Nitro (Northern Illinois Trail Runners Organization)
The Northern Illinois Trail Runners Organization (NITRO) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) running club based in the DeKalb/Sycamore area, serving northern Illinois between Rockford and St. Charles. With over 100 members, NITRO brings together individuals who enjoy running on both roads and trails, participating in races, and engaging in social activities. The club welcomes runners of all abilities, from beginners to advanced athletes. NITRO's primary goal is to promote the well-being of its members and the community through running and active involvement.
DeKalb County Runners
DeKalb County Runners is a welcoming community dedicated to promoting running and fitness among residents of DeKalb County. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your running journey or an experienced runner seeking to improve your performance, our club offers a supportive environment for all levels of runners. We organize regular group runs, training sessions, and social events to help members achieve their fitness goals and foster camaraderie within the local running community. Join us to connect with like-minded individuals, stay motivated, and explore the beautiful landscapes of DeKalb County through running.
Pinpoint Pacers Montgomery Walk/Run Club
Pinpoint Pacers Montgomery Walk/Run Club is a welcoming community for individuals interested in enhancing their fitness levels and fostering connections with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced runner or a novice embarking on your fitness journey, this club provides a supportive environment for group runs and walks along the scenic Fox River. By participating in our regular meetups, members receive encouragement and inspiration to achieve personal fitness goals, explore new running routes, and embrace an active and healthy lifestyle. Join us as we collectively lace up our shoes, traverse the pavement, and strive towards individual excellence and well-being.
Vadoz Club
Vadoz Club is a welcoming community for runners of all levels and backgrounds, embodying inclusivity and a spirit of adventure. Stay connected and engaged with us by following our Instagram account @vadozclub for the latest updates, events, and running inspirations.
Fox River Trail Runners
Fox River Trail Runners (FRTR) is a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit Corporation established in 1995 with the mission to promote running as a healthy lifestyle in the Fox Valley Region, while also contributing to the local community. As a member club of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), the club organizes group runs along the Fox River Trail on weekends and the Great Western Trail on Wednesdays, catering to runners of all paces. In addition to weekly group runs, FRTR hosts four annual races that support charitable causes, offers running-related educational programs, spring/fall race training programs, social events for runners, and provides scholarship opportunities for local youth.
NW Trail Blazers Running Group
NW Trail Blazers Running Group is a re-branded club catering to trail running enthusiasts who enjoy exploring forest preserves, conservation areas, parks, and more while connecting with like-minded individuals. Participants can expect a mix of nature appreciation, fitness challenges, and social interactions. It's important to note that trail running/walking entails some risks due to natural elements like roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. While most trails are maintained, trip hazards may exist. The club emphasizes personal responsibility for safety during events.
Lake County Run Club
Lake County Run Club is a vibrant community of runners dedicated to promoting health and fitness through group running activities. We welcome runners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes, providing a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone to achieve their running goals. Join us for regular group runs, training sessions, and social events that foster camaraderie and a love for running.
Rockford Road Runners
Established on September 17, 1968, the Rockford Road Runners is a dedicated running club committed to promoting and encouraging running and walking while educating the public on their numerous benefits. Over the years, the club has organized races, conducted educational activities, hosted social events, published newsletters, maintained websites, facilitated member race circuits, presented recognition awards, and engaged in various activities to foster a culture of running and walking among its members and the community.
Screw City Running Club
Screw City Running Club is a welcoming and inclusive group that values relationship building and supporting runners of all abilities. They gather for a conversational pace run every Tuesday evening covering 3-4 miles, followed by food and beverages. Additionally, they meet every other Saturday morning for a 4+ mile hybrid paved path/trail run. Locations vary, so it's recommended to check their posted schedules for more information. Join Screw City Running Club for a fun and supportive running community experience!
Los Lobos Running Crew
Los Lobos Running Crew welcomes both runners and walkers to join their wolfpack every Thursday at 6pm. They are also known as the Los Lobos Racing Team and can be identified through hashtags like #losloboschi, #loslobosrc, and #lrtchicago. This cool group of individuals share a passion for running by coming together as a pack of like-minded enthusiasts, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and fitness.
Hillstriders
Hillstriders is a vibrant community running club catering to individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Members participate in a variety of running events ranging from 5K races to challenging ultra marathons, all while fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. The club's signature weekly group run, held every Tuesday evening at Main Beach in Crystal Lake from Memorial Day to Labor Day, covers a picturesque 4.3-mile course around the lake, followed by post-run festivities featuring pizza and refreshments provided by the club. Additionally, Hillstriders proudly organizes the popular March Madness Half Marathon and the festive Thanksgiving Day 5K, further exemplifying its commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle within the community.
Crystal Lake, IL Runners
Crystal Lake, IL Runners is a vibrant and inclusive running club that welcomes runners of all ages and abilities. With a strong sense of community and camaraderie, members gather regularly to enjoy group runs, training sessions, and social events. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your fitness or an experienced runner aiming for new personal bests, this club offers support and motivation to help you achieve your goals. Join Crystal Lake, IL Runners to be part of a fun and supportive running community in the beautiful surroundings of Crystal Lake, Illinois.
River Run Club
River Run Club is located at Camp River Run on 4204 Clearwater Lane in Naperville, IL 60564. The club offers a variety of running activities for both members and non-members. Their policy ensures that all non-members attending the club's events are welcomed and included in the running community.
DNA Run Club
DNA Run Club at DNA Athletics is a welcoming and inclusive community for runners and walkers of all abilities and backgrounds. They provide support and camaraderie for local area athletes, striving to create a sense of belonging and encouragement. For information on running and walking events in the area, visit their website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
Augustana College Alumni
Augustana College Alumni running club is dedicated to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through running. With a strong emphasis on camaraderie and support, members of the club strive to achieve their fitness goals together while fostering a sense of community. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, the club welcomes all alumni to join in on group runs, training sessions, and various social events. The journey with Augustana College Alumni is not just about reaching the finish line, but about enjoying the process and building lasting friendships along the way.
Deer Grove Trail Runners
Deer Grove Trail Runners is a community of passionate trail runners who come together to explore nature's beauty while pushing their limits on the trails. With a focus on camaraderie and inclusivity, this group welcomes runners of all paces to join them for challenging workouts and the shared love of running. Their philosophy of 'NO ONE LEFT BEHIND...EVER...EV-ER!!' exemplifies their commitment to supporting each other on the trails, fostering a sense of belonging and encouragement among members.
Alpine Runners
Alpine Runners, a prominent running club in the Chicagoland region, boasts a membership of nearly 500 individuals. The club offers a wide range of pace groups starting from 7:30 minutes per mile and incrementing by 30-second intervals up to 12:00 minutes plus per mile, catering to various running abilities. During marathon season, the club sees a significant turnout of around 200 participants on Saturday mornings. Members benefit from inclusive training programs and have the opportunity to participate in the annual Alpine Races, a tradition spanning 40 years featuring distances ranging from 5k to a half-marathon, along with youth mile and kiddie races. The club also hosts Group Runs throughout the week. Visit their website for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there beginner-friendly running clubs in Dekalb?
Yes, many clubs in Dekalb welcome runners of all levels, including beginners. Most groups have pace groups for different skill levels.
Where do local running groups in Dekalb typically meet?
Clubs often meet at parks, tracks, or central city landmarks. Each group lists their typical meeting spots on their profiles.
Do I need to register before joining a run?
Most clubs are drop-in friendly, but it's a good idea to check their schedule or contact them in advance.
What should I bring to my first group run?
Bring water, comfortable running shoes, and a positive attitude. Some groups provide water stations, but it's always good to bring your own.