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The best groups for Boston-area runners of all skills
Boston.com readers shared their favorite running clubs in and around Boston.
If watching the 128th Boston Marathon got you itching to lace up your running shoes, you’ll want to keep the momentum going by finding a group of runners equally as passionate as you.
Whether you’re looking to hit a new personal best or you’re more interested in the post-run beer, there’s a running community out there for you. We asked Boston-area runners to share their favorite local running groups and received 49 suggestions from more than 200 readers.
The running clubs they recommended span all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels so you can be sure to find a running group that suits your needs.
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A 🏃 means that this running group was the one of top recommendations from readers.
261 Fearless 🏃
“I joined in the summer of 2023 an all women’s run group. They have inspired me and uplifted me and honestly changed my life. They are so supportive, inclusive of everyone that are at different stages of their running path. Some are beginners that have never run before and would like to learn how to and other women who just want to walk and move, or some pros that have experience in running marathons. This is such a great group and they are all over the country/worldwide.” — Z, East Boston
1.5 Run Club
The laid-back group embraces its namesake, a 1.5 star review of its host restaurant from the Boston Globe in 2015.
“I love 1.5 Star Run Club for its social atmosphere and the many friends I’ve made in the neighborhood since its inception over two years ago! Loco has been an exceptionally supportive host for our community as well. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or casual runner, all are welcome to join our Saturday morning runs starting at 9 a.m. from Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar. Our routes accommodate various paces and distances, including 1.5 miles, 5k, and 10k options. After the run, we gather back at Loco for post-run conversations, a bite to eat, and the opportunity to build new friendships over a well-deserved margarita.” — Corey D. South Boston
Achilles International
“This is Boston’s all inclusive running group. Runners of all abilities join together twice a week for group runs starting on Newbury Street. Achilles specializes in providing guides to runners with disabilities for all kinds of races or just a weekly jog. I have run with multiple groups and nothing else comes close in terms of team spirit and community.” — Mike L., Medford
Black Men Run
Black Men Run Boston is a running group that hopes to empower the city’s Black male population to be healthier and build community. They meet every Saturday morning for running, walking, and bike rides, usually in Roxbury and Dorchester. Dan M. from Cambridge said the group has a “welcoming, great attitude.”
Borderline Running Club
“If you like to get the long run over early and enjoy the rest of the weekend, this is the group for you. We meet at 6:45 a.m. on Saturday mornings. The starting location is always the North Andover Common, so you don’t have to worry about remembering where to meet. The routes, however, vary as we tag different town borders, allowing new runners to collect all their borders and become full members. It’s just a great group of people to spend time with, whether you’re running or not.” — Amy D., North Chelmsford
Boston Bulldogs 🏃
“The Boston Bulldogs provide individuals in recovery and those affected by addiction with one of the most important tools in the battle of staying clean and sober: community. Through running, community, and fellowship, new members go from feeling apart to becoming a part of. This group has (literally) saved lives.” — Evan C., Brookline
Boston Hash House Harriers
“Self-described as a ‘drinking club with a running problem,’ the Boston Hash runs are a great way to meet new people, let off some steam, and log your miles. They have different sub-groups too that let you run as much (or as little) as you want, as well as a ladies-only group. There are no annual dues. You pay per run which gets you your miles, snacks, and beer. There are ‘Hash House Harriers’ groups all over the world, making this part of a global network of running clubs.” — C., Medford
Boston Fun Run
“This is a great group for socializing with runners of varying fitness levels and an excellent way to branch out to discover similar running groups and social clubs. The premise of meeting at a different bar every week also serves to keep the group feeling new and exciting for longtime members.” — Adam, Cambridge
Brighton Bangers
“The Brighton Bangers are Boston’s friendliest running club! Beginner-to-intermediate-friendly, as long as you’re up for running three or miles, followed by hanging at the local bar or cafe, the Bangers will welcome you! The young professional, fairly transient demographic of Allston-Brighton makes the club a great place for people that are new to the city, new to running, or just new to the group to socialize.
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“With well-attended monthly non-running social outings, the Bangers are a great place to find new friends. The large Wednesday-night group attracts all levels and ages of runners, inclusive of both the 5k and the marathon crowd, although more serious runners often double-dip in other local clubs for speed and distance workouts. With monthly designated team grand-prix races, many Bangers find themselves running faster and further than they would have imagined. The Brighton Bangers are a great place to find everything from personal records and new distances to future roommates, spouses, and lifelong friends!” — K, Brighton
Cambridge Running Club
Come for the track workouts and stay for the social events. Cambridge Running Club hosts weekly runs as well as mixers, potlucks, White Mountains camping trips, and holiday parties. Join a Thursday night run to see if this group is for you.
Colonial Road Runners
“Colonial Road Runners, with members throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, provides friendship, support, and a variety of training opportunities for runners of all ages, abilities, and goals. If you are new to running, joining our club will put you in contact with experienced runners who will help you train effectively and safely. If you are a competitive runner, you will benefit from the camaraderie of like-minded racers and will have the opportunity to participate in intra-club and inter-club competitions. Our club awards offer attainable goals for everyone, by rewarding both competitive success and consistent participation. Our running activities include weekly group training runs, summer and winter fun runs, and track workouts, as well as club-sponsored road races.” — Jill, Abington
Cortado Club
“This Brookline run club takes one thing seriously and it is not running, it’s coffee. The crew meets on Thursday mornings for a shuffle around Boston followed by a coffee. Run too fast you’ll be dubbed running at “cold brew pace.” Chill is the name of the game at Cortado Club.” — Dubs, Cambridge
Danvers 5K
“Has offered a free, timed run every Wednesday for the last seventeen years. They run in blizzards and hurricanes and have never canceled the event. It is incredibly friendly and club-neutral (runners from lots of clubs participate). Great place for newbies or veterans to engage in the camaraderie that makes running such a great sport.” — Aaron T., Danvers
Dashing Whippets
“It’s a small, tight-knit team (20-25 engaged members) which means everyone knows each other well. Some of the bigger teams in the area can feel overwhelming, so I think it’s nice to have a smaller group. We have a weekly Saturday morning run. Our meeting spot alternates between Boston Common and Fenway each week, and we run a wide variety of routes (it’s fun to explore different parts of the city). Pacing for these long runs is generally 7:30 to 9:00 minutes per mile, and we usually offer five- and 10-mile routes. The team also has a Slack channel, which makes it easy for members to coordinate workouts during the week.
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“We also have a number of fun traditions, including a Christmas lights run in Somerville, a July run to Revere Beach to see the Sand Sculpting festival, and of course a pre-Boston Marathon shakeout and brunch. Full membership is only $30 a year (much lower than other clubs, in my experience).” — Brenton A., Cambridge
Dorchester Running Club
“All paces welcome, the absolute best and most friendly crew, and summer runs at the pub! The DRC president, Stefanie O’Shea, is the literal best and will make you feel welcome.” — Laney S., Dorchester
East Boston Run Club
“I’ve been a part of the East Boston Run Club for a few years now and it has been a great way to connect with and learn about such a rapidly evolving part of Boston. It’s great to be able to get a running shoe and a dinner recommendation from the same group! The club meets twice a week, Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and Friday mornings at 7 a.m. The running route is along the harbor walk with extraordinary views of Boston and all of the wildlife in and around the harbor. Adjacent to the airport, it is awesome being able to run in plain sight!” — Sara, East Boston
Forest Hills Runners
“I moved to Boston a little over a year ago knowing next to no one in the city and went to a Forest Hills Runners meet-up that first week. Fast forward to now and I’ve met so many great friends through this inclusive and welcoming group. Whether you’re more excited about the post-run coffees at J.P. Licks or looking for some company while training for the Boston Marathon, there’s something for everyone here. The (free!) professional-level coaching at Thursday track nights is unmatched, and so many of the runs take advantage of the beautiful green space in JP (including the Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Pond, and Franklin Park). FHR is the epitome of what community running is all about.” — Caroline P., Jamaica Plain
Greater Boston Track Club
For runners looking for a more competitive space to train, the Greater Boston Track Club offers just that. The group offers its members coached weekly workouts, track and cross country meets, group runs, and more. There’s something for everyone, whether you do track and field, road racing, trail running, or cross-country.
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“This group is for serious post-collegiate track and field athletes, road runners, and especially, marathoners. They typically meet one to two nights midweek for track work or hill repeats, and groups gather on weekends for long runs (15 to 20 miles or so). GBTC has been around for over 50 years and continues to compete in USATF championship races. They usually have 20 or more members running the marathon. In addition to working hard, they play hard too. The folks I train with have become my best friends, and we love getting brunch or a meal after a hard effort. We often gather for social events in the city.” — Shaun D., Boston
Greater Lowell Road Runners
“The GLRR is a very welcoming and inclusive group. We offer monthly meetings, group runs, support for marathon training, races insights, track workouts and a variety of events. Also the members genuinely love being part of the club and you can feel it. We welcome every pace and we really mean it. From the speedy runners to the back of the pack. We are very proud of our club. We are for runners, by runners.” — Kerri Haskins, Southern N.H.
Heartbreak Hill Running Club
This group, named after the infamous stretch of the Boston Marathon route, has chapters in Newton, South End, and Cambridge. The group welcomes “beginners, Olympic trialists, international competitors, first-time 5K runners, best-time everything runners.” Join them for free weekly runs, get some gear, or tackle their training plans.
“It is true there are a lot of great running clubs in Boston. This is one of the things that makes Boston the best running city in the country. The Heartbreakers are an outstanding team because of their commitment to diversity while encouraging everyone to seek to be the best runner they can. The team hosts many group runs, workouts, and events so there is something for everyone. The team is more than 50% women; this is no small feat and a signal to their aspiration for inclusivity.” — Mark V., Newton
Informal Running
“This tight-knit, yet super-welcoming group reignited my love for running! Informal Running meets on Saturdays for runs along the river and on Thursdays at different locations for three to four-mile runs that end at fun bars across town. I love the running and socializing combination. Since I joined in the spring of 2021, I’ve made lots of friends, gotten in way better shape, and feel like I’ve become a part of the Boston running community. I would 10/10 recommend for anyone looking to run a few miles, meet new people, and explore new parts of the Boston area.” — Monica M., Brookline
Kier Byrnes Freedom Runners
“I never felt like I was ‘really a runner,’ so I never felt at home in serious running groups. Until friends suggested the Kier Byrnes Freedom Runners, where the serious runners took me seriously, the casual runners took me, well, casually, and everyone welcomed me with open arms. This club runs the gamut, and with themed runs weekly in Somerville and long Mystic Lakes Sundays in Medford, there’s a way into whatever kind of running you like to do. But it’s the warmth and camaraderie of the KBFR post-run hangs that are the carrot that keeps people coming back from their very first run. There are countless years-long KBFR friendships — and even marriages — to prove it!” — Pete N., Medford
L Street Running Club
“L street is consistently there for its runners but most importantly for all of its community! It supports people in need of help! Whether you want to conquer training for a marathon or deliver well-needed food to the Boston residents, it is the club!” — Sara L., North End
Lynn Woods Running
“They have three races each week: long, shirt and kids races. Every week is a different course. It’s $2 to race and a wonderful group of supportive trail runners. You won’t run the same course twice from May to October. A small group of us run year round also.” — Judy T., Melrose
Merrimack Valley Striders
“This group always has something going on and is very welcoming. They offer coaching sessions, after work group runs and always have a huge turnout at the races. And of course, they host the Feaster Five in Andover.” — Josh S., Andover
Melrose Running Club
“It is a group of different skilled runners — fast, slow, and medium. We do a Walk to Run program every year to bring new runners in. My absolute favorite is our Sunday long seasons. People come all over and for $2, you have volunteers every three miles (water stop) and a wonderful route through various towns and scenery. We meet Tuesdays for group runs and ‘marathon season’ on Sundays.” — Nicole J., Melrose
Midnight Runners
Boston’s chapter of the global Midnight Runners group is volunteer-led and hosts bootcamp runs, track sessions, party runs, long runs, and more. Kaitlin from Somerville loves this group for the “immaculate vibes and encouraging community that make long runs fun!”
Night Shift Brewing Run Club
“Pretty course around the Malden River loop, friendly group, very welcoming, lots of drink selections for afterwards.” — Kelly, Everett
Northeast Trail Crew 🏃
“This group is very welcoming and goes trail running every Wednesday evening independent of the weather.” — Tobias, Medford
Notch Brewing Runners
“The Notch Brewing Run Club is for everyone. It is a free, USATF-registered club with four weekly group runs that are open to all, that we’ve affectionately dubbed ‘Meters for Liters.’ The four runs per week (two at the Brighton Tap Room, two in Salem) are geared toward more casual runners. We also have a competitive racing team with two coached workouts per week. Whether you’re looking to train hard or just enjoy some casual running, Notch has you. Often the first to show up at races and the last to leave, Notch Runners work hard, have fun, and the post-run beers and conversation can’t be beaten.” — Dan D., Boston
November Project
“November Project is not just a running group. We participate in all kinds of fitness activities, and every workout is scalable according to your needs. While we emphasize hard work and sweat, we further prioritize inclusion, fun, and a sense of community. We encourage everyone to do their best and what works for their bodies, while also conveying that energy that our unofficial mottos state, ‘just show up’ and ‘glad you’re here.’ If that’s not enough to sway you, every workout is free!” — Tara G., Brighton
Parkrun 🏃
“Parkrun has the same strengths as other running communities: steady schedule (Saturdays at 9 a.m.) and distance (5K), the connection with other dedicated athletes. I enjoy the community of these groups, but I’m older, slower, and have some physical limitations that make most of them out of my reach. Parkrun is highly inclusive — it’s free and designed for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Even if you’re not up for running or walking, you can volunteer. Volunteers are just as respected and recognized as runners and walkers.
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“In the Boston area, parkrun is in Boston, Cambridge, and Needham, each in a different park-like setting. After we’re done for the day, we go for coffee, so you can catch up with your friends on the past week. Parkrun has helped me reconnect with my inner athlete, which is a joy.” — Harvey S., Newton
Pioneers Run Club 🏃
“There’s really only one answer to this question, and it is the Pioneers Run Crew. Based in Dorchester, Pioneers is a POC-lead, diverse and welcoming crew where all paces, faces and body types are celebrated. They also do an amazing job celebrating running in all of Boston’s diverse communities whether that’s through their annual 26.true Marathon that runs through the city of Boston (instead of the suburbs), or their “dear summer” tour that meets at city parks all around the city there is no crew that looks more like Boston or does a better job of celebrating running, and runners, in our city.” — Winston V., Dorchester
Portico Point to Pint Runners
“I cannot overstate how welcoming they are. A sizable group with runners of all speeds, with smaller groups running together along the 5k route that changes seasonally. On Thursday nights, along spacious paths that don’t have you dodging cars, it’s a great way to get ready for the weekend. If the cheer tunnel at the end doesn’t automatically make you feel better about yourself, then the beer afterwards will.” — Andrew U., Somerville
REI Run Club 🏃
“REI running club is full of nice people and they are every-pace-friendly. We get together once a month and we can’t wait to see each other and give updates about our lives. In February, I wanted to try to run six miles and, of course, I was the last to get back, but Sarah (the organizer) waited for me and guided me through the last part because I didn’t know the route. I feel comfortable and happy running with them.” — Sandra S., Boston
Run Club of Malden
“This club may be newer, but it’s a welcoming, community-driven club. They have a consistent run schedule that explores Malden as well as the surrounding areas (Fells, Bike to the Sea path) but also mix it up with track workouts, adventure runs, and community events.” — Julia D., Malden
RunABV
“It’s an all abilities run club (and walk club) whose focus is just about people getting outside and being active and then sticking around to socialize at a brewery after. A core group runs every week year round rain or shine. People naturally find others of similar pace and often sign up for races together. Very supportive of goals without being competitive.” — Steve, Beverly
Shamrock Running Club
“If you live in the greater Woburn area just north of Boston, chances are you know a Shamrock. I like that it’s a welcoming, no-pressure atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the fact that there’s a match for runners of every level.” — Herman C., Winchester
Soles of Medfield 🏃
“The Soles are an incredibly friendly and welcoming group. I joined two years ago and instantly found myself with a new group of friends to run and have fun with! My running and social life have improved so much! I love that the group is such a mix of ages, abilities and interests” — Julie C., Medfield
Sole Sisters
This Wilmington-based running group is for female runners of all different ages and abilities. With your membership, you’ll get regular group runs, training programs, social events, opportunities to volunteer at the Boston Marathon, and more.
Somerville Road Runners 🏃
Somerville’s oldest running club offers weekly group runs four days a week, including twice on Wednesdays. Members also have the opportunity to participate in the USATF Grand Prix, an annual series of seven races, ranging from a 5k in Cambridge to the Cape Cod Marathon.
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“The most welcoming group and there is a running group and time/day for everyone! The leaders of the group truly lead by example, are competitive, but understanding that everyone is at a different place, and there is something for everyone. It is also fun, there are themes, and there is team swag.” — Lauren T., Stoneham
Stride for Stride
“Stride for Stride is a non-profit running organization that purchases race bibs for immigrant, BIPOC, and low-income runners – with the goal to increase the diversity of and accessibility of road races. We currently sponsor 400 runners from 26 different countries and about 40 of our runners [competed] in the BAA 5K and Boston Marathon in April.” — Tom O., Brookline
Thirsty Irish Runners
“Runners of all ages and paces who like the social side of running. We do monthly races together and lots of fun runs.” — Anonymous
Trail Animals Running Club 🏃
“They’re a great trail running community where you’ll meet people from novices to well seasoned runners who all have one thing in common, their love for the trails and woods. Everyone is so relaxed, and they have a no runner left behind policy. There’s no membership fee and their races are beyond inexpensive.” — Kim V., Woburn
TrailblazHers Run Club
This female-only Boston-area running group celebrates sisterhood through running and other forms of wellness. Members have access to regular runs, workshops, and social events.
“Trailblazhers is a supportive, inclusive group that welcomes both new runners and marathon runners. The women are supportive of whatever running pace you’re in. They have weekly follow the leadher runs and no one is ever left behind. My favorite even is the Bra Run which brings together hundreds of women in Boston to run in community, and no one is left behind. I found that a lot of running groups are not beginner friendly. I could not run a mile when I began with them. I ran my first 10 this past October. Their motto is run at your pace, whatever that pace may be, even a sexy pace.” — Veronica D., Waltham
Waltham Trail Runners
“Waltham Trail Runners is a great group! The group hosts runs for all paces and abilities six days a week in Waltham and Lincoln. WTR has over 200 active members of all ages and always welcomes new members. If you live in Waltham and its neighboring communities, this is the running group for you!” — Rich S., Waltham
WHBC Beer Gut Running 🏃
“Super casual and friendly group of runners of all levels. There are a few marathon veterans happy to offer advice, a few people training for their first marathon, and a bunch of casual runners. And there’s a great social aspect, everyone generally hangs around and has a beer afterwards. Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.” — Bertram H., Somerville
Wicked Running Club
“Membership in this Salem-based running club has something for everyone: weekly runs, professional coaching with on-site workouts, our own local Wicked Grand Prix and USATF racing, relay events, and social functions. Opportunities abound for volunteering in the club, giving back to our local community, and for the Boston Marathon. Above all, members enjoy the motivation and camaraderie of the best running club on Boston’s North Shore!” — Tom M., Salem
Winner’s Circle Running Club 🏃
“Winners Circle Running Club is a long-standing group of runners based out of the Winners Circle Sports Bar in Salisbury. This group of runners puts on a number of races in the community to support local charities. I received a Boston Marathon charity bib from Boston Fire Department Relief Fund and would not have been prepared to run 26.2 miles without the marathon group runs organized by WCRC, weekly training runs, and member support. It’s a great group of people looking to have fun, stay active, and run.” — Nathan M., Hampstead, N.H.
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