With the warmer weather on the way, many Torontonians will be taking up outdoor running or returning to their old habits. There aren’t many brave souls in Toronto who run in winter. I see them every year, and every year I have enormous respect for their motivation and discipline. Running is a great way to get your body moving and stay in shape, but it can also be a great way to meet new people. I’ve put together a list of running clubs in Toronto with all the information you need to make your choice. At the end of the article, you’ll also find a summary table of running clubs organized by day, to help you choose a club that works with your schedule.
Always check the groups’ social networks to make sure the information in this article is always up to date.
Before you go any further, don’t forget to find me on Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube.
Why join a running club?
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, you may be wondering what the point of joining a running club is? If you’re like me before running in a group, you might be thinking that you’d rather be independent, not dependent on other people’s schedules, going at your own pace. The good news is that there are so many running clubs in Toronto (I didn’t expect to find so many when I started this list) that one of them is bound to fit your schedule.
Apart from the obvious reason of keeping you fit, there’s also a big benefit to exercising in a group: the strength of the group helps us to go beyond our limits. I was always surprised at how much I could run in a group vs. on my own. Another side not to be overlooked, especially in a big city like Toronto: sociability! You’ll be able to meet new people, outside your own circle. It’s an opportunity to make new acquaintances with whom you share an activity in common.
It’s also important to note that you don’t have to go every week. It may be something you add from time to time, in addition to your usual activities, for a change of pace and atmosphere.
And my final argument to convince you (if you haven’t already) is to improve or prepare for a race. Many of these clubs focus on specific goals: your first 10km, a half marathon, a marathon. Having this community and support to accompany you in this state can be a plus that makes all the difference.
The complete list of running clubs in Toronto
All clubs are different. If your first try doesn’t work out, come back to this list and embark on a new experience with another.
Unity Fitness
Unity Fitnessis a gym that offers an incredible number of options. You can go to hot pilates/hot yoga classes, cycling, you can go to the pool or take advantage of the machines. And on sunny days, you can join them for a run by the lake.
When ? Wednesday at 5:45pm and Sunday at 9:30am
Where ? 120 Downes St
Distance : Wednesday at 5:45pm and Sunday at 9:30am + workout at the gym
Price : Free
Registration : If you’re registered for the room, sign up in the Unity app, otherwise you can just turn up on the day in the lobby.
➡️ I’ve taken part in their running sessions several times and the atmosphere is always great. People talk easily, and I’ve found everyone super welcoming.
Girls run the Six
Girls Run the Six is a 100% women’s running club launched by two Toronto women with a passion for running. They met while running, became friends… and wanted to open up their circle to other female runners.
I met them at an event: they’re super nice, and the atmosphere in their group is just like them – caring, motivating and pressure-free.
When ? Friday mornings at 6.45 a.m.
Where ? Queens Quay & Stadium Road
Distance : Around 6 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A great club to meet new friends, discover Toronto at sunrise, and start the weekend off on the right foot!
Team Ultra Black
Team UltraBlack was born during the pandemic, when a group of friends started running together. It wasn’t long before the desire arose to create a real community: a space to connect, support and move together.
Their mission? To celebrate diversity, encourage mental and physical well-being, and bring racialized people together around sport in a caring and inclusive environment.
They offer more than just a running club, they also have a book club, workshops and take part in various races. Their full program is on Instagram.
When ? Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
Where ? Princes’ Gates
Distance : 3/4km, 5km et 7km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point. Infos via @team.ultrablack
➡️ If you’re not in Toronto, they also have two other options: Mississauga and Hamilton, with all the info you need about meeting points on Instagram.
Parkdale Road Runners
Parkdale Road Runners looks like a very active group that meets on the west side of town to run between 4 and 10 kilometers, depending on your level. Their group looks dynamic and fun!
When ? Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
Where ? Stay Gold (124 Brock Avenue)
Distance : 4-6km or 7-10km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Not a bad option if you’re between the two distances, perhaps the group effect will push you to run more than expected!
Queer Run Club
Le Queer Run Club meets every Saturday to run in a fun, non-competitive environment. And above all, an inclusive community, a welcoming space for Toronto’s queer community.
When ? Saturday at 9:20 a.m.
Where ? Ethica Coffee Roaster, 213 Sterling Rd
Distance : 5km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A great option if you’re looking for a friendly, high-energy band.
I don’t run club
I don’t run club has a name that makes it sound like this group doesn’t run. But the idea is to encourage everyone to run. The club was founded by former athletes who didn’t like running and managed to find a way to enjoy it. They now share that joy with the rest of the group.
When ? Saturday at 10:30 a.m.
Where ? The meeting point changes all the time, check out their Instagram
Distance : 5km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A very good option for beginners and those who run for pleasure, without having a race in mind.
Run the Beaches
If you’re in the Beaches area, I also have a running club for you: Run the Beaches. And perfect for those who want to run a little later, to enjoy the beautiful summer evenings.
When ? Wednesdays at 7.50pm
Where ? Queen St et Northern Dancer Blvd
Distance : not shared on their social media
Price : Free
Registration :No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Probably one of the coolest places to run in Toronto. Go for it if you’re in the area.
Black Toe Running
Black Toe Runningis an independent boutique specializing in running. They are super sharp in their knowledge of the sport and can share their expertise with you. In addition to their physical store, they have an online store, and on top of all that they offer community events like running clubs twice a week in downtown Toronto.
When ? Friday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 8:30 a.m.
Where ? Black Toe Running, 95 Bathurst Street
Distance : Friday between 7 and 15 km, Sunday between 12 and 24 km
Price : Free
Registration : check info on their website
➡️ A very good option for people who want to improve their performance and are looking for something more intense.
Lululemon Run Club
Lululemon is a Canadian brand with a worldwide reputation. In addition to their products, which are adored by sports enthusiasts, I find that they are very good at community development. For the record, when I first moved to Toronto, I used to go to Lululemon’s free yoga classes. As a newcomer, I didn’t have a big budget, but the free classes allowed me to do yoga and meet people!
I digress, but all that to say that Lululemon has a great sense of community and brings sports enthusiasts together.
When ? Monday at 6 p.m.
Where ? Lululemon store, 318 Queen Street West
Distance : Between 5 and 8 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A great club to run in the heart of the city, meet other enthusiasts and start the week with a good dose of energy. Find out more on their Instagram.
Piccolo Run club
Then off to Piccolo Run Club. I love their café on Adelaide and John, the terrace is really nice. Super surprised to discover while doing my research that they also have a running club. According to their Instagram, races resume on April 26!
When ? Thursday, 8:30 a.m.
Where ? In front of Piccolo Caffee, 111 John Street
Distance : Between 5 to 8 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ From what I’ve seen in the photos, it’s a smaller group than the others, but it’s very social and offers lots of activities on the side.
Portland Runners Toronto
Right in the heart of the city, find another running club in Toronto: les Portland Runners. The group is more intimate, which can be nice for people who are a little more shy. It’s less impressive!
When ? Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Where ? Ace Hotel Toronto, Camden & Brant
Distance : Wednesdayi: 8km et Saturday 12km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Ideal if you prefer a smaller group.
Long boat Road Runners
It’s probably the oldest club on this list! The Long boat Road Runners club was founded in 1980. Imagine how many kilometers the members have run in all that time. They tend to focus on longer runs, with a minimum of 12km, ideal for those looking to run further afield.
When ? Wednesday at 6 p.m., Sunday at 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Where ? Wednesday: University Settlement and Sunday: 8am at St Clair & Vaughn Road, 9am at University Settlement
Distance : Wednesdays between 12 and 16km and Sundays between 12 and 32km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ On the first Wednesday of every month, they get together for a drink after the race!
Midnight Runners
This is perhaps one of Toronto’s largest running communities. According to their website, they have over 10,000 active members worldwide. They are present in 18 cities. If you’re traveling, you could even run with people who belong to this group on the other side of the planet. It’s pretty cool! The atmosphere is really dynamic, with loud music and a motivational coach!
Their offer is so wide that the info below won’t help you much. Check out their website to discover their options. Between long runs, their famous bootcamp and run and various events, you’re sure to find something to suit you!
When ? Several options during the week
Where ? Location variable, announced in advance
Distance : Approximately 6 to 10 km, with exercises along the way
Price : Free
Registration : registrations are made on their application
➡️ From what I’ve seen in the photos, it’s a smaller group than the others, but it’s very social and offers lots of activities on the side.
Me Versus Me
Me Versus Me is a running club focused on inclusivity and mental well-being. They really emphasize community, but also self-improvement. If you’re looking to push yourself beyond your limits, or need a little encouragement to go further: this club is for you!
When ? Thursday, 7:15 p.m.
Where ? Canoe Landing
Distance : 5 or 7 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point. They also have a WhatsApp group for news. All the info is on Instagram.
➡️ They also organize races in Montreal and take part in various events!
The Runners Shop
The Runners Shop is a specialty running store that offers running in the Bloor and Spadina neighborhoods. They emphasize the social side of running!
When ? Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 a.m., Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Where ? The Runners Shop
Distance : Saturday 6km and the other two days they are on long distances
Price : Free
Registration : You can read all about it on their website.
➡️ Great if you want to alternate between distances.
Running Rats
Founded in 2002, the Running Rats club is more suitable for people who already have a certain level, since they ask you to be able to run 7km comfortably before joining them.
When ? Tuesdays at 6:15 p.m.
Where ? Eaton Centre, next to Swarovski
Distance : 7, 10 or 12 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Very central and not bad if you already have a good rhythm but want to take it to the next level.
Front Runners Toronto
So happy to see that there’s a second 2slgtbtq+ running club in Toronto! It’s essential that everyone can find a group that suits them and a community where they feel at home. Front Runners Toronto exists in several cities around the world, it’s a running group sponsored by Puma and inspired by Patricia Nell Warren’s book: The Front Runner!
Quand ? Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Where ? 519 Church St
Distance : distances vary between 3, 5, 6, 8 and 10km, but some do more.
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A good option for people who want to take advantage of the group’s energy to run more than they think they can. In a friendly atmosphere.
Beer Run Run Club
Here’s a completely different concept that’s sure to delight beer lovers. This unique running club lives up to its name, Beer Run Run Club, by offering you a run at a relaxed pace and the chance to extend the conversation over a beer. It’s a bit like the running version of people who go to the gym mainly for the third half. They combine sport and socializing to great effect.
When ? Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Where ? Location varies across the city, check out their Instagram for info.
Distance : 5 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Every week the route changes, and so does the brasserie. In addition to meeting new people, you’ll discover new neighborhoods and new bars!
Curre Club
I like them to explain the meaning behind their name. Curre is the Latin word for running. It’s pronounced kur(ə), but they pronounce it as “cure”, because that’s what running means to them. Curre club is a very social, early-morning group!
Quand ? Friday morning at 6 a.m.
Where ? Neo Coffee, King and Spadina
Distance : 6-7 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point. More info on Instagram.
➡️ A good option for early risers who want to meet new people.
Night Terrors Run
Night Terrors Run is a running club that was created in Toronto in 2013 by a few girlfriends. At the time, there were no running clubs offering races after 8pm. They started running among themselves, then over the years the circle widened. Today the club welcomes all levels to create a motivating and committed community.
When ? Mondays at 7 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays to be confirmed on their Instagram and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Where ? Location confirmed on their Facebook group
Distance : 3, 5, 10 km
Price : Free except some events
Registration : Registration required even for free events, see their website for more info.
➡️ Rather practical for people who want to run later in the day.
The Breakfast Club Run Crew
There’s something for every day and every schedule. After an early evening option, here’s an early day option. At the crack of dawn. For those who get up early and like to start the day having already exercised. And their name is really cool too: The Breakfast Club Run Crew.
When ? Thursday at 6 a.m.
Where ? in front of Morning Parade Coffee, 256 Crawford St
Distance : not precise, but you can follow their Instagram for more info
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A good option for people who want to start the day with a good workout!
Run to beer
You’re not dreaming, if you can’t join the first running club with beer, maybe this second option will fit your schedule better. You might be able to join Run to beer. Their site doesn’t have much info so I can’t tell you much more, but follow them on the networks for more info!
Quand ? First Saturday of every month
Where ? Variable, check out their Instagram for more info
Distance : 3, 5, 10 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A good option for meeting people during and after the run.
Running Room
Running Room is a Canada-wide running store. You can join their running clubs across the country. They offer races in each of their stores. Apparently they also have training groups, which can be interesting if you’re preparing for a race.
When ? Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for both Toronto locations
Where ? Their boutiques in the Beaches or High Park, here’s all the info
Distance : no distance displayed but they indicate from 18h to 19h15
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A good option for runners preparing for a race.
Rogue Runners
Rogue Runners was created in 2015 can be found in High Park, we agree there are worse places to run. Taking part is free and instead of paying a subscription they encourage you to support causes close to their hearts such as The 519, Black Women in Motion or Building Roots Toronto among others. A very good deed on their part!
When ? Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30 p.m., Sundays at 8:30 a.m.
Where ? North High Park gates (Bloor St and High Park Ave)
Distance : Wednesday and Friday: 6 to 12km and Sunday: 12 to 32km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A good option for runners in the west of the city.
Eastbound Runs
Eastbound Runs is a group that seems to breathe good atmosphere, they really want to welcome all levels. Their aim is to encourage everyone to run.
When ? Mondays at 6:30 p.m.
Where ? 700 Queen St East
Distance : 8 or 5km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ Ideal for those looking for the social aspect, as they always start and finish in a brasserie!
Chick Run The 6ix
Chick Run The 6ix was created in 2020 after four friends went running together. They wanted to create this community to enable everyone to be able to run, whatever their level. They don’t have a designated day like most of the clubs shared in this article. Follow them on Instagram for info on upcoming races.
When ? Variable
Where ? Variable
Distance : Variable
Price : Free
Registration : Find out more on their Facebook group.
➡️ IIdeal for beginners!
We run North York
We Run North York is a welcoming running club for all levels, with a variety of races ranging from long-distance to interval training.
When ? Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 7.45 a.m.
Where ? Scotiabank at the South East corner, Bayview village maill
Distance : Wednesday: 1h with exercises between the run and Saturday: 15, 10 and 5km
Price : Free
Registration : Registration required on Strava.
➡️ Plenty of options to encourage as many runners as possible!
Toronto Running Club
It’s still one of Toronto’s oldest running clubs: Toronto Running Club has been around since 1995! It’s pretty cool because they offer several options during the week. The routes also change when the weather’s nice, so you can discover other parts of the city. And they’ll run in any weather – they’re just the kind of people I look up to when I see them running in the rain or snow!
When ? Mondays at 6 p.m., Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Where ? North Toronto Memorial Community Centre
Distance : Monday: 5km, Wednesday: 10km and Saturday: 10km
Price : Free
Inscription : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A well-established group, ideal for meeting new people.
Small World Run Club
I didn’t think there could be so many running clubs in Toronto, but I’m glad to see you have so many options. All these options will help you find your community for sure! Small World Run Club is a club in the lovely Trinity Bellwoods neighborhood that explores the surrounding area.
When ? Saturday morning at 9 a.m.
Where ? Queen & Gore Vale Avenue, Trinity Bellwoods, au sud est du croisement
Distance : between 7 and 9 km
Price : Free
Registration : No need to register, just turn up at the meeting point.
➡️ A smaller, less intimidating group if you’re new to group racing.
When to run in Toronto? Run club per day
Need to view availability over a week? Here’s a schedule of running clubs in Toronto, sorted by day. Ideal for organizing your week or trying out different groups!
| Monday | Lululemon Run Club (6pm) Night Terrors Run (7pm) Eastbound Runs (6:30pm) Toronto Running Club (6pm) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Team Ultra Black (7pm) Running Rats (6:15pm) Parkdale Road Runners (7pm) Front Runners Toronto (6:15pm) Beer Run Run Club (6:30pm) |
| Wednesday | Unity Fitness (5:45pm) Run the Beaches (7:50pm) Portland Runners Toronto (6:30pm) Long Boat Road Runners (6pm) Portland Runners Toronto (6:30pm) Running Room (6pm) Rogue Runners (6:30pm) We run North York (6:30pm) Toronto Running Club (6:30pm) |
| Thursday | Piccolo Run Club (8:30am) Me Versus Me (7:15pm) The Runners Shop (6:30pm) Front Runners Toronto (6:15pm) The Breakfast Club Run Crew (6am) |
| Friday | Girls Run the Six (6:45am) Black Toe Running (6pm) Curre Club (6am) |
| Saturday | Queer Run Club (9:20am) I don’t run club (10:30am) Portland Runners Toronto (9am) The Runners Shop (8:30am) Portland Runners Toronto (9am) Night Terrors Run (9am) We Run North York Toronto Running Club (9am) Small World Run Club (9am) |
| Sunday | Unity Fitness (9am) Black Toe Running (8:30am) Long Boat Road Runners (8am and 9am) The Runners Shop (8:30am) Rogue Runners (8:30am) |
If you’ve read this far, congratulations! I really hope this list helps you find your running community and find the right running clubs in Toronto for you. Feel free to contact me on Instagram or leave a comment if you have a running club in Toronto and it’s not on the list. Don’t hesitate to read this article on 50 fun date ideas in Toronto.
Have a great race!
