That runner’s high? It’s even better when shared. Lace up and hit the tarmac with one of Joburg’s many running groups – it’s a fun way to stay motivated, meet new people, and see the city from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re chasing personal bests, keeping it steady with a jog, or taking it easy with a friendly walk, there’s a club that fits your pace. Running comes with an in-built community, and we love the philosophy of making fitness social. Even if you don't think of yourself as the running crew type, you may be pleasantly surprised. Group runs are also safer for longer routes or early-morning and after-dark adventures. Many of Joburg’s running clubs welcome non-members to join their weekly time trials, so you can test the waters before signing up. To make it easy, here's our list of running clubs in Joburg we think you should join. Some are relatively new and bring the energy, while others have been pounding the pavements for decades.
TIPS FOR RUNNING IN JOBURG
"Joburg is really a car city – but if you wake early enough the streets are pretty and quiet, and you can greet spring and summer mornings with a two-legged sun salutation. While many roads and areas are perfectly safe for runners, even those running on their own, it’s always better to be safe than sorry – experienced runners know it’s not just crime you have to worry about but also inconsiderate drivers. Road runners should follow basic safety guides by running facing towards oncoming traffic, avoiding wearing headphones, and wearing light/bright/highly visible clothing. Running in groups also provides added safety, and extra eyes to watch out for obstacles like potholes and open manhole covers!" – Nechama Brodie, editor of The Joburg Book (Pan Macmillan) and an occasional runner of half-marathons.
Races are a great way to see the city, and Johannesburg and surrounds boast a surprisingly full road and trail running calendar – good weather means there are races almost all year round, whether you're looking for a fast 10km or a scenic(ish) half- or full marathon.
If you're not familiar with the city or suburban roads, you can easily find running buddies and a full calendar of events using websites like runnersworld.co.za and runnersguide.co.za.
1. Benchwarmers Runners Club
Photo: Lea's Lens.
Located on the corner of the bustling Jan Smuts Avenue strip in Rosebank, Benchwarmers is a sports bar where the game is always on and the energy is always high. But if you love running as much as watching sports, there's the Benchwarmers Runners Club. They meet at Benchwarmers every Wed from 17:30 for a 17:45 sharp start in summer and 17:15 for 17:30 in winter. It's a 5km run or a 3km walk, and you can reward yourself with a free beer afterwards. Winning! Join them on Whatsapp for updates or follow @benchwarmers_runners_club on Instagram.
Meet at Benchwarmers, 2 Bolton Rd, Rosebank.
2. Braamfie Runners
Braamfie Runners is still in the business of welcoming everyone in and outside Braamfontein, as no sign-up is needed. Weekly runs happen on Sat from 06:00. All runs start from 153 Smit Street and continue into surrounding areas such as Auckland Park, Westcliff, and Milkpark. Follow @braamfierunners on Instagram.
Meet at 153 Smit Service Road, Braamfontein.
3. ParkRun
ParkRun is two decades strong and brings hundreds of runners to Joburg's parks to take part in their weekly 5km running events (usually held every Sat at 08:00). These events are free and a great opportunity to get out and about early in the morning. No matter your fitness level, you'll usually find somebody going at your pace. Many people also choose to walk the ParkRun. Joburg parks and nature reserves that host ParkRun events include Modderfontein Nature Reserve and Delta Park.
Find your nearest ParkRun here.
4. #Letthepeoplerun aka Run Tell That
#Letthepeoplerun is a group of road and trail runners who take part in weekly jaunts on Mon – Thu evenings at 17:25 and Fri mornings at 06:00 , departing from Starbucks at Rosebank Mall. Distances range from 4 –15km, with run types varying: easy recovery, zig-zag routes, and tempo runs. On Sun , you can join the group for a dedicated training run from 15–30km. Follow @run_tell_that on Instagram for bonus runs and tips.
Meet at Starbucks Rosebank, Corner Tyrwhitt and Cradock Avenues, Rosebank.
5. The Pack
The Pack is a running club with women in mind that also takes off from Rosebank. The Pack dominates the streets of Joburg with their weekly women-only runs at 07:00 on Sat . The Pack hopes to create a comfortable, safe, and empowering space for women while motivating each other along the way. Zama and Zonke Mthethwa , founders of The Pack, said in an interview for Superbalist's blog that the club is about "Creating connections and friendships, all through this simple act of running." Follow @thepackrunning for updates on runs as well as safety and health tips.
Meet at the Nike Store at The Zone @ Rosebank.
6. Pirates Road Running Club
"For runners, be they quick or slow." The long-standing Pirates Road Running Club forms part of the Pirates Club , located between Parkhurst and Greenside. Time trials, which are 5 – 8km, happen every Tue at 17:45 and leave from the Pirates Bowling Club car park, opposite the entrance. Alternatively, take part in their Homerun series on Thu at 17:45 and Sun at 07:00 . Non-members are welcome to join the run.
Meet at 25 Braeside St, Greenside.
