Running, community, lifestyle: Why social running clubs are in tune with the times

The time has come – we are delighted to announce the Waterkant Running Club ! In recent years, running has (once again) become the favorite sport of many city dwellers. There are few financial hurdles to getting started, no fancy equipment or space required, and yet it's still an opportunity to meet people with the same ideas and passion while getting fit. Running has long been more than just a sport. It is an expression of a modern attitude to life – dynamic, communal, urban. Social Running Clubs embody exactly that: a new kind of running that focuses on togetherness rather than competition. Such clubs have long been established in metropolises all over the world, from New York to Copenhagen. And in Hamburg, too, it's clear: those who run together run differently – and often further than they could ever have gone alone.

What makes social running clubs so special is their open concept. Anyone can join – whether they're a beginner or an ambitious amateur athlete. The groups usually organize themselves via social media or apps like Strava, communicate casually via Instagram or WhatsApp, and arrange regular runs – sometimes weekly, sometimes monthly, often with a fixed meeting point and varying distances and paces. But the most important thing happens beyond the miles: getting to know each other, sharing ideas, and the feeling of being part of something.

Anyone who runs quickly realizes: This isn't a traditional sports group. It's a movement. Many of the participants wouldn't even describe themselves as "runners" in the traditional sense – and that's precisely its strength. The pressure to perform is removed, and the fun returns. Because running together is easier. People motivate each other, pull each other along, talk about their day along the way, laugh, stay silent, and run. Your inner demons hardly stand a chance against this kind of group dynamic.

Social running clubs are also a product of their time. In an era where much takes place digitally, they create real encounters. In a society that is becoming increasingly isolated, they build bridges. Especially in a city like Hamburg, where many people have recently moved, these clubs are one of the most accessible ways to connect – beyond the daily grind of work or student life. The setting also plays a role. Anyone who has ever run with a group along the Elbe at sunset, through the Speicherstadt in the evening light, or around the Alster Lake early in the morning knows: This city has its own unique stories to tell when running. Every route becomes a mini journey – and a shared experience.

More and more concept stores, cafés, and urban brands are also embracing the trend and supporting the scene. We're seeing this happening here at the Waterkant Store: Demand for functional, stylish running gear is growing – and not just among athletes. Those who start a social run often come for the community – and stay for the spirit. And the best part: it's easy to join. Usually, all you need is a pair of running shoes, a little curiosity, and the willingness to get running. The group will do the rest.

Our goal: to establish a social running club in Ottensen and western Altona that brings people together and hopefully creates a community centered around running, sharing ideas, cheering on each other, and networking. Our shop can serve as a starting and meeting point. Bags and clothing can be safely stored there. After the run, our premises offer space for follow-up activities: run analysis, after-work beer or wine, or simply as a community hub. We want to use our space in Ottensen and make it available to the community. We're excited about it; please contact us if you have any ideas or suggestions!

Tuesday is running day/ Waterkant Running Club

Meeting: 7:15 PM Start: 7:30 PM
Meeting point: in front of the Waterkant Store, Ottenser Hauptstraße 56
Length: between 5 and 10 km
Pace: between 6 and 7

Confirm your appointment via STRAVA or come to our store and leave your name and phone number – then you'll receive a WhatsApp notification letting you know exactly when it starts.