Stop number five in our run-every-run-club-in-Chicago series was Family Style Run Club, and this one lives up to its name in every way. Family Style Run Club is about the run, sure, but it’s really about what happens after the run: everybody at a table together.
We caught up with them on National Hot Dog Day, which meant one thing: Hot Dog Hill. Thirty minutes of hill repeats, with the whole group cheering each other on the entire time. If you’ve never done hill repeats with a crowd yelling for you at the top, it changes the experience completely. Tired legs, big smiles, zero pressure.
Family Style Run Club
Where & When: Meetups rotate all over Chicagoland, so keep an eye on their socials for the next one.
The Route: Runs typically land around 3 miles, and the group builds in shortened walking routes so nobody gets left choosing between “too far” and “not coming.”
The Pace: All paces welcome, from 7:30 to 13 minute miles, and walkers are just as much a part of the group as anyone else. Nobody’s out here alone at the back.
The Vibe: This is one of the friendliest groups we’ve found yet. It’s supportive in that specific way where people are actually watching out for each other, not just running near each other. And true to the name, once everyone’s finished, the group heads off to eat together.
Our Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars. If you’re a new runner still figuring out where you fit in this sport, Family Style RC is about as welcoming a place to start as it gets. If you’re a runner who’s also a foodie, or if you’re just looking for a fresh way to shake up your usual routine, this one’s for you too.
Family style, indeed
CUSS Running is on a mission to run with every run club in Chicago. Got a club we should visit next? Tell us on social.
