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Best Running Clubs In Detroit

Running Club

Detroit is known for its harsh and outrageously cold winter months that can make the mere thought of a typical jog around the block sound more like a chilly death sentence. Still, winter months are not the time to let the pounds pile on. Check out our list of clubs that will keep you running even when the cold begs you to stay at home in your recliner. Before you know it, you'll be ready for another warm Motown spring and your body will thank you for all the hard work.

Hansons Running
3407 Rochester Road
Royal Oak, Mi 48073
(248) 616.9665
www.hansons-running.com

First opened at its single Utica location back in 1991, the Hansons Running Group/Shop now has four locations across Metro Detroit to serve all of your running needs. With a storefront that holds a wide variety of running gear and clothing essentials, you'll be ready to join some of the elite Hansons' running clubs in no time. The Hansons' groups are well-known for their serious attitude towards running, and may not be the best choice for beginners, but experienced runners will find a challenging group ready to keep their pulses pounding.

Related: Best Scenic Running Paths in the Detroit Area

Downtown Detroit Runners & Walkers
(248) 356-0825
www.fitlink.com

The Downtown Detroit Runners & Walkers group is one of Detroit proper's most popular running clubs still in action these days. Members, who range from all levels of experience and number between 30-40 individuals per meeting, decide on a location beforehand to meet for some pre-run camaraderie and then set to the streets; rain, snow or shine. Membership is free and many runners will often meet up after the the event at local establishments throughout Detroit for drinks and a well-earned meal. Please email downtownrunners@hotmail.com for more information about winter runs and singing up.

The Motor City Striders
10144 Lincoln Drive
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
(248) 544-9099
www.motorcitystriders.com

In 1959, a small group of runners ran a five-mile event along Belle Isle in the Detroit River because they could. Now about to enter their 55th-year of operation in Motown, The Motor City Striders recently wrapped up another successful year of group runs and have their eyes set upon the coming 2013 running season. With a focus on long-distance running, this group helps to train and prepare members for a number of Detroit-area runs ranging from mediocre 5Ks to the annual Detroit Free Press/Talmer Bank International Marathon. An application to join is available on the website with a $15 fee. All applicants under 18 will need a parent or guardian's signature to join. Please contact Ed Kozloff at racebreak@aol.com for more information.

Stoney Creek Running Club
51194 Romeo Plank Road #204
Macomb, MI 48042
(586) 781-4242
www.stonycreekdistancerun.org

Stoney Creek Metro Park is home to one of southeast Michigan's most beautiful and scenic running tracks that spans over six miles around the heart of Stoney Creek Lake. Runners of all levels are welcome to fill out an application available on the website to join in for the year-round group runs and social events. Each member's abilities are gauged by professional trainers and a regimen is set up to help each individual succeed to their highest potential. Runs are held on Saturdays and Sundays all year round and also on alternating Tuesdays and Thursdays as well. Membership is $20 per individual or $25 per family. Also, all members receive a special 10 percent discount on non-sale merchandise from Hansons Running Shop.

Detroit Jets Track Club
24658 Roanoke Ave.
Oak Park, MI 48237
(248) 632-4208
www.detroitjets.wix.com

Started back in 1999 by former Detroit running coach Steven Mitchell in an effort to help motivate young, impoverished adults to stay active in their communities, the Detroit Jets Track Club is now one of Motown's most impressive success stories. This non-profit organization has helped to influence change in the inner city for over a decade and is helped in major part by donations and assistance from volunteers around the metro area. With the 2013 schedule already planned out and group organizing for the upcoming year underway, you can fill out an application form online to either become a member of the Detroit Jets or to volunteer at many of its upcoming events. Membership is free, but a uniform can be ordered online along with the application process. T-Shirts are $12 and sweatshirts are $25. All donations are tax-deductible as the Detroit Jets are a (5013c) non-profit organization.

Related: Best CrossFit Studios In The Detroit Area

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Michael Ferro is freelance writer and a graduate of Michigan State University where he majored in Creative Writing and received the Jim Cash Creative Writing Award. Born and bred in Detroit, he currently resides in Ypsilanti Township. Additional writing can be found at Examiner.com.

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