If you enjoy running, or you want to start but aren't so enthusiastic about doing it alone, finding a group of like-minded individuals can do you a lot of good. Online communities serve as a great way to connect with people who share similar interests. And, luckily, there’s a variety of virtual running clubs and communities that you can join.

Whether you’re a newbie looking for tips, an experienced runner looking for competitive running challenges, or you simply want to share your passion for running with others, there’s a platform suitable for you.

1. Onetrack

Onetrack website home page

Onetrack is a platform that provides professional running coach services to all types of runners. Whether you're on a beginner, intermediate, or advanced level, you'll find a coach suitable for you.

You can choose from a variety of coaching plans, including a beginner 5K, a half-marathon, a sub-20-minute 5K, and other running goals that require training and preparation. You can also use the on-demand workout where you train at your own pace using Onetrack’s guided video and audio workouts.

Onetrack allows you to participate in virtual run sessions from any location. All you have to do is sign up for one of the subscription packages available on the website.

2. Virtual Running Club

Virtual Running Club information page

If you’re into fitness challenges, this community will be perfect for you. Virtual Running Club hosts virtual races and other running events to unite running enthusiasts. The club hosts both short and long-distance running challenges and is suitable for all ages. With over 80,000 participants, you’ll surely find the encouragement and accountability you need to run your best.

If you’re into long-distance running, explore the various challenges with high-mileage runs on the Virtual Running Club website. To register, you can simply click on a challenge that appeals to you, and you’ll be guided through the process. You can connect with other runners through Virtual Running Club’s private Facebook group, as well as the smaller groups available for specific events and challenges.

3. Run The Edge

Run The Edge welcome page

If you’re looking for an inclusive community that doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all approach, look no further than Run The Edge. This is a great virtual running club that helps you find a supportive community from all over the world.

On Run The Edge, you can choose a virtual challenge to join, make use of the tracking tool by syncing it with your fitness watch, or manually add your data. This allows you to easily follow your progress in challenges. The challenges on Run The Edge start at $30, and you can purchase merchandise from the online store.

4. Run For The World

Run for The World web page

Run For The World is a community that aims to motivate as many people as possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay fit. Whether you’d like to start with a short run, or you want to train for a marathon, you’ll find the assistance you need.

Through the wide range of virtual running events, you’re bound to find something suitable for your capabilities. The types of events on Run For The World include: solo events, challenge events, open events, and free events.

To join a virtual event, you’ll have to pay a joining fee, which varies on the events, unless you catch one of the free events. If you’ve already set up a Strava account, Run For The World also allows you to link it so that you can track your progress.

5. MedalMad

MedalMad website home page

If you’re the type of person who gets motivated by receiving rewards, look no further. MedalMad is an online platform that motivates its community through challenge groups, a system that helps you track milestones, support from other members, and rewards.

The online community allows you to stay motivated as you see the results of members' challenges. If you have kids who love to run, MedalMad has a separate membership option for kids 15 and under, with security restrictions to keep them safe online. Becoming a MedalMad member is free, but all challenges on the website have a fee you need to pay to participate.

6. Run End to End

Website information on Run End To End

Run End to End is perfect for anyone looking for a large community filled with camaraderie. This platform hosts over 150,000 people across 118 countries who participate in the virtual challenges on the site.

Run End to End has 12 challenges from various routes across the globe. When you participate in a challenge, you’ll be awarded virtual postcards as you progress on your route. Once you’ve completed a challenge, you’ll receive a medal and T-shirt, which will be mailed to you.

If you’re looking for ways to add fun into the workplace, Run End to End also offers corporate challenges designed to get you and your colleagues moving and healthy.

7. Run To The Finish

If you're interested in running, but you're hesitant because you don't know who to turn to for all the questions that you have, look no further. Not everyone has a budget for an expensive personal coach, but luckily you no longer need one.

Run To The Finish by Amanda Brooks hosts a virtual running club to help you reach your personal goals to become a better runner. To become a member, you can sign up for just $29.99.

When you sign up for a virtual run club membership, you’ll gain access to challenges, live coaching, and a supportive online community. You’ll also receive training plans, video workouts, and courses to ensure that you’re well on your way to living a healthy life.

Find Your Online Community of Runners

Virtual communities serve as a great way to find people with common interests from all over the world. Not just that, but you can find mentorship, friendship, support, and motivation by joining an online community.

Gone are the days when you had to be physically present to participate in a running club. The above-mentioned running communities will help you on your fitness journey and allow you to become the best runner you can be. Online communities and websites aren't the only resources available to help you with your running, there are plenty of other tools available online.