Run Club Spotlight | Logan Square, University Village & rotating locations
Chicago has no shortage of running clubs. Some are built around marathon training. Others are more about the post-run beer than the miles. And then there are clubs like 3RUN2, which have managed to build something that goes well beyond a weekly workout.
Founded in 2013, 3RUN2 started with 15 runners gathering for a neighborhood run around Humboldt Park. More than a decade later, it's become one of the city's established running communities, known for its group runs, race-day energy, and social events.
What makes 3RUN2 interesting is that the running and the community have grown together. You can show up for a casual four-mile run, find people to train with, or get involved in the club's competitive racing scene.
How 3RUN2 Got Started
3RUN2 began with a simple idea from founders Nico and Mica: get some friends together and run through the neighborhood.
The first gathering in Humboldt Park drew just 15 people. The club kept showing up week after week, and the community grew.
In a March 2026 interview with Fleet Feet Chicago, the founders described one of the traditions that helped shape the group. When someone new arrives, they're asked three questions:
- What's your name?
- Where are you from?
- How did you hear about us?
It's a small gesture, but one that says quite a bit about the club's priorities. Running brings people together. Making them feel like they belong is what brings them back.
When and Where Does 3RUN2 Run?
3RUN2 offers regular free group runs in two Chicago neighborhoods, plus a more flexible Saturday gathering.
| Day | Location | Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | University Village, near Halsted & Maxwell | 6:30 PM | 5K, 4 miles, or 8K |
| Thursday | Logan Square, 2511 N. Kedzie | 6:30 PM | 4 miles or 10K |
| Saturday | Rotating, often Logan Square or the lakefront | Varies | Varies |
The weekday runs are the best starting point for newcomers because their locations and meeting times are consistent.
Most runners fall somewhere around 7:00 to 10:00 minutes per mile, depending on who shows up. Importantly, 3RUN2 does not provide formal pace groups, so runners should be comfortable navigating their chosen distance independently or bring a friend.
Saturday runs are more informal. During marathon season, runners often gather near Foster Avenue along the lakefront. During colder months, Bang Bang Pie in Logan Square is a common meeting spot. Check the club's Discord for the latest Saturday details.
Before your first run: Complete the club's online waiver. It's required, even for free group runs.
More Than a Social Run Club
3RUN2 might be best known for its community, but there's some serious running happening here, too.
The club has a competitive racing team with athletes targeting major marathons, fast half-marathons, and other races throughout the year. Its 2026 roster includes runners with marathon personal bests well under three hours.
The racing team has qualifying standards and an application process, but it's built around existing involvement in the community, not just fast finishing times.
That combination is part of 3RUN2's appeal. You don't need to be chasing a Boston qualifier to participate in a Thursday group run. But if racing becomes a bigger part of your life, there are experienced runners in the community to learn from.
The Running Is Only Part of It
Take a look at 3RUN2's event calendar and you'll quickly notice a theme: they know how to turn a run into an event.
The club organizes group runs with post-run parties, race-weekend gatherings, cheer squads, and its annual post-Chicago Marathon dance party.
During 2026, that included events with New Balance, Goose Island, and other partners, plus gatherings around the Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon.
For someone new to Chicago, or someone who's been running solo for years, those connections can be just as valuable as the miles themselves.
Is 3RUN2 Right for You?
3RUN2 is worth checking out if you want running to be more social, whether you're relatively new to the sport or already training for your next marathon.
It's particularly appealing for runners who want a consistent weekday meetup, enjoy getting to know people outside of running, and appreciate a club with a strong local identity.
There is one thing to keep in mind. The regular group runs aren't coached workouts with assigned pace leaders. If you need a structured beginner program or guaranteed pace group, you'll want to consider that before attending.
But if you're comfortable covering a few miles and want to meet more of Chicago's running community, 3RUN2 is an excellent place to start.
How to Join 3RUN2
You don't need to join the racing team or pay for a training program to attend a regular group run.
Start with a Tuesday or Thursday run, complete the waiver beforehand, and check the club's social channels for updates.
Official website: threeruntwo.com
Weekly schedule: threeruntwo.com/schedule2025
Instagram: @3run2
Events: threeruntwo.com/events
This is an independent chi.run feature. Run schedules and locations can change, so confirm details directly with the club before heading out.