In Nairobi, keeping fit is becoming more of a lifestyle with more people aiming for physical fitness and good health. Since paying for gym membership, pilates, and yoga studios can be expensive, many sort to have home workouts. Amidst this shift, We Run Nairobi is offering free, fun, and community-based running, which is a simpler and accessible alternative.
We Run Nairobi is a free, community-based running and walking club that was founded by Emily Chepkor, a Kenyan lawyer and experienced marathoner, in October 2022. She has completed 10 marathons, including major races both abroad and locally. After discovering how running transformed her well-being, she was inspired to create We Run Nairobi, aiming to make running accessible, fun, and inclusive.
“The club, which started with a few runners, has now gained a huge membership, creating a large wellness community that is mainly supported entirely through social media and word-of-mouth. I never expected the movement to grow this quickly,” Chepkor said.
The club has additional sessions on Thursdays and Sundays, which offer accessible and inclusive physical activity for people of all fitness levels. Participants simply show up and join, which eliminates the inconvenience of sign-ups, fees, or requirements. The club uses various routes in Nairobi, like Karura Forest, Tigoni, and various city streets, for their walks or runs.
Apart from promoting physical fitness, We Run Nairobi has contributed to better mental health and social connection among participants with testaments on improved moods, increased motivation, and a sense of belonging after joining the club.
We Run Nairobi continues to grow, integrating fitness into everyday life in Nairobi. The community stands out even more by removing financial and social inhibitors to participation and has encouraged residents to prioritize fitness and mental well-being.
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