Tired of dating apps? Esther Pedro might have a solution for you! Running CLubs are where fitness meets socialising, and they are becoming a new dating phenomenon
The dating world can feel like a barren desert where finding a genuine and deep connection seems like a mirage, with questionable dating profiles, and Hinge prompt answers where straight men, lacking creativity, attempt humour by sharing they are “weirdly attracted to women.” Amidst this tiring climate of dry texting, superficial interactions and catfishing, it’s hard not to wonder: have we reached a breaking point?
Although we are the most connected generation, thanks to the internet, we are ironically facing a growing loneliness epidemic. The oxymoronic situation we have placed ourselves in has led to a desire for more personal, offline connections. People need and want more personal connections. Due to the fatigue of dating apps, fellow singles are turning to alternative avenues to find love. One of these emerging trends online is joining running clubs.
Social media apps promote running clubs as the new go-to for meeting fellow health enthusiasts and affection-starved souls.
Popular influences are claiming run clubs are the new replacement for dating apps. Why is this the case? Is this repurposing of traditional run clubs feasible? Is it defeating the purpose of joining a running club, or is it simply a bonus to the health kick?
I had the pleasure of interviewing Samantha Keating, the founder of YourFriend, MyFriend. Your Friend, My Friend is a company that runs singles events across Ireland, championing the iconic mantra “Ditching the dating apps” to encourage real-life connections. One of the popular events that they organise is a running club, offering a unique space dedicated to those who run alone. When asked why run clubs were chosen as a type of event, Keating mentioned how there is a shift in preferences, as more and more people seem to be opting out of the traditional nightlife and taking a pass on the pint of plain.
An appeal to the new dating trend is the opportunity to meet potential partners somewhat “organically.” Online, you’re never exactly sure who’s behind the screen and what they stand for. It is hard to know who they really are or what their intentions are. Issues like catfishing and the overwhelming illusion of choice can turn online dating into an exhausting mental game.
Sam mentioned how casual the event is, emphasising there is no pressure for the attendees, “It doesn’t feel like a singles event where you’re there just to meet someone."
Even if you don’t meet anyone, you’ve got your 5k run-in. You’ve started your day early on a healthy note, so it is a great way to just get out there again.
Run clubs are a commitment that can lead to a healthier lifestyle overall, both physically and mentally. With many people actively opting to go for a healthier lifestyle and investing in personal fitness, running clubs are a great way to do so. YFMF’s run club is in high demand, Sam shared that up to 100 participants purchase tickets for the event.
During the interview, Sam mentioned how dating apps were ostracised in the past and how singles events are now also being stigmatised, which can put people off trying them or admitting to attending them, as these methods of meeting potential partners have often carried negative connotations. Nonetheless, a run club offers a fresh alternative, “A run club is that happy medium where it is such a casual way to meet somebody,” she explained.
By combining fitness with social interaction, run clubs create a natural environment in which people can connect without the pressure associated with dating apps or singles events.
In my opinion, the trend of run clubs being seen as a dating platform is a case of old practices being reintroduced and rebranded. Theoretically, you can meet your romantic partner anywhere, at university, work, the gym, volunteering, anywhere really. Run clubs are just another space where people can come together and interact. There’s bound to be interest. They act as another third place to connect with people while doing something you enjoy. With many people opting to go for a healthier lifestyle and investing in personal fitness, running clubs are a great way to do such.
If run clubs (outside of singles events) are perceived as merely a dating environment, that can do more harm than good, taking on the negative aspects of dating apps. Seeing general-run clubs as solely another dating space can have negative implications. This highlights the importance, and I would argue the necessity, of events like the one organised by YFMF, which are exclusively catered to singles.
Social media is overwhelmed with conventionally attractive young people participating in run clubs with marathon-like turnout numbers. People in their best-looking run gear out to show their best selves. Such a narrative can be daunting and can discourage others who may be considering joining. The pressure to meet a certain aesthetic could overshadow the joy of running, which may stop people interested in fitness and the community.
What is the future of singles-run clubs? We are seeing a crossover between dating apps and running; with Tinder partnering with Runna last summer to create The SoleMates Run Clubs in London, there is a clear demand. Will other dating apps follow suit? It’s likely.
One thing’s for sure though, run clubs are changing the dating landscape and how we choose to interact with each other while also keeping people in shape.