If the 2010s saw the running movement explode around the globe, 2019 set the stage for an exciting new era in the scene, with more crews emerging in London to change the narrative in 2020. Check out our favourites waving the flags for diversity, inclusion and mental health.
Emancipated Run Crew
The Emancipated Run Crew is a virtual running group that was set up last year by WeRun WeEat sisters Jules and Dee and fellow runner Trojan to challenge the lack of diversity in mainstream running. Self-described as ‘a group of BAME runners who support and encourage each other on our own running journey’, their motto is ‘run free’ as they embark on helping people learn how to run their own race. www.instagram.com/emancipatedruncrew
Run With Purpose
This North London running group was started by Nii and Joel in early 2019 to tackle male depression by encouraging brotherhood and providing a space to talk. Since then, they’ve gone from strength to strength and plan to take their movement to the next level in 2020. www.instagram.com/runwithpurposeldn
BENI Run Club
As one of the largest crews to emerge in 2019, BENI Run Club (BRC) was created by YouTuber / creative Nadir and is aimed at millennials ‘striding the marathon of life and identity’. Members reflect the subjects of Nadir’s prior work (mainly young Muslims around the world), and with a new Nike partnership, BRC have now set their sights on global domination. www.instagram.com/beni.lab
Black Girls Do Run UK
Led by Tasha and Linda, Black Girls Do Run UK launched their Instagram last spring, and it documents the community’s wonderful running adventures, to encourage female runners of colour. Follow for mega doses of inspiration, #blackgirlmagic and more. www.instagram.com/blackgirlsdorunuk
ASRA
Founded by researcher Sahra-Isha, ASRA is a Wimbledon-based running club created for Muslim women looking for a safe space to get fit. Though still in its early days, the community have already made strides by teaming up with Nike, and hope to help more women this year unlock their inner athletes without compromising on their faith. www.instagram.com/asra.club
