Run clubs to join around Indy
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Running is lapping other sports across fitness trackers, and Gen Z is setting the pace.
Why it matters: During a loneliness crisis and remote work era, running is one way to release stress and make new friends.
The intrigue: Young singles are also joining running clubs to find dates, the New York Times reports.
By the numbers: 84% of Strava users tell the fitness tracker company their No. 1 reason for exercising is social connection.
- Gen Z is 29% more likely than millennials to work out with another person at least some of the time.
- Also, runners are 85% more likely to log a personal record when running in a group of two or more versus a solo run.
The bottom line: Whether you're Gen Z or not, there are lots of running groups that facilitate community and social connection in Central Indiana.
Check these out in Indianapolis:
Indy Runners connects residents for year-round weekly gatherings, marathon training programs, volunteer opportunities and more.
Speedway Running Club is a nonprofit running and walking club that meets at 6pm every Wednesday in Speedway at Daredevil Tap Room on Main Street.
Bourbon Street Run Club gathers at 5:30pm every Tuesday evening for a free friendly run. Gathering spot is the Indianapolis Cultural Trail Office.
Pleasant Run Club hosts a Weekly Wednesday Group Run that starts at 5:30pm at Bovaconti Coffee. Additional runs are also on their Strava club page.
November Project Indy is a free fitness community that gathers for running stairs and doing bodyweight exercises at the Indiana War Memorial and other city locations.
Monon Track Club meets at 6:30pm Tuesdays at Half Liter BBQ and 8:30am Saturdays at O'Bannon Old Northside Soccer Park.
The other side: Want to stay fit and make connections but not into running? Consider the booming low-impact workout scene.
Go deeper: Take note of these trail etiquette tips as you run this summer.