs in droves. Strava’s growth among Generation Z women is double what it was last year, with over half of women participating in a run with at least one other person. Establishing a “safe space” for female runners was a primary concern when Molly Slater-Davison founded the all-female run club These Girls Run in York, England.
While finding love is often not the primary motivator for joining a run club, it can certainly be a byproduct. Stephen, a member of the LGBT+-inclusive club London Frontrunners, noted that the club has given him a community and a sense of belonging. For Wojciech Pankow, the club’s co-president, running has helped him form lifelong relationships and break down stereotypes about the gay community.
Runners emphasize the mental health benefits of finding a support network through their groups. Phil, a member of London City Runners, credits the club with helping him find a new lease on life and a sense of belonging after struggling with mental health issues.
While romance may not be the initial draw for all runners, it is certainly a byproduct of joining a run club. As the founder of NYC Bridge Runners, Mike Saes, notes, “We have marriages, we have children, but romance is a side effect. It’s really all about camaraderie and bringing people together, rather than ‘I’m going to run tonight to meet my next wife.'”