Joining a running club or connecting with local resources can transform your running experience in Florida. Whether you’re looking for training partners, social runs, or motivation, Florida’s running community is diverse and welcoming. Here’s a guide to some of the top running clubs and community resources across the state to help you find support, improve your skills, and make running even more enjoyable.
1. Miami Runners Club (Miami)
Overview: Miami Runners Club is one of South Florida’s largest running clubs, offering weekly group runs, races, and social events. Open to runners of all levels, it’s a great place to meet people and improve your fitness.
Highlights: The club organizes group runs along Miami’s scenic routes, including Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach. They also host the annual Twilight 5K and Turkey Trot events.
Membership: Membership provides access to group training sessions, club races, and social events. It’s suitable for both casual and serious runners looking to build a support network.
Tips: Check the Miami Runners Club website for weekly run schedules and special events. They also offer tips for running in Miami’s heat and humidity.
2. Tampa Bay Runners (Tampa)
Overview: Founded in 1984, Tampa Bay Runners is a nonprofit club that welcomes runners of all ages and abilities. With organized group runs and training programs, the club fosters a supportive running environment.
Highlights: Tampa Bay Runners hosts the popular Tampa Bay Labor Day Run 5K. Members enjoy running along scenic locations such as Bayshore Boulevard and the Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail.
Membership: Annual membership includes access to group runs, discounts on club races, and social gatherings.
Tips: If you’re new to the area, Tampa Bay Runners is a great way to discover local routes and receive tips for running in Tampa’s humid climate.
3. Track Shack Running Club (Orlando)
Overview: Sponsored by Track Shack, a well-known Orlando running store, this club is popular with local runners. The club offers weekly training sessions, social runs, and opportunities to participate in races.
Highlights: Track Shack Running Club organizes events such as the Winter Park Road Race and the OUC Orlando Half Marathon. Members also receive special access to training programs led by experienced coaches.
Membership: Membership includes weekly workouts, race entry discounts, and access to coaching support.
Tips: Visit Track Shack’s store to check out upcoming events and join a weekly run to see if the club’s friendly atmosphere is a good fit for you.
4. West Volusia Runners (DeLand)
Overview: West Volusia Runners, based in DeLand, is a close-knit group focused on fitness and community. The club organizes group runs, social events, and training programs, with a friendly, welcoming environment.
Highlights: The club hosts regular group runs and social gatherings, as well as participating in races around the state.
Membership: Membership includes group runs, entry to social events, and access to their online community for support and motivation.
Tips: West Volusia Runners’ routes often include scenic trails and paths, so it’s a great option if you prefer running in a natural setting.
5. Gulf Coast Runners (Naples)
Overview: Gulf Coast Runners is a nonprofit club serving the Naples area, with group runs, local races, and community events. The club is dedicated to promoting fitness and creating a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities.
Highlights: Gulf Coast Runners hosts several popular local races, including the Gulf Coast Half Marathon and the Turkey Trot 5K. They also have regular beach and trail runs.
Membership: Members enjoy access to club events, race discounts, and special training programs.
Tips: Join one of their sunrise beach runs for a beautiful start to your day, and check their website for updates on local races.
6. Palm Beach Roadrunners (Palm Beach)
Overview: Palm Beach Roadrunners is a popular club that offers training, group runs, and social events throughout Palm Beach County. With a friendly community vibe, it’s open to runners of all ages and abilities.
Highlights: Members can participate in regular runs along scenic routes, including beachside paths and waterfront trails. They also host events such as the Classics by the Sea 5K.
Membership: Membership includes access to training programs, social gatherings, and race discounts.
Tips: Palm Beach Roadrunners frequently update their schedule with new runs and events, so follow them on social media for the latest updates.
7. Sarasota Storm Running Club (Sarasota)
Overview: Sarasota Storm is a club for runners and triathletes in the Sarasota area, offering group runs, bike rides, and swim sessions. It’s perfect for those looking to diversify their training.
Highlights: The club hosts regular group workouts, as well as the popular Sarasota Half Marathon. They also organize triathlon training for those interested in multisport events.
Membership: Membership includes access to training sessions, social events, and discounts at local fitness stores.
Tips: Sarasota Storm has an active online community where members can find support, advice, and local event information.
8. Run4Beer Running Club (Multiple Locations)
Overview: Run4Beer is a unique social club with chapters in cities across Florida, including Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. The club combines running with social events, culminating in a post-run beer.
Highlights: Each group run is followed by a social gathering at a local brewery. It’s a fun, relaxed environment that’s perfect for casual runners or those looking to make new friends.
Membership: Free to join, with the option to purchase club apparel. Members pay for their own post-run refreshments at partner breweries.
Tips: Check out their Facebook page to see when and where the next Run4Beer meet-up will be. Runs are typically 5Ks, making them accessible for all levels.
9. JTC Running (Jacksonville)
Overview: JTC Running is Jacksonville’s oldest running club, offering training, races, and community service projects. Known for its organized training programs, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned runners.
Highlights: JTC hosts the Gate River Run, the largest 15K in the country, and offers a year-round training program that includes both speed and endurance workouts.
Membership: Membership provides access to group training sessions, race entry discounts, and social events.
Tips: The club’s training programs are a great way to improve your running skills. Check their website for event dates and meeting locations.
10. North Florida Trail Runners (Various Locations)
Overview: For those who prefer trails to pavement, North Florida Trail Runners offers group runs on scenic trails in North Florida, including locations in Gainesville, Ocala, and Jacksonville.
Highlights: This club focuses on trail running, organizing runs in beautiful natural settings and providing tips on tackling challenging terrain.
Membership: Free to join, with an active online community for sharing trail information and organizing group runs.
Tips: Trail running requires different skills than road running, so be prepared for uneven terrain and bring water. Follow the club’s Facebook page for updates on group runs and events.
Online Resources for Florida Runners
For those who prefer virtual communities or want additional resources, several online platforms offer support and connection for Florida runners.
Florida Running and Triathlon Facebook Group: A large online community where runners across Florida share tips, race updates, and personal achievements.
Meetup.com: Use Meetup to find local running groups and events near you, especially if you’re traveling or new to an area.
Strava: Many Florida running clubs use Strava to track runs, share routes, and motivate each other. It’s an excellent way to stay connected with your running community.
RunningintheUSA.com: This website lists upcoming races across Florida, making it easy to find events and register online.
Benefits of Joining a Running Club
Motivation and Accountability: Running with a group can provide motivation and accountability, making it easier to stay consistent with training.
Social Connections: Clubs are a great way to meet people with similar interests, fostering friendships and creating a support network.
Access to Coaching: Many running clubs offer access to experienced runners or certified coaches who can help improve your form and technique.
Safety: Running in groups adds a layer of safety, particularly for those who run in the early morning or evening hours.
Conclusion
Florida’s running clubs and online communities provide invaluable support for runners of all ages and skill levels. From training programs to social meet-ups, these clubs foster camaraderie and help you connect with others who share your passion. Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned marathoner, Florida’s running community has a place for you. Join a club, find a group run, and experience the benefits of being part of the Sunshine State’s vibrant running scene!