Run Club Beginners Checklist: 15 Essentials to get you started
Two of Australia’s top fitness names share their essential tips for joining one of the nation’s fastest-growing trends.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
Head out early in the morning and there’s a pretty good chance you’ll see a run club or three.
Run clubs have surged in popularity over the last year or two, and Kic co-founder and CEO Laura Henshaw knows exactly why.
“I think the rise of run clubs is to do with the combination of moving your body – the runner’s high is so real – but that combined with community and connection, it just makes you feel so good.”
Laura adds, “I cannot explain the feeling at 9am, when I’ve been to the Kic run club, I’ve done my run, I’ve connected with people, I’ve had a coffee, and I drive home and I’ll call my husband who’s still asleep, and I feel like I’ve already won the day.”
She continues, “Your cup is so full when you connect with people and connection is so important for our health, so it’s like a double whammy.”
But Steph Claire Smith, the other founding half of health and wellness app Kic, reveals the big kicker: that “running is super accessible.”
“Cost of living; classes and gym (memberships) can get really expensive, and running is a very accessible thing for people, so I think that’s another reason why (run clubs are) surging.”
If weekly Pilates classes at a boujie studio are pulling your purse strings a bit too tight, running is an incredibly cheap alternative. And if heading out on a leg-burning, lung-heaving mini marathon terrifies you, a run club is the perfect way to ease into running. Think of it as Saturday brunch with friends, except the mimosas haven’t come out yet and you’re sweatier than usual.
If you’re ready to get into running or run clubs, there really are only a few essentials you need.
We’ve rounded up the top must-haves you need for running or joining a run club, along with some of Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw’s own personal running recommendations.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST RUNNING SHOES FOR A RUN CLUB
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, $260 at New Balance
Steph Claire Smith’s go-to running shoe, the New Balance Fresh Foam shoes are a brilliant place to start for beginner runners, or any runner who loves some good cushioning underfoot. Cloud-like and oh-so-comfortable, these shoes feature a super lightweight midsole cushioning that makes every landing and lift-off feel super easy. The mesh upper is also incredibly breathable, so you’re set even running into the warmer weather.
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I’ve worn these shoes for a few runs now, and each time, I have not noticed the shoes. I take that as a sign they’re doing their job well in making my feet comfortable and functional, without any distractions. The support is excellent and the thick, cloud-like cushioning makes my return to running gentle on my body.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite Womens Running Shoes, $359.99 at Rebel Sport
Laura Henshaw says the FuelCell Elite runners are her favourite at the moment while training for a marathon.
“They’re making me go very fast.”
These performance runners are built for those looking to get into more competitive running, as they’re designed for racing, with superior energy return in each step, propelling you forward to smash your goals.
BEST SPORTS BRAS FOR A RUN CLUB
New Balance Rib Light Support Sports Bra, $85 at The Iconic
Both Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw’s favourite sports bra at the minute, this ribbed, double-layered sports bra is “super, super supportive,” says Laura, and “looks really cute,” according to Steph. Made with a shelf bra and double-layered crossover back, this sports bra is designed for lighter activities and great for when you’re hanging out in the walking group of your run club, though both Steph and Laura wear this bra for running also.
Lorna Jane Amy Maximum Support Sports Bra, $68 (down from $85) at Lorna Jane
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith,Body+SoulHealth and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I have worn this sports bra on loads of runs and walks now, and absolutely love how versatile it is. Not only is it super supportive and comfortable, it looks really cute, which is what you really want. Because while your run club friends probably don’t care what activewear you’re sporting, it’s nice to feel good in what you’re wearing when you’re heading out for coffee or Acai after your sweat sesh.
I love how this sports bra has straps that can turn into a racerback style, or simply over the shoulder, as it goes great under any outfit, if you’re heading somewhere else before or after run club.
BEST RUNNING TOPS AND JACKETS FOR A RUN CLUB
Women’s Athletics Long Sleeve, $60 at New Balance
Living in Melbourne, Laura Henshaw says it gets “very windy,” and this lightweight long sleeve is the perfect running top.
“I don’t get too hot and I can keep it on the whole time.”
This feather-light long sleeve has thumb holes to keep it from riding up your arms as you run, and features fast-drying technology to help keep you cool.
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I wore this long sleeve running top for a run in chilly Melbourne, and it was surprisingly warm without feeling heavy or too hot. I love the thumb holes to keep the sleeves locked in place and find this a super soft, comfortable top to run in, despite the weather.
Sport Essentials Space Dye Quarter Zip, $80 at The Iconic
Steph and Laura are huge fans of this quarter-zip top with fast-drying technology.
“I love that one for when it’s colder to stay warmer,” says Laura. The stretch-knit fabric features thumb hole loops and a (you guessed it) quarter zip closure to hold you in nice and warm at the start of your run, but allow you freedom to unzip or roll up your sleeves when things get warmer. Not only that, this looks super chic for run club.
New Balance Sportswear Greatest Hits Quarter Zip Sweater, $72 (down from $120) at The Iconic
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I have only been wearing this jumper for a short time, but it has very quickly become a running and walking staple for me. Super lightweight, this stunning jumper works as a great relaxed throwover if you’re heading to an early run club, as it takes the edge off the cool temperatures without making you too hot. Plus, it’s non bulky and easy to tie around your waist when it gets too warm. This is a great one to throw on if you’re heading out for coffee after run club, as it looks chic with just about any outfit (think, bike shorts, leggings, denim shorts or even a skirt).
BEST LEGGINGS FOR A RUN CLUB
Amy Phone Pocket Tech Bike Shorts, $72 (down from $90) at Lorna Jane
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith Body+SoulHealth and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
These bike shorts have permanent residency in my running and walking rotation. With pockets down both sides, there’s plenty of room for your phone, keys and whatever else you need to carry with you on your run. The high-rise waistband make these really comfortable and easy to wear with a sports bra or running top, and they’re a great fit for running as the warmer months roll around.
Fast and Free Reflective High Rise Tights, $149 at Lululemon
Made for running, these reflective tights from activewear royalty Lululemon sport nearly as many pockets as they do 5-star ratings. Two side pockets fit your phone and other goodies, while five (yes, five) waistband pockets hold smaller items like the house key. These leggings have also been made with Nulux fabric, super lightweight fabric that is quick drying and sweat wicking, but also passes the squat test.
And in case you were wondering, the Fast and Free leggings sport over 800 five-star reviews, with one reviewer raving, “These leggings are my go to!!! They are super comfy and don’t fall down when running. I absolutely love them.”
BEST BEAUTY SUPPLIES FOR RUNNERS
Milani Make it Last Setting Spray, $34.25 at Amazon Australia
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith,Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I don’t normally run with makeup on, but for my first run club experience not long ago, I was a little nervous to meet all these new people without a little bit of colour and mascara to boost my confidence. Plus, there’s always the classic run club Insta post that you sometimes just want to feel a little ‘done’ for. With this Milani setting spray, I didn’t have to worry for a second about my tinted moisturiser and mascara melting on my face as I ran. The lightweight, priming setting spray locks everything in place for up to 16 hours and adds a radiant finish. After a sweaty run and post-run breakfast, I was pleased to say that my makeup stayed intact the entire time thanks to my trusty setting spray.
Pret A Mascara, $29 at Pret-A-Prep
If you’re feeling a little vulnerable about running with other people in a run club, a little mascara sometimes adds that boost of confidence we need. Steph Claire Smith has dubbed this “the best tubing mascara” that “doesn’t flake,” if you’re heading out on a run and need a little lash boost.
If you want a great tubing mascara with volumising peptides for lash health, we’ve run-tested the Lust Minerals Mascara, and can assure you it’s a great one for lashes that are sweat proof, all day long.
Pretty In Zinc SPF50+ Dreamscreen, $51 at Airyday
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
While Steph and Laura say they don’t normally wear makeup when running, both agreed on the importance of wearing SPF. My go-to choice of sunscreen for a run (and just every other day of my life) is the Airyday Pretty In Zinc Dreamscreen, which goes on the skin super matte and feels non-greasy all day long. The beige tint of this zinc helps to cover over imperfections in my skin and has me feeling confident heading to run club, even at 6:30am on a Saturday morning.
Remember: 40 minutes water resistant. Re-apply often, after sweating, swimming, or toweling. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. External use only. Keep out of eyes and do not use on damaged and broken skin. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing, hats, and eye wear when exposed to the sun.
Batiste Dry Shampoo, 24H Active, $15.30 at Amazon Australia
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
There’s something to be said for the complexity of a hair-wash routine. You need to wash your hair, but if you wash it today, you won’t be able to run tomorrow. But if you run today, you won’t have time to wash it before work. Cue, dry shampoo that’s literally fuelled by sweat. This Batiste 24H Active Dry Shampoo has bursts of scent that are activated when hit with sweat, so your freshly washed hair stays fresh even after going for a run. Or, a few post-run sprays and your sweaty hair can look fresh even after run club.
WHAT TO BRING TO A RUNNING CLUB
Salomon Hydration Vest, from $127.11 at Amazon
If you’re new to running and worried about getting thirsty during your run, a vest can be a great way to bring everything you need, while keeping your hands free. Designed for longer distance running, this is also a top pick if you’re keen on doing longer runs where you’ll need things like a water flask or even gels to keep your energy levels up.
MEE Audio goSPKR Wearable Clip-On Bluetooth Speaker, $59.99 at Amazon
On a recent Kic run club in Melbourne, the first thing Steph did was hit play on some music through her phone, because where’s the vibe in running without some tunes? But for some vibey music that your whole run club can enjoy, this clip-on speaker is the way to go. Affordable and designed to be worn for some background music while walking or running in a group, this will surely have you feeling like you’re the main character of your own Netflix series.
How we choose products
With hundreds of fitness essentials s available, it’s impossible to test every product out there. Our content is based on a range of different types of research – the team’s first-hand experience with products, hours of research, scouring through pages of consumer reviews or information, and advice from experts we trust.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How should a beginner runner start?
“One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to running,” explains Laura, “is that you have to run the whole time, you absolutely don’t.”
“When you’re starting your running journey, a part of that is doing walk runs, so 90 seconds of walking, 30 seconds of running, repeat that 10 times. Next time, reduce the walking a little bit more until you can build up to running non-stop, but just reframing it in your mind, that your run is still a run if you walk some of it.”
“And if you’re looking to get to a certain distance, if you have a goal in mind,” adds Steph, “try and have at least three runs in your week, if you want to progress each week.”
How do I find a local running club?
Steph and Laura, through their health and wellness app Kic, hold run clubs around Sydney, Melbourne and even London, which can be found via their website.
“So hopefully you live near one of ours,” says Steph, “but even if you don’t, connecting virtually online; if you want to start a program, try and connect with some friends, maybe they live in different cities, but joining a program together and starting from scratch together can be super motivating.”
“But, with the run clubs, just know that they’re not all as intimidating as they seem,” advises Steph. “Some are, some are definitely for athletes, but there’s run clubs like ours out there, for every level of runner, even if you want to walk most of it, you’re absolutely welcome, and it’s all just about building that community connection.”
“And so many people go alone,” adds Laura.
“Making friends as adults is so hard, and a run club is an amazing way to meet new friends, so don’t be scared to go by yourself.”
When can I call myself a runner?
“If you are able to run, you are a runner,” says Laura.
“My favourite part (of the Kic and New Balance partnership) is what New Balance says, which is ‘run your way’. And that’s what we believe inherently at Kic. It can look different for every single person, and that is absolutely ok.”
How far do you have to run to be considered a runner?
To call yourself a runner does not mean you need to be running marathons, or running quickly.
“One of my biggest insecurities,” explains Steph, “is that if I start labelling myself as a runner, is someone going to sign me up to a half marathon and expect me to do it, because that is not what I would like to do. But it’s just changing your mindset around it. Like for me I’ve found my relationship with running is being able to run with friends and not dread every second of it. And for other people, it’s being able to accomplish a certain distance, and want to reach the next goal, and prove to themselves that they can do it.
“So just find what works for you, and if it is in fact that you’re not trying to get to the Olympics, your pace does not matter.”
“That’s so true,” affirms Laura. “That’s what I always think of when people are like, ‘oh but I’m worried about my pace.’
“I’m like, ‘The only time your pace matters, is if you’re literally racing and you’re trying to get into the Olympics.’ Otherwise it doesn’t matter.
“And I think it’s also important to not compare yourself to anyone else. I find when I see people post their pace on Instagram, I use that as inspiration, like, ‘Wow they’ve just pushed themselves for their personal best, but my personal best is gonna be different to theirs.
Describing running as an “incredible experience” that’s “different for every person”, Laura encourages people not to hold back because they’re comparing themselves to others.
“You don’t want to get to the end of your life and think, ‘Oh, I never ran because I was never going to be as fast as somebody on Instagram,’” she says.
“Don’t hold yourself back from that incredible experience, just do it and it’s going to be unique to everyone and that’s ok.”
Echoing Laura’s sentiment, Steph adds, “And just remember, that it’s all relative.
More Coverage
“A 5km run for me is a pretty hard run,” she says. “So I’m really proud of myself when I get through that, and that might mean it’s at the same level as when Laura completes a 20km run, but that’s okay. Just remember where you’re at.”
To help you save on every purchase be sure to check out news.com.au Coupons, where you’ll find deals and coupon codes for many of your favourite brands and retailers, such as Priceline, Myer and Sephora.
Also don’t forget to sign up the (free) news.com.au checkout newsletter.
‘Supportive’ sports bras for every workout
If comfort and support is what you’re after, we’ve rounded up 16 sports bras that tick all the boxes – including a popular option that’s perfect for runners.
‘Gross’ hygiene swap we should make
Making this change to a common everyday item gets a bad rap — but this product has changed the game.
‘Magical’: Best earbuds for exercise, running and the gym
Bringing impressive noise-cancellation and a “pocketable” charging case, these buds come highly recommended by reviewers.
’Best purchase ever’: Treadmill trend takes off
Stuck indoors but want to get moving? Check out our wrap of the best under desk walking pads out there right now.