Ever heard of the phrase ‘runner’s high’? It’s a deeply euphoric state that is achieved following intense exercise. A glorious, all-consuming feeling that leaves the person craving more. And, best of all, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to achieve this shot of pure joy, you just have to lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement. Which is why more and more people are joining run clubs—to not only give them the push to keep going but for the awesome community vibes and sense of camaraderie it brings.
But if the fear of actually getting started on your running journey has held you back in the past, you’re not alone. A recent study found 41% of women surveyed haven’t joined a run club because they fear they’re not quick enough, and a further 17% said they find them intimidating. Sound familiar? Then you’re going to want to get familiar with KICRUN, an eight-week, uber inclusive run club from Kic founders, Laura Henshaw and Steph Claire Smith and the legends at New Balance.
Joining forces for the second time, the 100% free run club will take place in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide, and is all about having fun, overcoming self-doubt and supporting your fellow runners, every step of the way. Because, one of the best things about running is, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or your level of sporting prowess, it’s just about giving it a go, and running your own way.
To join, simply register at one of the below clubs, which kick off Saturday 23 March. Bring your mates or come solo and make new friends—everyone is welcome. Better yet, lock in a spot for Melbourne and Sydney's hero KICRUN events to run with Steph and Laura and level up your running.
Registered but not sure what kit you need? Start with comfy, breathable clothing and some decent sun protection (hat and sunnies for those UV rays people). As for your trotters, opt for something super supportive. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 are actual clouds for your feet. The perfect kicks for all running abilities, the engineered mesh makes for a streamlined design (aka chic as hell) and are super breathable, essential for our climate. Learn more about New Balance and the Fresh Foam 1080v13 here.
Melbourne
Join your run club leader Emily as you take off from Como Park and trot along the Yarra River. Post run, stick around for a coffee and have a yarn to your new best mates. Swap running tips and share your fave playlists to pound the pavement to.
Where: Como Park, 305-325 Williams Road, South Yarra, VIC
Start time: 7am
Distance: 3-4K
Duration: 8 weeks, kicking off 23 March
To join, head here.
Meet The Kic Crew
Join Melbourne's KICRUN on the Saturday 13 April alongside Kic co-founders Steph and Laura where you'll be able to try New Balance’s signature X 1080v13 running shoe on for size. This special event will be a highlight in the run club calendar and the chance for you to score extra tips to level-up your running.
Sydney
Lace up your runners and make tracks to Centennial Park where you’ll find your run club leader Sissi. Power walk, jog or burn the rubber—whatever your pace, no one will be left behind at this run club. When you’ve come down from your runner’s high, stick around for a smoothie and get familiar with your new crew.
Where: Centennial Homestead, 1 Grand Drive, Centennial Park, NSW
Start time: 7am
Distance: 3-4K
Duration: 8 weeks, kicking off 23 March
To join, head here.
Meet The Kic Crew
Join Sydney's KICRUN on the Saturday 11 May alongside Kic co-founders Steph and Laura where you'll be able to try New Balance’s signature 1080v13 running shoe on for size. This special event will be a highlight in the run club calendar and the chance for you to score extra tips to level-up your running.
Brisbane
Beneath the hustle and bustle of the iconic Story Bridge, join your run club leader Jo, as your and your new running gang go for a trot along the Brisbane River. Soak up the glorious views, and challenge yourself to keep the pace with the runner in front of you. After your calf burn sesh, join your fellow runners for a smooth brew and chat.
Where: Captain Burke Park, 117 Holman Street Kangaroo Point, QLD
Start time: 6:30am
Distance: 3-4K
Duration: 8 weeks, kicking off 23 March
To join, head here.
Adelaide
Trot through the botanic gardens, past Adelaide Zoo with your new running pals and run club leader, Samantha. Pick up running tips and compare your kicks with your fellow runners, AKA your new besties, afterwards with a cuppa at a nearby cafe.
Where: Adelaide Plant 4, 5 Third Street, Bowden SA
Start time: 7am
Distance: 3-4K
Duration: 8 weeks, kicking off 23 March
To join, head here.
Can’t make it to a IRL run club? Run your way with KICRUN’s 3, 5, 10 and 21km run programs guided by Laura. To download the app, head here. And while you’re at it, check out New Balance on socials, by visiting @newbalance, and the Kic crew, at @kic.app.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to run your own way. We’ll see you on the pavement.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with New Balance. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Images: Supplied.