Some runners run because they love pushing their bodies, feeling the wind in their face as they challenge themselves, and others run simply because they feel so darn good when they’re done. But regardless of why, one of the things that many runners enjoy is the ability to run with others – and that’s why there are so many great running clubs in Chicago. So if you’re a beginner or seasoned runner and are looking for some company or motivation – or a combination there of, take a look at this list of some of the best running clubs in the Chicago area. Chicago Hash House Harriers If running and drinking are your two favorite activities, then why not combine them? The Chicago Hash House Harriers calls themselves “a drinking club with a running problem,” but running for beer is no problem at all with this group of “hashers” who get together to promote physical fitness and socialize on Monday nights, and on scheduled Saturdays or Sundays depending on the time of year. Established in 1978, the Chicago Hash House Harriers is a chapter of an international group of non-competitive running social clubs from all over the globe. So, throw on your running shoes and stop by one of the groups weekly events, and for a nominal fee (usually under $10) go for a run with some great people with stops at some local watering-holes along the way.

Evanston Running Club Runners come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of ability and experience – and there’s a place for everyone in the Evanston Running Club. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, training for a race or marathon, or even if you’re new to running or simply looking for a great workout, the Evanston Running Club can help you meet your goals and offer a little fun and camaraderie in the process as well. With a motto of “Nobody runs alone,” the club now boasts 400 members and offers group runs, educational programs and social events. Take a look at their website for the group’s events calendar as well as information how to join.

Frontrunners/Frontwalkers For members and friends of the LGBT community, the Frontrunners/Frontwalkers running club is a great way to enjoy the Chicago lakefront on foot. Whether running or walking, the Frontrunners/Frontwalkers club meets twice weekly on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings and head out for some fun fitness and then normally meet for a meal at a near-by restaurant. For the reasonable membership dues of only $20, members will receive weekly newsletters listing all the social events and opportunities to take part in, though they do recommend joining them for a run or walk before officially signing up. The Frontrunners/Frontwalkers running club also organizes a volunteer-run water station at the Chicago Marathon and a Labor Day get-together with other Midwest chapters. Related: Best Chicago Races For Runners Who Like To Have Fun

Chicago Area Runners Association Strength in numbers? Absolutely! The Chicago Area Runners Association – or CARA, for short – is the third largest running organization in the United States with more than 10,000 members in the Chicagoland area alone. A membership in CARA provides training programs to help prepare for races and marathons, discounted opportunities to run in more than 70 local events, the chance to get involved with a mentorship-based running program to help give back to the community, the opportunity to qualify for an entry in the Chicago Marathon, through the CARA Marathon Incentive Program, and much more.

Bucktown & Wicker Park Fun Run It’s Thursday night and you really don’t want to just go home to the TV after work – so how about a fun run through Bucktown and Wicker Park? Meeting every Thursday evening at Lululemon Athletica in Bucktown, join the Bucktown & Wicker Park Fun Run at 6:30 P.M. Led by a seasoned marathon runner and Boston Marathon qualifier and open to runners of all performance levels, come take part in a three-five mile run around one of the city of Chicago’s most colorful neighborhoods. Related: Best Community Gardens In Chicago

Soon after earning her BA in journalism, Melanie Falina began writing about one of the loves of her life – music. Since then, she’s covered some of the biggest names in music, in addition to writing on an array of other topics as well. She has written for Black Belt magazine, KISS: The Official Authorized Quarterly Magazine, Examiner, AXS.com, Yahoo Voices, and more, and was editor for Don Lemmon’s KNOW HOW Book Three, Refuse To Fail. Melanie is also a poet with six published collections of poetry available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and various establishments.