Are dating apps not working? Tired of playing the infamous swiping game on Tinder? Try deleting those apps and picking up your pair of running shoes. These new singles run clubs have taken social media by storm. Imagine being able to get your workout in while meeting new people.
What is a Singles Run Club?
This new group running phenomenon originally started in New York, created by the Lunge Run Club. The Lunge Run Club was looking for new ways to get people up and active, thus the singles run club was created. The only rules of the run club are simple: Singles must wear black and those who are in a relationship wear colors. Runners will meet once a week, run a set amount of miles, and finish up at a bar.
During the run you are encouraged to talk with fellow runners and once the run ends at the bar you can continue conversation with anyone that you meet. This new approach to dating is meant to help create an inclusive environment that makes it easier for others to meet like-minded people. After the huge success of the New York singles run club, many other cities have started forming their own.
Not a Runner? No Problem!
Not a big runner? Don’t worry many single run clubs have made it their main priority to accommodate the diverse groups of people attending these weekly meetups, by creating different pace groups. These groups can range from everyday runners to light joggers and speed walkers. The main goal of these run clubs isn’t to push one another to make a new PR, it’s to encourage socializing.
Changing the Dating Scene
Ditching the dating apps in favor of these run clubs not only can benefit your health, but also change your perspective on dating. This real-life Hinge has been a breath of fresh air for many. Rather than sending the awkward message from your screen and being unsure if they’ll respond, you already know everyone’s intent at these meet-ups. Everyone at these run clubs has one thing in common — they are all looking for community.
If you meet someone on the run and you hit it off, you can easily transition into a first date post-run. Another huge benefit of these single run clubs is that since it is a group activity you don’t have to worry about the safety risks of the usual first date meet up. You’ll already know the people you may wish to talk to and also will be surrounded by other runners from the group.
Try it out at Penn State
Want to experience a singles run club for yourself? Look no further than Penn State Barstool’s singles run club. Every Thursday, runners meet at the Old Main stairs at 6:30 p.m. and run two miles together. There will be multiple group leaders with varying paces, allowing you to pick your own pace that you feel most comfortable with. At the end of each run, there’ll be chances for you to reach out to those you may have met during the run. After this week’s meeting, there will also be THON opportunities post-run!
Tag us on Instagram, @VALLEYmag, with pics of you at the next singles run club!
