What is North Brooklyn Runners. How can you join this free running club. What types of runs and workouts does NBR offer. How does NBR compare to other Brooklyn running clubs like Brooklyn Track Club.
Discover North Brooklyn Runners: Your Gateway to a Vibrant Running Community
North Brooklyn Runners (NBR) stands out as a beacon for running enthusiasts in Brooklyn, offering a diverse and inclusive environment for runners of all levels. This free club has become a cornerstone of the local running scene, providing an impressive array of over 20 runs each week. But what sets NBR apart from other running clubs in the area?
NBR’s commitment to accessibility and variety is evident in its comprehensive weekly training schedule. This carefully designed program caters to runners with various goals, mirroring the structure of professional training plans. By incorporating a mix of easy runs, track workouts, tempo runs, and long runs, NBR ensures that members can effectively prepare for their target races throughout the year.
The NBR Advantage: A Closer Look at the Weekly Schedule
One of the most appealing aspects of North Brooklyn Runners is the sheer variety of runs offered. Let’s break down some of the key sessions:
- Monday Morning Easy Run: A gentle start to the week at McCarren Park
- Tuesday Night Tempo: Speed work to boost your pace
- Wednesday Night Beginner Run: Perfect for those new to running
- Thursday Night Track: A mix of medium and speed work
- Saturday Bridge & Coffee Run: Combine exercise with social time
- Sunday Funday Long Run: Build endurance with like-minded runners
This diverse schedule ensures that runners of all levels can find sessions that suit their needs and goals. But how does NBR cater to beginners while still challenging more experienced runners?
Understanding NBR’s Run Intensities: From Easy to High
North Brooklyn Runners cleverly categorizes its runs by intensity, making it easy for members to choose sessions that align with their current fitness level and goals. Here’s a breakdown of the intensity levels:
- Easy: Conversational pace, ideal for beginners
- Casual: Slightly more upbeat than easy runs
- Medium: Challenging but manageable for intermediate runners
- Speed: Fast-paced runs for more experienced athletes
- High: Reserved for competitive runners meeting specific pace requirements
Notably, NBR designates certain runs with an asterisk (*), indicating the presence of a “Party Pace” group. These runs are particularly welcoming for beginners, ensuring that no one feels left behind or intimidated.
NBR vs. Brooklyn Track Club: A Tale of Two Running Communities
While North Brooklyn Runners offers a free, inclusive model, it’s worth comparing it to another prominent running group in the area: Brooklyn Track Club (BTC). Founded in 2016, BTC has grown into a substantial community with around 700 members. How do these two clubs differ in their approach and offerings?
Brooklyn Track Club: A Brief Overview
Brooklyn Track Club emphasizes the transformative power of running, focusing on how it can improve lives, relationships, and communities. Like NBR, BTC welcomes runners of all backgrounds and abilities. However, there are some key differences:
- Membership Structure: BTC operates on a membership model, while NBR is free to join
- Geographic Spread: BTC members are spread throughout the boroughs, with connections to running communities globally
- Training Approach: BTC offers coached sessions in both Brooklyn and Manhattan, with a range of pace groups
Both clubs share a commitment to inclusivity and community-building through running. But how do they compare in terms of specific offerings and training philosophies?
Tailored Training: How NBR and BTC Support Runner Development
Both North Brooklyn Runners and Brooklyn Track Club offer structured training opportunities, but their approaches differ slightly:
North Brooklyn Runners’ Approach
NBR’s training philosophy revolves around its diverse weekly schedule. By offering a mix of easy runs, speed work, and long runs, NBR allows members to naturally progress in their running journey. The club’s Google Group serves as a hub for daily workout and distance information, ensuring members always know what to expect.
Brooklyn Track Club’s Method
BTC takes a more formalized approach to training, with coached sessions and specific pace groups. Their training includes:
- Multiple weekly runs and training sessions
- Presence of at least one BKTC run coach at each session
- Pace groups ranging from sub-5:30/mile to 10+ minute miles
- Often includes a photographer to capture the running experience
While both clubs cater to a wide range of abilities, BTC’s structure might appeal more to those seeking a coached experience. However, NBR’s free model and extensive schedule offer unparalleled flexibility.
Beyond the Run: Community Building and Special Events
Running clubs are about more than just logging miles. Both NBR and BTC recognize the importance of community-building and offer unique events to foster connections among members.
North Brooklyn Runners’ Special Runs
NBR incorporates fun, themed runs into its schedule to keep things interesting:
- First Friday Salmon Run: A unique way to start the month
- Second Friday Donut Run: Combining running with a sweet treat
- Third Friday Ice Cream Run: A refreshing end to a summer run
These special events add a layer of enjoyment and camaraderie to the running experience, making NBR more than just a training group.
Brooklyn Track Club’s Community Focus
While specific events aren’t detailed, BTC emphasizes its role in building better lives, relationships, and communities through running. Their approach to community-building includes:
- Welcoming runners of all ages, genders, races, and nationalities
- Providing leadership opportunities within the club
- Fostering connections with running communities across the globe
Both clubs recognize that the social aspect of running is crucial for long-term engagement and member satisfaction. But how do they support runners in achieving their competitive goals?
Racing and Competition: How NBR and BTC Support Ambitious Runners
For many runners, participating in races is a key motivator. Both North Brooklyn Runners and Brooklyn Track Club offer support for members with competitive aspirations.
North Brooklyn Runners’ Race Prep
NBR’s weekly schedule is designed to help members train effectively for goal races throughout the year. Key elements include:
- Tuesday Night Local Competitive Tempo: High-intensity run for serious racers
- Thursday Night Track: Speed work to improve race times
- Sunday Funday Long Run: Essential for building endurance for longer races
These targeted sessions allow members to systematically improve their racing performance over time.
Brooklyn Track Club’s Competitive Edge
While specific details about BTC’s race support aren’t provided, their coached sessions and varied pace groups suggest a strong focus on performance improvement. The club’s emphasis on “expanding accessibility and resources” likely extends to supporting members in their racing goals.
Both clubs provide the structure and support needed for runners to excel in races, whether they’re aiming for a personal best in a 5K or tackling their first marathon.
Joining the Running Community: How to Get Started with NBR or BTC
If you’re inspired to join one of these vibrant running communities, here’s how you can get started:
Joining North Brooklyn Runners
NBR makes it easy to become part of their community:
- Visit the NBR website or Google Group for the most up-to-date information
- Choose a run that matches your current fitness level (look for asterisks for beginner-friendly options)
- Show up at the designated time and location
- Introduce yourself to the run leader and other members
Remember, NBR is free to join, so you can try out different runs to find what works best for you.
Joining Brooklyn Track Club
While specific membership details aren’t provided, you can likely join BTC by:
- Visiting the Brooklyn Track Club website
- Looking for membership information or a “Join” section
- Completing any required forms or payments
- Attending an introductory session or run
Both clubs welcome new members and have systems in place to help you integrate into the community quickly.
Whether you choose North Brooklyn Runners or Brooklyn Track Club, you’ll be joining a supportive community of fellow runners. These clubs offer more than just training; they provide a chance to make friends, improve your health, and become part of Brooklyn’s vibrant running scene. So lace up your shoes, choose a club that resonates with you, and take that first step towards a more active, connected lifestyle.
North Brooklyn Runners
NBR is a free club offering more than 20 runs each week. Our weekly training schedule is designed to help you train for your goal races throughout the year. The flow of easy runs, track workouts, tempo runs, and long runs mimics the way that most training plans work. Most days have one type of run, and the morning and night runs tend to mirror each other.
Daily workouts and distances are posted in North Brooklyn Runner’s Google Group. Interested in joining our team? Learn more.
Run | Time and Location | Intensity |
Monday Morning Easy Run | 6:45 AM, McCarren Park | Easy |
Monday Night Plyo | 6:30 PM, McCarren Park | Cross Training |
Monday Night Easy Run | 7:30 PM, McCarren Park | Easy* |
Monday Nite Owls | 9:10 PM, McCarren Park | Medium |
Tuesday Morning Tigerwolves | 6:30 AM, McCarren Park | Speed |
Tuesday Night Local Competitive Tempo | 7:00 PM, Prospect Park | High |
Tuesday Night Tempo | 7:30 PM, McCarren Park | Speed |
Wednesday Mourning Doves | 6:00 AM, McCarren Park | Medium |
Wednesday Night Beginner Run | 7:00 PM, McCarren Park | Easy* |
Wednesday Night Road Run | 7:30 PM, McCarren Park | Casual |
Wednesday Night Form Run | 7:30 PM, Prospect Park | Easy |
Thursday Morning Hellkatz | 6:30 AM, McCarren Park Track | Medium/Speed* |
Thursday Morning ‘Just South’ Tempo | 6:30 AM, Prospect Park | Speed |
Thursday Night Track | 7:30 PM, McCarren Park Track | Medium/Speed* |
First Friday Salmon Run | 7:30 AM, McCarren Park | Easy |
Second Friday Donut Run | 7:30 AM, McCarren Park or Prospect Park | Easy |
Third Friday Ice Cream Run | 6:00 PM, McCarren Park | Easy |
Saturday Narwhals | 8:00 AM, McCarren Park | Medium |
Saturday Local Competitive Run | 7:15 AM, BP Station | High |
Saturday Bridge & Coffee Run | 9:00 AM, Williamsburg Bridge | Easy* |
Sunday Funday Long Run | 8:00 AM, McCarren Park | Medium* |
Intensity | Good For Beginners? | Description |
Easy | Yes | An easy pace where most runners can hold a conversation as they run. |
Casual | Yes | A slightly more upbeat run than the totally casual run. |
Medium | No | Slightly harder running than casual pace. It should still be possible to talk but it will require more effort than it does at slower speeds. |
Speed | No | Fast running normally reserved for speed-work and tempo runs, it should be difficult to speak more than a few words at this speed. |
High | No | These runs are reserved for our Local Competitive runners at extremely high paces. Please check our Local Competitive requirements to see if you qualify. |
* | Yes | Any run listed with an asterisk means there will be a “Party Pace” present at the run and is a great place for beginners. |
BROOKLYN TRACK CLUB – Home
Brooklyn Track Club was founded in 2016 when a small group of friends discovered that their lives were better when they ran.Soon, friends of friends showed up at the track, then friends of friends of friends, until we became what we are today: A team of people from all backgrounds and walks of life who believe that running is a gateway to better lives, relationships and communities. Now in our 8th year as a team, we have 700 members spread throughout the boroughs, with friends in sister running communities across the globe. Our priority is to expand accessibility and resources to as diverse a body of runners as possible. We’re excited to welcome new runners and veterans, young and old, people of all paces and backgrounds and goals to come and learn from one another. Let’s see where our legs can carry us. |
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Membership Brooklyn Track Club strives to provide our members with consistent, inclusive access toward cooperative and competitive running experiences. |
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Training
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Team Sponsor:
BKTC Partners
New York State in NewRunners
We continue to talk about the running clubs of America, and today we have New York State in turn.
We continue to talk about running clubs in America, and today we have the state of New York.
New York is just made for running, it has all the necessary infrastructure: paths, parks and even special traffic lights for runners. It was here that the running fever once began, which spread throughout the world. In New York, it is easy to find a partner for training: there are about 200 running clubs in the city, united by a variety of interests. New York is a trendsetter in everything. Not so long ago, urban running clubs appeared here, which turn their workouts into outdoor parties. You can talk endlessly about running in this city, as well as about its clubs. We have selected the brightest of them.
Traditional running clubs:
New York Road Runners (NYRR)
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In 1958, an African-American runner, one of the first ultramarathon runners in the world, Ted Corbitt, founded the Road Runners of America club, which consisted of only 47 athletes. In the next ten years, the number increased to 250 people, many of whom took part in the first New York City Marathon. Two years after that, Fred Lebow led the NYRR. Under his leadership, the New York Marathon grew and the first Crazylegs Mini Marathon (New York Mini 10k) for women was organized. In the wake of the running craze, NYRR has grown into a massive organization that promotes a nationwide running culture. Now the NYRR races are known all over the world, the TCS New York City Marathon is one of the six largest running events in the world. The club has its own running center, training programs have been developed for people of all ages: children, students, the elderly. In 2016, over 120,000 students took part in NYRR’s free training. The once local running club has become the umbrella organization for hundreds of running clubs and races around the country.
Warren Street
In 1978, three runners – Paul Fetscher, Hugh Sweeney and Alan Silber – decided to create a running club that would be a little more fun and free than other clubs of the time. The name was coined by Sweeney, who lived on Warren Street, where the runners found their first sponsor, the Shannon Bar. This is how the tradition of ending the workout with a glass of beer appeared – it has survived to this day. Group training takes place on Tuesdays in Central Park during the summer, with groups moving to the New Balance Track & Field Center during the winter. Club membership is free, but you must come to training in a branded T-shirt, which can be purchased for $50.
Alternative Running Clubs:
BridgeRunners
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“Never run alone” is the slogan of the BridgeRunners Club, founded in 2004. The idea of creating it came to Mike Saes when he was late for his son at school. Attempts to hail a cab were unsuccessful, and he had to run across the Brooklyn Bridge to get there. “Bridges are just made for running,” he told Cedric Hernandez that evening. Together they created the BridgeRunners, a concept very different from traditional New York City running clubs. For the BridgeRunners, running is a fun part of life, and training, like a party, is a great excuse to get out into the city. Several times a week, about 300 people take to the streets of New York in the evening and use it as a large playing field. They do not have clear routes, and every workout turns into an adventure. This approach attracted the attention of Nike, who became a sponsor of the club and its events. In 2012, the BridgeRunners met up with fellow London running club Run Dem Crew in Berlin and called the meeting Bridge the Gap. With the help of Nike, these informal get-togethers have become regular and are held before major running events around the world. In 2016, Bridge the Gap took place on the eve of the Musical Half Marathon in Moscow.
The running elite run through the night streets of New York, overtaking unsuspecting pedestrians, through parks and the subway. A post shared by BLACK ROSES NYC (@blackrosesnyc) on
Black Roses NYC actually grew out of BridgeRunners. The founders of the club – Knox Robinson, editor of a hip-hop magazine, and runner Jessie Zapo – were once members of the BridgeRunners. In 2012, at the Shanghai Marathon, they announced a new running project – Black Roses NYC. Jessie wanted to focus on developing women’s running, and Knox, being an experienced runner, was convinced that special training was needed to reduce the risk of injury. Together they developed a program that combines classic workouts with urban runs, while, according to the organizers, they are no less incendiary and fun than Bridge Runners. In the first six months, the number of participants has doubled, and now Black Roses NYC is one of the most famous urban running clubs in New York and its main partner is Nike. You can join the ranks of the Black Roses for $125 per year. 9A post shared by Joe DiNoto (@orchardstreetrunners) on
New York is one of those cities that never sleep. Joe Di Noto, a young architect from the Lower East Side, loved to run around the streets of New York at night. One day he came up with the idea to unite experienced runners who can overcome 6-10 miles in a city at night. So in 2011, Orchard Street Runners appeared. To become one of its members, you must not only be hardy, but also follow a few rules: know the route (it is published in advance), be careful (the risk of injury increases at night), and do not use headphones while jogging. Often the guys from Black Roses NYC join the OSR, and then the training turns into a massive party on the run. When the number of participants exceeded 100, Joe decided to arrange a street race starting after midnight – Midnight Half. The running elite run through the night streets of New York, overtaking unsuspecting pedestrians, through parks and subways, with the winner at the finish line receiving only a few hundred dollars and the respect of the running crowd. Midnight Half does not have sponsors, although many brands would like to become one, but Di Noto does not want the race to be accompanied by advertising slogans. Despite being semi-legal, Midnight Half is attracting more and more of the running elite, such as Jerry Faulkner and Christina Phillips. Analogues of the race began to appear in other cities, but with such drive it takes place only in New York.
Running clubs of America: Washington
Running clubs of America: California
Photo: Facebook.com/www.warrenstreet.org
10 best places for runs in New York
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Even those who have never been in New York know that in this city all residents are running, not just running, but certainly in the central park. Of course, this impression of New York is formed thanks to the cinema. However, not Central Park alone! We have selected for you 10 interesting places where jogging can really bring not only benefits, but also pleasure.
These scenic trails offer unrivaled views of the rivers, Manhattan skyline or ocean and can keep you motivated to keep exercising.
1. Van Cortlandt Park
If you want to feel like you’re out of town, Van Cortlandt Park is your best bet. Take the #1 subway train to 242 Street Station and start your 3.5-mile run as soon as you enter the park. Along the way you will see Vault Hill, the “Back Hills of Vanny”, statues of a tortoise and a hare, and the Van Cortland House Museum. If you’ve got an appetite, there’s Lloyd’s Carrot Cake nearby for a post-run snack.
2. Central Park
The most classic! A favorite spot for Central Park runners is the Central Park Reservoir, which offers a 1.5-mile trail on a very gentle slope. There are plenty of other options in Central Park, including the 6.1-mile full loop around the park or the shorter Bridle Path. The latter includes two spans of 1.66 miles and a circle around the reservoir, while the full loop is 2.5 miles. It passes through the North Meadow fields and reaches 102 Street.
3. Riverside Park and Hudson River Greenway
Enjoy a jog along Riverside Park from 72nd Street to 158th Street and enjoy the Hudson breeze. The park also has public restrooms, a skate park, and several sports fields where you can stop and add variety to your workout with pull-ups, for example.
4. Highline
If you can get to the Highline park early in the morning – in time for its opening at 7 am, then you will have the opportunity to enjoy a run without crowds of tourists. Here you will find an almost empty oasis and the perfect place for an early morning run. The park offers a 1.5-mile trail, with plenty of drive-in and drive-out options and places to grab a post-workout snack. It is known as a good option for beginner runners who can easily take a break on one of the benches, as well as for those who like to run with an amazing view of Chelsea.
5. Battery Park City
Run along the southern tip of Manhattan for incredible views of the Hudson and New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the New Jersey coastline. The Battery Park City Esplanade is known as a walker’s paradise with numerous parks, gardens, marinas and art objects. And if you are carried away and want to run further – just do not stop. This way you can run all the way to the George Washington Bridge – it’s almost 12.3 miles, but don’t worry, the scenery will distract you from your exertions.
6. Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge Park
You probably won’t be able to run across the Brooklyn Bridge on the weekends – there are usually huge crowds of tourists on Saturdays and Sundays. But if you can get there at dawn, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views of Manhattan. After running across the bridge, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park if you want to keep running, or just find a bench to sit down and enjoy the view.
7. Prospect Park
In Brooklyn, Prospect Park offers several running tracks on 585 acres, ranging in length from 1.5 to 3.5 miles. There are several track clubs you can join, including the Prospect Park track club where you can find frequent competitions and races organized by the New York Road Runners Club and the Brooklyn Road Runners Club.
8. Coney Island Boardwalk
The fun atmosphere will keep you entertained while you run – you don’t even have to turn on your music on your headphones! During the off-season, Coney Island is eerily empty, but during the summer, the crowds can be huge. Choose an early morning run if you want to avoid this. Take the D, F, N, or Q trains to the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station and you will be delivered right to the center of the approximately 2.5-mile boardwalk.
9. Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
Nearly four miles of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, starting on the sidewalk near station 7 of the Mets-Willets Point subway train, take you to many of the park’s attractions, including the Queens Museum of Art, Unisphere and Citi Field. Get out for a run early in the morning or in the evening as there is little shade during the day and there can be a lot of pedestrians. If possible, try to catch the sunrise or sunset over the Unisphere.
10. Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island is located between Manhattan and Queens and can be reached by F train or cable car. The jogging track is a scenic strip along the 3.5-mile perimeter of the island. Enjoy views of Midtown Manhattan and the Queensboro Bridge, as well as the peace and quiet of the island.
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Buildings
One of the first skyscrapers in the United States – Freedom Tower in Miami
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One of the first skyscrapers in the USA – Freedom Tower in Miami
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One of the first skyscrapers in the USA – Freedom Tower in Miami
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