Join us for our FREE Group Runs from the St. Pete Running Company every Monday and Thursday Night at 6:30 PM! This friendly and casual group run welcomes runners and walkers of all ability levels. Whether you’re just starting your running journey or looking to find a few training partners who match your pace, this is the perfect gathering for you! Our community is designed to help you find a running partner who fits your ability level, ensuring you feel comfortable and welcomed. You WON’T feel intimidated here!
All FIRST TIMERS are rewarded with a $10 Gift Card to our store as a warm welcome for joining us in this exciting experience!
The Details:
Where: St. Pete Running Company, located at 6986 22nd Ave North in St. Petersburg. Our store is conveniently situated in the Marketplace Shopping Center, directly across from Tyrone Square Mall, right next to the LA Fitness Gym. Feel free to park anywhere that suits you; additional parking is also available behind LA Fitness for your convenience.
What: Experience a relaxed Group Walk/Run along the stunning Pinellas Trail. During the fall and winter months, our route takes us to and around the scenic Azalea Park and back, following a 5K path. However, participants are welcome to run any distance they feel comfortable completing. In the spring and summer, we typically adopt an out & back format on the trail, allowing for a flexible running experience where you can go as short or as long as you like; most runners will typically enjoy a duration of anywhere between 15 and 40 minutes. You’ll always find someone within the group who matches your running or walking pace.
Who: The answer is YOU! Our Running Group is designed for everyone, regardless of speed or body type. There’s no need to conform to any standards! All you need to bring is yourself! Since our inception, the group has grown rapidly, now averaging over 50 participants each session. The group includes many walkers as well as those who prefer to maintain a steady run, but most participants find comfort in a run/walk format. It’s very common for members to cover distances anywhere from 1 to 3 miles, although some members go the extra mile, seeking to complete as many as 6 miles in total during a session.
Why: We run not just for fitness, but for fun and connection. Our community is built on camaraderie and shared enjoyment; we’re not aiming for record-breaking performances. By joining our free group, you’ll have the opportunity to ease into the best shape of your life while enjoying the company of some fantastic people!
If you have any questions or if you’re uncertain whether this group is the right fit for you, don’t hesitate to call us at 727-800-5043 for more information!
**Interview with Sarah Thompson, Coordinator for Run St. Pete Running Club**
**Editor:** Hi Sarah! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us about the St. Pete Running Club. Can you tell us a bit about what inspired the creation of this friendly running community?
**Sarah:** Absolutely, happy to be here! The inspiration came from our desire to create a welcoming space for both seasoned runners and beginners. We wanted to break down any intimidation barriers around running and make it accessible to everyone. Our vision is simple: we want to foster a community where people feel comfortable to join, regardless of their fitness level.
**Editor:** That’s wonderful! What can participants expect when they join one of your group runs?
**Sarah:** Participants can look forward to a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We host our runs every Monday and Thursday at 6:30 PM, and it’s a great time to meet new friends and find running partners that fit your pace. Whether you’re looking to jog, run, or walk, everyone is welcome. And for first-timers, we give a $10 gift card to our store as a warm welcome, which adds a nice touch to the experience!
**Editor:** What’s the benefit of joining these group runs, especially for newcomers?
**Sarah:** Group runs provide a great motivational boost! For newcomers, it’s reassuring to run among others who are learning and improving at the same time. It can be more enjoyable than running alone, and it’s a great way to meet people who share a common interest. Plus, training can be more effective when you have accountability and encouragement from others.
**Editor:** And where are the runs held?
**Sarah:** Our runs take place at the St. Pete Running Company, located at 6986 22nd Ave North in St. Petersburg. We’re right in the Marketplace Shopping Center, near Tyrone Square Mall. There’s plenty of parking available, which makes it easy for everyone to join in.
**Editor:** It sounds like a fantastic opportunity for the local community! Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
**Sarah:** Just to emphasize that we truly welcome everyone, no matter where you are on your running journey. It’s all about having fun, getting active, and building a supportive community. We can’t wait to meet more people at our upcoming runs!
**Editor:** Thank you so much for your time, Sarah. It sounds like Run St. Pete is a great way to enjoy running and make new friends!
**Sarah:** Thank you! Hope to see everyone at our next run!
