Running gives me so much clarity.
The year was 2018 and I was plateauing.
It had been a year since I began running and I was slowly grinding to a frustrating stop. I was losing momentum, the drive to keep going- and with time- the strength to fight my self-talk whose deafening noise now cloaked my mind throughout, was ebbing away. I needed motivation, a lifeline. I needed to find the burning flames of my running tribe to light my flickering flame.
When it rains, it pours.
My neighbour Eva whom I had been running with since I began, took a prolonged break due to an injury. Her break took a toll on me more than it did her. For months, I wandered in a desert of despair chasing detox and slimming tea mirages.
Then I found my tribe. I joined a running club.
It has been six years now. When I look at the trajectory my active living has taken, the milestones I have achieved, the friends I have made, the growth I have experienced not just physically but also holistically, the places running has taken me (both inside and outside), I would not have survived this far had I not found and constantly communed with my tribe.
Recreational running is a popular pastime among Kenyans.
Over the last two decades, running for leisure and fitness has surged in popularity as a growing wellness culture and the rise of running clubs across the country continues to transform running into a social and community-driven activity.
While traditionally viewed as elitist or a pursuit for only the most dedicated, today, the sport is embraced as a holistic approach to health, community, and personal accomplishment and has taken its own path to become a popular pastime among Kenyans living in urban areas.
Last month, the Stanchart Nairobi Marathon, one of Kenya’s most celebrated annual international races which began in 2003, reported record-breaking participation. With over 25,000 entries registered, Standard Chartered Kenya, the proud title sponsor of the marathon sold out two weeks to race day.
These record numbers were largely due to the close collaboration between the event organisers and running club officials.
Kenya’s cities, especially Nairobi, are seeing a boom in the formation of running clubs that bring together individuals from all walks of life to enjoy running. These clubs have become pillars of the country’s wellness movement, fostering a sense of community and encouraging physical activity for all.
Similarly, Kenya’s cities and scenic landscapes play host to numerous running events that cater to runners of all demographics, social and fitness levels, making running accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Here is an overview of the Kenyan running clubs that have been shaping the recreational running landscape, each with a unique focus and character.
Hash House Harriers
Originating in 1938 in Kuala Lumpur, The Nairobi chapter of Hash House Harriers (HHH) – an international group of non-competitive running social clubs is Kenya’s oldest club.
Known for its playful tagline “a drinking club with a running problem,” the Nairobi Chapter just like its progenitor, takes a relaxed and social approach to running and has three hasher factions whose distinction is based on the meet-up days between Saturday, Sunday & Monday.
With a mix of fun and fitness, HHH attracts runners who appreciate a lighthearted twist on traditional running. This sociable approach has helped the club build a loyal following, introducing a unique culture that balances physical activity with community engagement.
One of their highlight races (a personal favourite) is The Naivasha Relay, an annual event every first weekend of October.
Urban Swaras Running Club
Yours truly hanging out with Gatonye a Swara at a race that brought together all runners from various clubs
Founded in 2006 and formally registered in 2010, the Urban Swaras Running Club has played a pivotal role in popularizing recreational running in Kenya. This
Known for its adventurous spirit, the Swaras organize weekly runs across different locations, covering everything from urban routes to remote trails in the forests and hills surrounding Nairobi. Each Saturday, members gather to explore a new route, blending exercise with a scenic experience that appeals to both beginners and seasoned runners.
With a strong social media presence, the Urban Swaras inspire others to join Kenya’s running movement, showcasing the beauty of the country through its vibrant community.
Highlight: This year, the Swaras will be marking 15 years by hosting an anniversary celebration on 9th November at the Sarova Panafri Hotel. They are inviting all runners, friends and family to attend. Click here to register or get more information.
Karura Running Club
Based in Nairobi’s scenic Karura Forest, Karura Running Club combines a passion for running with an appreciation for nature. The club organizes regular runs along the forest’s scenic trails, providing a unique opportunity for runners to enjoy Kenya’s natural beauty in a pollution-free environment.
The club also incorporates environmental conservation activities, making it a favourite for runners interested in eco-friendly values. Members take part in clean-up runs and help promote conservation efforts within the forest, making Karura Running Club a great choice for those who view fitness as part of a broader commitment to the environment.
Team Jasho
Known for their serious training sessions, Team Jasho—Swahili for “team sweat”—has become a well-recognized name among Kenyan recreational runners.
With a strong focus on endurance and strength, Team Jasho organizes challenging training runs that push participants to their limits. They attract competitive runners and those preparing for races who want a rigorous and high-intensity training regimen.
The club’s ethos centres on resilience and discipline, making it an ideal choice for runners who are committed to pushing their personal boundaries. For serious athletes and runners in training, Team Jasho offers a supportive community that values hard work and determination.
Highlight: Look out for their TJ 30-day November virtual challenge.
Kitengela Mbunis
Kitengela Mbunis, a running club based in Kitengela, is named after the local ostriches (“mbuni” in Swahili) that are part of the area’s landscape.
The Mbunis stand out for their community-driven approach, focusing on bringing together locals to enjoy fitness as a social experience. Their running routes often highlight the picturesque semi-arid plains around Kitengela, attracting runners who appreciate a rustic, natural backdrop.
With a friendly and welcoming vibe, Kitengela Mbunis organizes events that cater to runners of all levels. Their runs serve as both a fitness opportunity and a way to build community among Kitengela residents, creating a supportive network of fitness enthusiasts.
Swamp Runners
Swamp Runners is a unique group based in the Kikuyu & Kabete region, known for its distinctive focus on running in hilly picturesque terrains. The club embraces these challenging conditions, which add an adventurous element to their runs.
This club attracts those who enjoy outdoor exploration and are unafraid of a little dirt, making each run feel like a mini-adventure. Swamp Runners’ spirit of resilience and playfulness makes it ideal for runners who love nature and don’t mind getting a little muddy or dusty along the way.
Nick Muteti, a member of Run Fit
Run Fit
When I think Run Fit, I think pre-elite running.
The club takes a dynamic and performance-oriented approach to running, helping runners work toward specific fitness goals.
The club hosts structured training sessions that include track workouts, intervals, and long-distance runs designed to boost speed, stamina, and endurance. Many Runfit members join to prepare for races or improve their personal records, and the club’s competitive focus helps keep members motivated.
With a reputation for discipline and goal-setting, Runfit has become a popular choice for runners who want to improve their performance in a supportive environment.
We, together with Mark Degenhart (an equally passionate recreational runner) are creating a database of all running clubs and groups in Kenya as well as a running calendar. Our goal is to make information about running in Kenya as comprehensive and simple to find as possible.
If you would like your club profile and upcoming runs to be listed get in touch with us via Wellness(at)KenyanPoet(dot)Com