The downfall of run clubs? How capitalism has hijacked the community

September 13, 2024

A few months back, the New York Times branded running clubs the latest substitute for dating apps, capturing a growing trend that gained momentum as the pandemic upended our social lives. Run clubs offer people a way to connect in the real world, away from the confines of our phones.

But the revival of run clubs isn’t as simple as it seems. What started as community-focused gatherings is slowly but surely being transformed into yet another business opportunity.

While the idea of connecting through physical activity isn’t new, what’s changed is the way these spaces are being co-opted by commercial interests. As the fitness and lifestyle industries expand, some run clubs have begun to shift from community-driven efforts to profit-oriented ventures. It raises a critical question: Why do so many genuine attempts at building community eventually turn into business opportunities? Independent