The rundown on walking and running clubs: FREE fitness in Perth
by Brooke Pree, Nutrition and Health Promotion student
- July 22, 2024
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With the increasing popularity of running in recent years, there is an abundance of running and walking groups to join (for free!) to encourage you to get moving in an environment of supportive individuals. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, or this is your first walk in a while, these encouraging communities welcome you whatever your fitness level. And don’t let the term “run club” deter you, these groups are about community and connection and as Perth Frontrunners say, at most clubs everyone is welcome whether you “run, stroll, roll or crap jog!”
Coastal Run Clubs
If you’re looking to run or walk with beautiful views of the sunrise or sunset over the ocean, these coastal based groups will leave you feeling accomplished, connected and ready to take on the day.
- Rise + Run Club (Cottesloe) - Fridays 6 am, every 2nd Sunday 7 am
- Perth Run Collective (Trigg) - Sunday Social 8 am
- The 440 (Cottesloe) - Saturdays 5:55 am
- Coastal Cadence (Fremantle) - Tuesdays & Fridays 5:45 am
- The Early Ones (Scarborough) - see their Instagram for times
Run/walk clubs with something extra
These running/walking groups offer something a little extra, making your run or walk a whole new experience. Connect with likeminded individuals who want to improve their fitness, meet new people and be a part of a community.
Kid-friendly
- Manning Park Trail Runners (Spearwood) - Kids group Thursdays 5 pm, main session 6 pm
Pilates and run club
- Hybrid Club (Sorrento) – 30 min Pilates & 30 min run, Saturdays 7 am, $15
LGBTIQA+ allies
- Perth Frontrunners (Kings Park) - Saturdays 8 am, $50 membership fee
Track running
- Perth Run Collective (Subiaco) - Tuesdays 5:45 pm
Dog-friendly
- Heart Foundation walking groups (various locations) – search your location first, then select the “dog friendly” filter to find the perfect walking group for you and your pup
Walking groups
- West Coast Walking Club (Trigg) - Saturdays 7 am
- Go Get Hers (pop up events) – see their Instagram for details
- Perth Community Walking Group - see the Facebook Group for details
- Heart Foundation walking groups (various locations) – search for a walking group near you
Many local government areas also offer walking groups, including:
- Town of Bassendean
- City of Bayswater
- City of Belmont
- City of Cambridge
- City of Cockburn
- City of Gosnells
- City of Rockingham
- City of Stirling
- Town of Victoria Park
Parkrun
Parkrun is a global volunteer run community with group walks and runs every Saturday morning at 8 am, held at many locations all over Perth. Tracks are always 5 km, there is no time limit for completion and everyone is welcome to join in no matter what your experience. They also offer a 2 km junior parkrun for 4-14 year olds and their families on Sunday mornings. You just need to register once and you’ll be able to attend any parkrun anywhere in the world. See their interactive map to find a parkrun event near you.
Couch To 5k
The Couch to 5k running program is an incredible resource for beginner runners and beyond. The program is designed to get anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers or 30 minutes in only nine weeks.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated and refuel after your run or walk. Check out our tips on the best way to refuel after a run.
DISCLAIMER: the information included in this article was correct at the time of publication. For up-to-date information please reach out to event coordinators and organisations directly.
