Tired of spending their days swiping through potential matches on dating apps, single people across the country are now hitting the pavement and joining run clubs as a fresh and active way to meet others.
For some, this means ditching the fluorescent blue light of a smartphone for the early morning sunshine. At the Chicago Run Collective meeting point in Chicago, Illinois, hundreds of runners gather as early as 8 a. For many, these morning runs offer an opportunity to connect with potential partners while staying fit and healthy.
This is my first time here. Already, the vibes are positive, and I have gotten a couple of people to come up to me," said Davawnna Clark, who mentioned she is taking a break from dating apps. The shift from dating apps to running clubs has gained momentum through social media, with users on TikTok and Instagram chronicling their experiences.
What began as a casual invitation among friends to join local running groups quickly evolved into a viral phenomenon. As the trend gained traction, participants shared their stories online, showcasing the social and health benefits of trading swipes for sneakers.
That caught the attention of established running clubs, which soon noticed an influx of newcomers. Chicago Run Collective co-founders Maya Carducci and Jordan Williams leaned into this trend, creating a space where fitness and social interaction intersect. Their club started in May and has quickly become a popular spot for runners looking to connect, with nearly 1, people showing up to run near Lake Michigan. We push video content pretty hard and sell the lifestyle," Carducci explained. It feels just like it does online," added Williams.
