Queer Runnings started with a single post on Instagram on the 13th February 2021 (I know, totally should have waited another day. Fancy not setting up a queer running club on Valentines Day!) stating. WE ARE LIVE! There was no ‘we’ yet, it was just me but I was pretty confident there was a need for something like this.
I wanted to create a space for queer runners (and aspiring runners) who, for whatever reason, didn’t have access to inclusive running communities. Mainly because I figured I couldn’t be the only one who was tired of feeling like the only queer on the trails, or the only one fed up of all the queer spaces existing in towns and cities - places I didn’t want to live in or travel.
As it turns out, I was right! People began to join and the club slowly started to grow into what it is today. While I can take credit for starting it, it’s the members who should take credit for turning into such a warm and welcoming space.
So many running clubs are places where many queer people feel unwelcome, uncomfortable or are actively excluded. My hope is that this club goes some small way towards changing that.
The Story of Queer Runnings
This is something a lot of people wonder. Often people assume we are just a glorified Facebook group but I promise you, it’s so much more than that.
In fact, we probably have more opportunities to hang out together than many traditional running clubs.
We might not meet up every week to run in the same place, but we do meet regularly on video calls where we chat, catch up and generally spend time together. Sometimes we talk about running… sometimes we don’t. And just when I think the conversations couldn’t possibly get more random, someone always proves me wrong!
Alongside that, our community forum is open 24/7. People share training updates, wins, wobbles, questions and encouragement. The kindness, joy and support in the group is wonderful.
And occasionally, members organise to meet up and run together in the wild, which is always particularly joyful!
But how does a virtual run club actually work?
Hear from the members…
Why did you join Queer Runnings?
“The coaching was what initiated joining, as this was a clearer & easier thing to engage with (& the social/community aspects were a big unknown before joining)”
- Suki (xy/xyr)
“There were no queer running clubs in my area and I worry about running with people sometimes due to pace. Also I like to disappear into my own world/head space when running so although sometimes I do enjoy a social run mostly I prefer running by myself.”
- Cedar (they/them)
“I like not being bound to in-person events as the main form of association.”
- Lauren (she/they)
What do you like most about Queer Runnings?
“It's a lovely queer space & I've gotten to meet people who I never would have met otherwise. The sharing of knowledge is really helpful & everyone engages enthusiastically. The accountability channel where you can get encouragement etc. is super helpful. Love the social calls every week.”
- Suki (xy/xyr)
“That there is zero competitiveness/macho behaviour....well zero competitiveness UNTIL the Christmas challenges start! Oooo and the dot watching channel! And 5 wins .... basically all of it!”
- Cedar (they/them)
“The Discord! (our club forum). It’s a lovely community.”
- Lauren (she/they)