Best Running Clubs In Minnesota
The shortness of breath? Your lungs can take it. The stitch in your side? Ignore it. When you're out running, you're free. There's nothing but you, and your athletic shoes hitting the pavement. Sometimes it's hard to get the motivation to go out and run, though, especially when your bed is so warm and comfortable, or an episode of your favorite show is on. These running clubs will help your get up and get moving so you too can experience the freedom of a good run.
Minnesota Distance Running Association
www.runmdra.org
On your mark, get set... You're running for distance, so there's no need to sprint. An organization whose mission is "to promote participation and safety in running and to serve as an information resource," it's a fantastic way to give involved with running in Minnesota. From kids to beginning adults to lifelong marathon runners, everyone is welcome to take advantage of the resources. There are various memberships, but the 1 year sustaining membership gets you free entry into all MDRA races.
Twin Cities Running Club
www.twincitiesrunning.org
The Twin Cities are one of the most active metro areas in the country. The Twin Cities Running Club is one of the best ways to experience that. There are so many runs, longer and shorter, to take advantage of. Whether you're looking to meet other runners, better your run times, get in shape, or just enjoy the beauty of the Twin Cities, there are countless races to choose from to suit your style and abilities. There are basic memberships for $25/year, and family memberships for $40/year, but you can also get involved on a run-by-run basis. You'll get involved in local races and events, meet new people, all the while bettering yourself. Is there really a better reason to run?
The Twin Cities Running Experiment (TCRE) welcomes all to lace up and come hit the streets. Whether a mile makes you wheeze or you've been running all your life, they have a place for you. Also, it is completely free. It's a meetup group based on the idea that "If you run, you are a runner," TCRE promotes social interaction through physical activity. Also, your voice will never be lost. There is a Message Board where you can discuss your running, and suggest new places to run. No need to go it alone.
Related: Best Fitness Classes In Minnesota
ClubRun
www.clubrun.org
For the more serious runners, ClubRun is here to help you meet your goals. Seasonal memberships cost $25. The group meets on the Lake of the Isles and will help coach you so that no matter what run you're trying to take, you'll make it to the finish line. But even more than that, the group wants to remind you that it isn't all about goals; you need to have fun too. Pub crawls, potlucks, brunches, and other social activities help you celebrate life during those few moments when you're not putting shoe to pavement.
Capital City Runners
www.capitalcityrunners.com
St. Paul is even more beautiful when you run by. But while based in the capital city, this free-membership, long-distance running group will take you to races all across the state. The club runs Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 p.m. They also run Saturday mornings at 7 a.m. starting in June and through early October, and then that start time moves to 8 a.m. for rest of the year. This is a great opportunity to find out just what kind of runner you are, without breaking the bank.
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Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.