How to Join a Trail Running Club

Trail running is a sport that is intensely personal, but one that doesn't need to be enjoyed alone. You can always head to a trail and go running alone, but you can also join a running club. There are dozens of truly dedicated running clubs around the country, some of which are recreational, others competitive. Whichever type of club you choose to join, you'll find other trail runners just like you who can't wait to hit the dirt next. Follow these steps to learn how to join them.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Club rules
• Club dues
• Registration

Join a Trail Running Club

1. Head to the Trail Runner magazine website (see below) to find an extensive list of clubs currently chartered. The included list features clubs from around the country, not just in your area. Plus, the site has links so you can contact each club directly.

2. Learn about the charter of each club. Each trail running club is different, and thus will have different requirements for membership. Almost all require that you pay a fee to become a member, so expect at least some financial responsibility when you wish to become a member.

3. Find a sponsor. Some of the more prestigious clubs require that you be invited by another member. Usually you can go to meetings or join trail events and get to know members and determine whether or not you are a good fit for the club.

4. Join a competitive club to quench your thirst for racing and the challenge of pitting yourself against others in sanctioned events. Races a held year-round, coast to coast. Some clubs are known to head from one spot to the next in order to represent their regions and their sport.

5. Offer to help with the management and administration of the club. Some clubs insist that its members help as part of their membership responsibility.

Tips & Warnings

• Join a club willing to travel. Some clubs are devoted to just running local trails, but if you want to truly become a trail runner then you are going to want to see trails across the country (and even the world!).
• Don't cheat or behave in an unsporting manner when you are participating in a race as part of a club. Cheating or being generally disruptive will often lead to disqualification from a race as well as removal from your club.

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