Finding Your Community: How to Connect with Other Runners (In Person and Virtually)

Joining Local Running Clubs

Local running clubs are the bedrock of in-person running communities. They are organized groups of runners who meet regularly for training runs, social events, and often, to support local races. Joining a running club is one of the most direct and rewarding ways to connect with fellow runners in your area.

How to Find Local Clubs

Finding a local running club is easier than you might think. Start with a simple online search using terms like "[your city/town] running club" or "[your county] runners group." Websites like the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) often have directories of affiliated clubs. Community centers, local gyms, and specialty running stores are also excellent resources. Check their websites or bulletin boards for information on local running groups. Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth! Ask around at your workplace, among your friends, or at your favorite coffee shop. You might be surprised to find runners hiding in plain sight. Local community boards, both physical ones in libraries or community centers and online forums like Nextdoor or Facebook groups, can also be valuable sources of information about local running clubs and groups.

Benefits of Joining

The benefits of joining a running club are plentiful. Firstly, they provide regular, structured group runs. Many clubs offer runs several times a week, catering to different paces and distances. This structure can be incredibly helpful for maintaining consistency and progressing in your training. Secondly, running clubs foster camaraderie and social connection. Beyond the runs themselves, clubs often organize social events like post-run breakfasts, holiday gatherings, or volunteer opportunities at races. These events create a strong sense of community and provide opportunities to build friendships with fellow runners. Thirdly, many clubs offer structured training sessions and coaching. Some clubs have certified coaches who lead workouts, provide training plans, and offer advice on running-related topics. This can be particularly beneficial for runners looking to improve their performance or train for specific races. Finally, running clubs often have discounts and perks. Some clubs offer discounts on race entries, running gear at local stores, or membership to partner organizations. These perks can help offset the cost of membership and provide additional value.

Choosing the Right Club

With potentially multiple running clubs in your area, how do you choose the right one? Consider your running goals and preferences. Are you a competitive runner looking for a fast-paced training group? Or are you a beginner seeking a more casual and social running environment? Some clubs cater specifically to marathoners, trail runners, or beginners. Check the club's website or social media to get a sense of their focus and typical activities. Look at the club's schedule and location. Do their run times and locations fit your schedule and geographical convenience? A club that meets far away or at inconvenient times might be difficult to attend regularly. Consider the club's size and atmosphere. Some runners prefer large, bustling clubs with lots of social events, while others prefer smaller, more intimate groups. Visit a few club runs as a guest before committing to membership to get a feel for the club's vibe and see if it's a good fit for you. Don't be afraid to try out a few different clubs before making a decision. Most clubs offer a trial period or allow guests to join a few runs before requiring membership. This allows you to experience different club cultures and find the one where you feel most comfortable and connected.

Participating in Local Races

Local races are more than just opportunities to test your fitness; they are vibrant hubs of the running community. From 5Ks to marathons, local races bring together runners of all levels, creating a shared experience of challenge, accomplishment, and camaraderie. Participating in races is a fantastic way to meet other runners and forge lasting connections.

Races as Community Builders

Local races are inherently community-focused events. They often support local charities, involve community volunteers, and showcase the spirit of the area. The atmosphere at a local race is typically supportive and encouraging, regardless of your pace or experience level. Everyone is there to celebrate running and personal achievement. The shared experience of running a race – the pre-race jitters, the collective start, the cheering crowds, the finish line exhilaration – creates an instant bond among participants. You're all in it together, pushing yourselves and supporting each other along the way. Many local races have post-race festivities, such as food vendors, music, and awards ceremonies. These provide relaxed settings to mingle with other runners, compare race experiences, and celebrate your accomplishments. Don't underestimate the power of the post-race buzz to spark conversations and connections.

Strategies for Meeting Runners at Races

Races provide numerous opportunities to strike up conversations and meet fellow runners. Before the race, while waiting in the starting corral or stretching, strike up conversations with runners around you. Comment on their race bib, their shoes, or the weather. A simple "Is this your first time running this race?" or "What are you hoping to achieve today?" can be great icebreakers. During the race, if you find yourself running alongside someone at a similar pace, consider chatting with them. Acknowledge their effort, offer words of encouragement, or simply ask how their race is going. Shared miles can quickly turn into shared conversations. After the race, at the finish line or in the post-race area, congratulate fellow finishers. Ask about their race experience, their training, or their future running goals. Many runners are eager to share their stories and connect with others who understand their passion. Volunteer at local races. Volunteering is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the race community without actually running. You'll meet other volunteers, interact with runners, and gain a deeper appreciation for the race atmosphere. Volunteering can lead to connections with both runners and organizers, opening doors to further community involvement.

Diversity of Races

Local races come in a wide variety of distances and formats, ensuring there's something for everyone. 5Ks and 10Ks are perfect for beginners and those looking for shorter, faster races. They are often very community-oriented and attract a diverse range of runners. Half marathons and marathons are longer distance challenges that draw more experienced runners. Training for and running these races can forge strong bonds with fellow runners who are also tackling these distances. Trail races offer a different kind of running experience, often in scenic natural settings. Trail running communities tend to be very supportive and inclusive, emphasizing camaraderie and adventure. Themed races and fun runs add a playful element to running, often incorporating costumes, obstacles, or unique challenges. These races are great for social runners and those who enjoy a more lighthearted approach to racing. Explore the race calendars in your area and try out different types of races to find the events and communities that resonate with you most.

Exploring Meetup Groups and Running Events

Beyond structured running clubs and formal races, there's a wealth of informal running groups and events that can be discovered through platforms like Meetup.com and local event listings. These groups often offer a more casual and flexible approach to community running, catering to diverse interests and schedules.

Using Meetup.com

Meetup.com is a fantastic online platform for discovering groups based on shared interests, including running. Simply search for "running" in your city or town, and you'll likely find a variety of running groups catering to different levels, interests, and locations. Meetup groups offer a more flexible and informal way to run with others compared to traditional running clubs. There are often no membership fees or commitments, allowing you to participate as your schedule allows. Many Meetup running groups organize casual weekly runs, often at varying locations and times. This variety can be appealing if you have a busy schedule or enjoy exploring different running routes. Meetup groups often cater to specific niches or interests within running. You might find groups focused on trail running, social running, beginner runners, or even running with dogs. This allows you to connect with runners who share your particular passions. Many Meetup groups also organize social events beyond running, such as happy hours, picnics, or hiking trips. These events help build community and foster friendships outside of running. Read the group descriptions and member reviews on Meetup to get a sense of the group's vibe and focus before attending your first event. Look for groups that align with your running level, interests, and social preferences.

Types of Running Events on Meetup

Meetup and similar platforms host a wide range of running events, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Casual group runs are the most common type of event, often scheduled weekly or bi-weekly. These runs are typically pace-based, welcoming runners of all levels, and often followed by coffee or breakfast. Trail runs and hikes are popular for those who enjoy off-road adventures. These events often explore local trails and scenic natural areas, combining running with nature exploration. Speed workouts and interval sessions are organized for runners looking to improve their speed and performance. These workouts are often led by experienced runners or coaches and provide structured training in a group setting. Themed runs and fun runs add a playful element to group running. These events might involve costumes, scavenger hunts, or running for a specific cause. They are great for social runners and those looking for a fun and lighthearted running experience. Social gatherings and workshops are non-running events organized by running groups to build community and share knowledge. These might include potlucks, gear swaps, running clinics, or injury prevention workshops. Explore the event calendars of different Meetup groups to find events that spark your interest and fit your schedule.

Tips for Your First Meetup

Attending your first meetup can feel a bit daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can make the most of it. Introduce yourself to the group organizer and other attendees. Most running groups are very welcoming to newcomers, and organizers are usually happy to introduce you to other members. Don't be afraid to run at your own pace. Most groups cater to a range of paces, and no one will pressure you to run faster than you're comfortable with. Find a group running at a pace that feels good for you and enjoy the conversation and company. Ask questions and engage in conversation. Meetups are all about connecting with others, so don't be shy about asking questions about running routes, training tips, or local races. Share your own running experiences and interests to contribute to the conversation. Be open to different types of runs and groups. You might not find your perfect running community on your first try. Attend a few different meetups to explore different group dynamics and find the one where you feel most comfortable and connected. Follow up with people you meet. If you connect with someone at a meetup, exchange contact information and suggest running together again in the future. Building lasting relationships takes time and effort, so be proactive in nurturing new connections.

Online Running Communities and Forums

Online running forums and communities have been a cornerstone of the virtual running world for years. Platforms like Reddit, Runner's World forums, and dedicated running websites host vibrant communities where runners of all levels gather to discuss training, gear, races, injuries, and everything in between. These online spaces offer a wealth of information, support, and connection.

Popular Online Platforms

Reddit's r/running subreddit is one of the largest and most active online running communities. With millions of members, it's a hub for sharing training advice, race reports, gear reviews, and motivational stories. The subreddit is well-moderated and generally welcoming to runners of all levels. Runner's World forums are a classic online running community associated with the popular running magazine. These forums are organized into various categories, such as training, injuries, gear, and races, making it easy to find discussions relevant to your interests. The forums are known for their knowledgeable and experienced members. LetsRun.com forums are a more hardcore and performance-focused running forum. Known for its often blunt and sometimes controversial discussions, LetsRun is a place to delve deep into training theory, race strategy, and elite running news. It's best suited for more experienced and competitive runners. Facebook groups dedicated to running abound, catering to specific interests, locations, or demographics. Search for groups related to your city, your favorite race distance, or your running style (e.g., trail running, minimalist running) to find niche communities. Facebook groups offer a more social and interactive online experience compared to traditional forums. Dedicated running websites and blogs often have comment sections and forums where readers can interact and share their thoughts. These communities tend to be smaller and more focused on the specific topics covered by the website or blog.

Pros and Cons of Online Communities

Online running communities offer several advantages. Accessibility and global reach are key benefits. You can connect with runners from anywhere in the world, at any time, regardless of your location or schedule. Vast information resources are readily available. Online forums are treasure troves of information on almost any running-related topic. You can search for answers to your questions, learn from others' experiences, and access a wealth of collective knowledge. Anonymity and comfort for introverts can be appealing. Online communities can be a less intimidating way for shy or introverted runners to connect with others compared to in-person groups. You can participate at your own pace and level of comfort. However, there are also potential downsides. Lack of face-to-face interaction can limit the depth of relationships. While online connections can be valuable, they lack the nonverbal cues and physical presence of in-person interactions. Potential for misinformation and negativity exists in any online forum. Be critical of information you encounter online and seek advice from trusted sources. Some online communities can also be prone to negativity or unhelpful criticism. Time commitment and distraction can be a concern. Online forums can be addictive, and it's easy to spend excessive time browsing and engaging in discussions, potentially detracting from your actual running.

Engaging Effectively Online

To make the most of online running communities, engage thoughtfully and respectfully. Introduce yourself and be genuine. When joining a new online community, take a moment to introduce yourself and share a bit about your running journey and interests. Be authentic and contribute positively to the community. Ask specific and thoughtful questions. When seeking advice or information, formulate your questions clearly and provide relevant context. Vague or generic questions are less likely to elicit helpful responses. Share your experiences and contribute to discussions. Don't just be a passive consumer of information; actively participate by sharing your own running stories, tips, and insights. Contribute to discussions in a constructive and helpful manner. Be respectful and mindful of online etiquette. Treat online interactions with the same courtesy and respect you would in face-to-face conversations. Avoid negativity, personal attacks, or spamming. Follow the community guidelines and moderation policies. Verify information and be discerning. Not all information shared online is accurate or reliable. Be critical of advice you receive and cross-reference information with trusted sources, such as reputable running websites, coaches, or medical professionals. Protect your privacy and online safety. Be mindful of the personal information you share online and avoid engaging in risky online behaviors. Be cautious of unsolicited messages or requests from strangers.

Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have become incredibly popular avenues for runners to connect, share their journeys, find inspiration, and build virtual communities. These platforms offer visually rich and interactive ways to engage with fellow runners worldwide.

Utilizing Instagram and Facebook

Instagram is a visually driven platform ideal for sharing running photos, videos, and stories. Use relevant running hashtags like #running, #runnersofinstagram, #runhappy, #instarunners, and #[your city]runners to discover and connect with other runners. Follow running influencers, brands, and communities that inspire you. Engage with their content by liking, commenting, and sharing. Share your own running journey through photos and videos. Use hashtags to increase visibility and connect with runners who share your interests. Participate in running challenges and virtual races hosted on Instagram. These events often have dedicated hashtags that facilitate community interaction. Use Instagram Stories to share real-time updates from your runs and engage with followers through polls and Q&A sessions. Facebook, in addition to groups (mentioned earlier), is useful for connecting with running friends and family, and for following running pages and organizations. Share your running updates on your personal profile to connect with friends and family who are also runners or interested in your fitness journey. Follow pages of running magazines, brands, races, and clubs to stay informed and engaged with the broader running community. Participate in Facebook groups dedicated to running, as discussed in the previous section, for more focused community interaction. Use Facebook Events to find local races and running events and connect with other runners who are attending.

Finding the Right Hashtags and Groups

Hashtags and groups are essential tools for navigating the vastness of social media and finding your niche running community. Research relevant hashtags. Start with broad hashtags like #running and #runners, then explore more specific hashtags related to your interests, such as #trailrunning, #marathontraining, #womensrunning, #veganrunner, or #morningrun. Use hashtag research tools like Hashtagify or Ingramer to discover related and trending hashtags. Follow relevant hashtags on Instagram to see posts from runners around the world who are using those hashtags. This is a great way to discover new accounts and communities. Explore running-related Facebook groups. Use Facebook's search function to find groups related to your city, race distance, running style, or interests. Read the group descriptions and member numbers to get a sense of the group's focus and activity level. Join groups that align with your interests and goals. Don't be afraid to join multiple groups to explore different communities and find the ones that resonate with you most. Actively participate in groups by posting, commenting, and engaging with other members. Create your own hashtags for your personal running journey or for a running group you're part of. This can help build your personal brand and create a sense of community around your running activities.

Engaging and Building Your Network

Social media is a two-way street. To build a meaningful network, engage actively and authentically. Engage with content you enjoy. Like and comment on posts that resonate with you. Ask questions, offer encouragement, and share your own thoughts and experiences. Genuine engagement is key to building connections. Follow runners who inspire you. Seek out accounts that motivate you, provide valuable information, or share content you find engaging. Don't just follow passively; interact with their posts and build relationships. Share your own running journey authentically. Post photos and videos that reflect your real running experiences, both the highs and the lows. Be honest and relatable in your captions and stories. Authenticity attracts genuine connections. Respond to comments and messages on your own posts promptly and thoughtfully. Show appreciation for engagement and continue conversations. Building a network is about reciprocal interaction. Participate in running challenges and virtual events hosted on social media. These events provide opportunities to connect with other runners around a shared goal. Use event hashtags to find and engage with fellow participants. Be mindful of online etiquette and privacy. Maintain respectful and positive interactions online. Be cautious about sharing personal information publicly and adjust your privacy settings as needed.

Running Apps with Social Features

Many popular running apps, such as Strava and Nike Run Club, have integrated social features that allow you to connect with other runners, track each other's progress, participate in challenges, and build virtual running communities directly within the app you use for tracking your runs. These apps seamlessly blend running data with social interaction.

Popular Running Apps with Community Features

Strava is arguably the most popular running app with robust social features. Strava allows you to track your runs and rides using GPS, analyze your performance data, and share your activities with followers. The Strava feed is a social timeline where you can see your friends' and followers' activities, give kudos (Strava's version of likes), and leave comments. Strava Clubs are groups within the app that you can join to connect with runners who share your interests or location. Clubs often organize virtual challenges and events. Strava Challenges are virtual competitions that you can participate in to earn badges and compete with other runners. Challenges range from monthly distance goals to specific race events. Strava Segments are user-defined sections of roads or trails where runners can compete for the fastest time. Segment leaderboards add a competitive and gamified element to running. Nike Run Club (NRC) is another popular running app with strong community features, particularly focused on encouragement and guided runs. NRC offers guided runs led by Nike coaches and athletes that provide audio coaching and motivation during your runs. The NRC social feed allows you to share your runs, give cheers (NRC's version of likes), and comment on friends' activities. NRC Challenges are virtual competitions similar to Strava Challenges, often themed around specific goals or events. NRC Clubs are groups within the app that you can join to connect with other NRC users. NRC emphasizes a more positive and supportive community vibe compared to Strava's more competitive focus.

Joining Challenges and Connecting

Running app challenges are a great way to engage with the community and motivate yourself towards specific goals. Explore available challenges within your chosen running app. Challenges often focus on distance, time, elevation gain, or consistency. Choose challenges that align with your current goals and fitness level. Join challenges that interest you. Participating in challenges provides a shared goal with other runners and creates a sense of collective effort. Track your progress within the challenge and see how you rank against other participants. Challenges can add a fun competitive element to your training. Use challenge leaderboards to discover new runners to follow. See who's topping the leaderboards and explore their profiles. You might find runners with similar goals or paces who could become valuable connections. Engage with other challenge participants by giving kudos and leaving comments on their activities. Offer encouragement and celebrate each other's achievements. Share your challenge progress on social media using the app's sharing features. This can inspire your followers and attract new connections who are also participating in the same challenge or using the same app.

Sharing Achievements and Encouraging Others

Running apps make it easy to share your running achievements and support your fellow runners. Share your runs regularly on your app's social feed. Post updates after your workouts, long runs, or races. Include photos and descriptions to make your posts engaging. Sharing your journey inspires others and invites interaction. Give kudos and leave encouraging comments on your friends' and followers' activities. A little encouragement goes a long way in building community and fostering motivation. Celebrate others' achievements and offer support during challenging times. Use app features like virtual high fives or cheers (NRC) to send quick bursts of encouragement to your connections. These small gestures can brighten someone's day and strengthen your virtual bonds. Respond to comments and messages you receive on your own activities. Engage in conversations and show appreciation for the support you receive. Reciprocity is key to building strong virtual relationships. Create or join clubs within the app to connect with runners who share your interests or location. Club forums and group activities provide more focused community interaction within the app. Use app messaging features to connect with individual runners for more personal conversations or to arrange virtual run meetups. Direct messaging can deepen connections and facilitate more meaningful interactions.

Dealing with Shyness or Introversion

If you're naturally shy or introverted, the idea of joining a running group or striking up conversations with strangers might feel daunting. However, remember that many runners are welcoming and inclusive, and you don't have to be an extrovert to build meaningful connections. Here are strategies to navigate shyness and introversion in the running community.

Strategies for Hesitation

Start small and gradually. Don't feel pressured to jump into a large group run right away. Start by attending a smaller, more informal meetup or a casual group run with just a few people. Gradually work your way up to larger groups as you become more comfortable. Choose less intimidating environments. Opt for running events or groups that are known for being beginner-friendly or social-focused rather than highly competitive. Casual group runs, fun runs, or parkruns can be less intimidating than structured training sessions. Bring a friend for initial support. If possible, invite a friend to join you for your first running club meeting or meetup. Having a familiar face can make the experience less nerve-wracking and provide a sense of security. Focus on shared interests. Remember that you already have something in common with other runners – your passion for running. Use this shared interest as a starting point for conversations. Ask about their running experiences, training tips, or favorite routes. Prepare conversation starters beforehand. Think of a few simple questions or topics to initiate conversations. "How long have you been running?" "What's your favorite local running route?" "Are you training for any races?" Having a few icebreakers ready can ease the initial awkwardness. Reframe your mindset from focusing on your shyness to focusing on the potential benefits of connecting with others. Remind yourself of the motivational, social, and performance advantages of building a running community. Focus on what you stand to gain rather than your anxieties.

Tips for Starting Conversations

Initiating conversations can be challenging when you're shy, but with practice and a few simple techniques, it becomes easier. Smile and make eye contact. Nonverbal cues like smiling and making eye contact signal approachability and friendliness. These small gestures can make you seem more welcoming and encourage others to initiate conversation. Offer a friendly greeting. Start with a simple "Hi" or "Good morning" when you encounter other runners. A friendly greeting is a low-pressure way to acknowledge others and open the door for further interaction. Ask open-ended questions that encourage conversation rather than just yes/no answers. Instead of asking "Do you like running here?" ask "What do you enjoy most about running in this area?" Open-ended questions invite more detailed responses and spark conversation. Listen actively and show genuine interest in what others are saying. Pay attention to their responses, ask follow-up questions, and show that you're genuinely interested in learning about them and their running experiences. Active listening builds rapport and encourages further conversation. Share something about yourself to reciprocate and build connection. After asking questions and listening to others, share a bit about your own running journey, goals, or experiences. Reciprocity is key to building mutual connection. Join in on group conversations even if you don't initiate them. If you overhear a group conversation that interests you, find a natural opening to join in and contribute your thoughts or experiences. Participating in existing conversations can be less daunting than starting new ones. Don't be afraid of brief or imperfect interactions. Not every conversation needs to be deep or lengthy. Even short, friendly exchanges can contribute to building connections over time. Don't worry about saying the "wrong" thing; most runners are understanding and appreciative of any effort to connect.

Building Confidence Over Time

Building confidence in social situations, especially in a running community setting, is a gradual process. Celebrate small victories. Acknowledge and celebrate every step you take outside your comfort zone, whether it's attending a group run, starting a conversation, or sharing your running journey online. Recognize your progress and build on your successes. Practice social interactions regularly. The more you engage in social situations, the more comfortable and confident you'll become. Make a conscious effort to attend group runs, races, and social events regularly to practice your social skills in a running context. Focus on your strengths and positive qualities. Instead of dwelling on your shyness, focus on your strengths as a runner and as a person. Recognize your value and contributions to the running community, even if you're not the most outgoing person. Seek support and encouragement from others. Share your challenges and goals with trusted running friends or mentors. Seek their support and encouragement to help you overcome your shyness and build confidence. Be patient and kind to yourself. Building confidence takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged by setbacks or moments of self-doubt. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and keep practicing. Remember that vulnerability and authenticity are often appreciated in communities, and your genuine efforts to connect will likely be welcomed, even if you're naturally shy.

Finding the Right Fit

Just like running shoes, running communities are not one-size-fits-all. Finding the right community fit is crucial for long-term enjoyment and engagement. It's okay if the first group you try isn't a perfect match. Trial and error is a natural part of the process. Let's explore how to find a running community that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Importance of Trial and Error

Finding your ideal running community often involves trying out different groups and events until you find one that feels right. Expect to try multiple groups before finding your perfect fit. Don't be discouraged if the first running club or meetup you attend doesn't feel like the right place for you. It's normal to explore several options before finding your tribe. View each trial experience as valuable learning. Even if a group isn't the right fit, you can still learn something from the experience. Reflect on what you liked and disliked about each group to refine your preferences and better identify what you're looking for. Don't settle for a community that doesn't resonate with you. If you consistently feel uncomfortable, out of place, or unmotivated in a particular running community, it's okay to move on and continue your search. Settling for a community that doesn't align with your needs can hinder your enjoyment and engagement. Be open to different types of communities. Explore running clubs, meetup groups, online forums, and social media communities to experience a variety of community formats and cultures. You might be surprised by where you find your best fit. Allow time for relationships to develop within a new community. Building strong connections takes time. Give yourself and the new community a chance to develop relationships before making a final judgment. Attend several events and engage actively to see if you start to feel more connected over time.

Gracefully Moving On

If you realize a running community isn't the right fit for you, it's important to move on gracefully and respectfully. Recognize when a community isn't serving your needs. Pay attention to your feelings and experiences within the community. If you consistently feel drained, unmotivated, or disconnected, it might be a sign that it's not the right fit. Don't feel obligated to stay in a community out of guilt or politeness. Your well-being and running enjoyment are important. It's okay to prioritize your own needs and move on to a community that better aligns with your goals and preferences. Communicate your departure respectfully and professionally if necessary. If you're a member of a formal running club, consider informing the organizers of your decision to leave, especially if you've been actively involved. A brief and polite email or message is usually sufficient. Avoid negativity or public criticism when leaving a community. Focus on your own reasons for moving on without criticizing or blaming the community or its members. Maintain a positive and respectful tone in any communication about your departure. Express gratitude for positive aspects of your experience if applicable. Even if a community wasn't the right long-term fit, acknowledge any positive experiences or relationships you gained during your time there. Expressing gratitude maintains goodwill and positive connections. Leave the door open for future reconnection if appropriate. You never know when your paths might cross again with members of a community you've moved on from. Maintain positive relationships and leave the door open for potential future reconnection if circumstances change. Focus on finding a better fit rather than dwelling on past experiences. Once you've made the decision to move on, shift your focus to finding a running community that better aligns with your needs and preferences. Use your experiences to refine your search and identify what you're looking for in a running community.