From Pints to Pavements
After-work drinks are losing their sparkle. Rising costs, growing health awareness and the rise of hybrid work mean the old 5pm pub meet-up no longer fits everyone’s lifestyle.
In its place, a new trend is taking off across London’s offices: corporate run clubs. Far from being just about fitness, these groups are inclusive, energising and an effective way to build real workplace connections.
Why Corporate Run Clubs Work
- Inclusive for all levels – from seasoned marathoners to first-time joggers
- Natural networking – conversations flow side by side on the move
- Stress relief built in – exercise reduces stress and lifts mood
- Budget-friendly – no bar tab required, just good shoes and open pavements
- Flexible formats – run before work for a boost, at lunchtime for a reset or after hours as a healthy wind-down
The Business Benefits
- Reduced absenteeism and fewer sick days
- Stronger team cohesion and bonds across departments
- Increased energy and productivity back at the desk
- A healthier, more positive company culture
How to Start a Run Club at Work
- Pick a regular time – weekly runs are a good starting point
- Keep it short – aim for 3–5 km so it feels achievable for all
- Offer pace groups – walkers, joggers and faster runners can all join in
- Focus on social – the run is just part of it; create time to chat before or after
- Celebrate progress – milestones, personal bests and consistency all deserve recognition
Remember: it is not about speed or competition. It is about community, consistency and creating a supportive space where everyone feels welcome.
Make It Easy to Join
Keep the barriers low. A simple sign-up link, QR code or intranet page is enough to get people involved. Post the route map and meeting point in advance so everyone knows what to expect.
Share photos, milestones and little wins internally to build momentum. Many companies set up a dedicated Slack or Teams channel such as #runclub for that week’s run. It gives people a place to connect, share encouragement and keep the habit going.
Take It Further with Expert-Led Sessions
Once a run club has momentum, bringing in a professional coach can keep things fresh and accessible for everyone. That Day offers running sessions that cover everything from technique and endurance to team-building challenges:
- Run Club – a social, all-levels session where colleagues explore new routes and build fitness together
- Run & Reps – a mix of running drills, core work and intervals to help improve speed and endurance
- Charity Event Training – one-off sessions designed to prepare teams for marathons, sponsored walks or other fundraising challenges
These classes are led by experienced instructors who tailor each session to different fitness levels. It means seasoned marathoners and first-time joggers can train side by side and still feel supported.
“I am fairly new to running so it was a leap for me to join the running club when it was launched at work, but I’m so glad I did. Each session has been fun and the right level of challenging. I’m feeling fitter and think I’m now hooked.” - That Day Customer
Whether you keep things simple with a self-organised group or add professional sessions, the key is creating consistency, community and a reason for people to keep lacing up their trainers.
Final Thought
As work patterns change, so do the ways we connect. Corporate run clubs are proving to be a simple yet powerful way to bring people together without the hangover.
At That Day, we help organisations set up wellbeing programmes like this, from run clubs and fitness classes to full-scale workplace wellness strategies. If you would like support in building your own run club or wider wellbeing initiative, get in touch with our team.
