Support Us Button Widget

Pound the pavement with Lakeland’s running and walking clubs

Lace up your most comfortable sneakers to go running or walking — plus, meet new friends.

Runners take off at a starting line in a road race.

Get stepping, Swan City.

It’s a lot easier to reach your goals when you have others supporting you every step of the way. Whether you’re training for a distance race or prefer to socialize while you exercise, find community at these local running + walking groups.

Lakeland Runners Club
If a long-distance run is in your future, this club makes the perfect starting line. Join for 5K training and weekly group runs around locations like Swan Brewing, Lake Hollingsworth, and Lake Morton. Keep an eye out for races throughout the year, including the Lake to Lake 10K.

Fleet Feet
Visit this store to get fitted for running shoes, then join its weekly social runs around Lakeside Village on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. After you work up a sweat, gather at the Brass Tap next door for food + beverage discounts.

A group of adults in running shoes pose for a photo after a walk

Find your pace and meet a new community on a walk together.

Lakeland Girls Who Walk
Prefer to take it slow and socialize? This group welcomes “all people, pups, and strollers” to its weekly walks — just follow along on Instagram to keep stride with location updates. You can also find friends off the sidewalk with meet-ups to grab coffee or craft together.

LRC Kids Run Club
Junior joggers can kickstart a healthy lifestyle and find a passion for running with the Lakeland Runners Club’s kids group. Bring your elementary schoolers to Bonnet Springs Park for free practices on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Pro tip: LRC also has a summer program for middle schoolers interested in cross country running.

More from LALtoday
Where can we find the best lights this season?
This interactive map can help you determine how walkable certain blocks are to destinations like supermarkets, parks, restaurants, and schools.
Learn what Lakelanders could expect in terms of the cuisine, experience, and opening timeline should the plan get approved.
Add some Lakeland flair to your Thanksgiving spread with classic dishes from these Swan City restaurants.
It’s not such a small town anymore — check out how Lakeland’s growth is reflected in rankings from the past year.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Lakeland includes everything from packing food for children in need to fostering pets.
Find a unique gift by local vendors, artists, and makers at these holiday-themed markets in and around Lakeland.
Here’s how you can help the family of restaurant owner Jeannie Weaver-Lopez.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Lakeland?
Wellness
According to Soliant Health, Lakeland ranks low on its list of cities most likely to get sick, and there are precautions you can take this flu season.