Exercise is always more fun with a buddy, and plenty of Atlanta-area women are catching on. Whether it's training for a marathon, getting into shape for the first time or losing the baby weight, these women-focused running groups are welcoming runners from all walks of life.
>>RELATED: 5 ways you should take care of your feet after running
Moms Run This Town momsrunthistown.com
This nationwide running group has multiple chapters within Atlanta and beyond, but its mission remains the same everywhere: to give moms an outlet for staying fit and making friends. The club's programs are free and range in distance as well as location, welcoming all skill levels and providing a gentle accountability for any mother looking to get into the fitness game. Find a chapter, start a chapter or check out the group's various training plans on the website to learn how to get involved.
Women Run Wednesdays at West Stride
weststride.com
The name itself nails most of the details: this group is a space for women to go running together on Wednesdays at local specialty store West Stride. The group is taking a break for the summer (because let's face it, it's not called Hot-lanta for nothing), but runners can join the general Wednesday jaunt at West Stride in the meantime, and can keep an eye on the store's webpage for additional details.
Girls on the Run
girlsontherunatlanta.org
Don't forget about the young women. Girls on the Run is a nonprofit organization that aims to inspire girls between third and eighth grade with a mentoring curriculum that heavily emphasizes running. The GOTR vision statement is, "We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams." While the program is geared toward girls in elementary and middle school, there are plenty of ways for grown-up runners to get involved, too. Volunteer at a 5k or sign up for more information about coaching, which is a weekly commitment and gives active adults the chance to encourage a confident and healthy lifestyle in the next generation.
About the Author
