The Long Beach Run Club
Getting into healthy running shape is a worthy goal, and if you’re hoping to complete the Long Beach Marathon on October 5, it’s an absolute must. You have just over seven weeks to finish your training for the big race. Why not increase your focus and fun by joining forces with other athletes in a local running club?
You’ll get a big boost from being around like-minded people, become familiar with the beautiful Downtown course sections, and find out where the club members like to do their all-important pre-marathon carbo loading! Lean into your race prep with some new friends and get to the dramatic downhill finish (and your hard-earned medal) on Shoreline Drive with total joy and confidence.
Downtown Runners LB run crew
“Downtown Runners LB is a great social club for people who happen to run,” is the famous quote from organizer Joaquin Nuñez. The club attracts serious marathoners and triathletes as well as casual runners to its Wednesday evening and Saturday morning runs. “Some folks on Saturday even walk the route,” Nuñez noted.” It’s a great way to meet new people.”
The club begins its Wednesday runs at a different Downtown eatery or drinkery each week. Wednesday’s five-mile run takes participants over to Shoreline Aquatic Park in a circuit past the lighthouse.
Nuñez mentioned Beachwood and ISM Brewing in addition to Altar Society as club favorites for post-run beers. For carbo loading, he again recommended ISM, noting that “they have a great, evolving food menu.”
Long Beach Frontrunners team at the 42nd annual LA pride run
Everyone is welcome at runs organized by this LGBTQ+ inclusive running and walking club. Most runs begin and end on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday evenings near the corner of Ocean and Redondo, and there are many DTLB-centered runs. “Our favorite Downtown path is Harvey Milk Plaza to the Queen Mary and back,” said club organizer Leiana.
For carbo loading, Leiana suggested Sonoratown at 244 E 3rd St. “They have a delicious menu,” she said. “We love getting food there after our runs!”
The club’s Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday runs begin at 6:30 PM. Tuesday’s starting location can vary. Make sure to check the Long Beach Frontrunners website to stay updated!
The Long Beach Run Club running crew
Long Beach Run Club’s main goal is to establish a supportive, friendly community. Athletes at any skill level are encouraged to join in. Participation in the club is free. All you need to do is show up!
“Our favorite runs are on the beach path. The views during sunset are amazing,” said club organizer Walter Terrazas. “A close second is our run to the lighthouse and back.” The club meets every Tuesday at 7 PM on the corner of Ocean and Coronado. Their runs start and finish at this spot.
The club does the post-run refreshment thing at cool spots all over town, including Altar Society on Pine Avenue. For pre-marathon carbo loading in Downtown, Terrazas suggested 123 Pho at 210 E 3rd Street. Rice noodles, the primary component of pho, are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates! “123 Pho definitely hits the post-marathon spot as well,” Terrazas added.
Running a full marathon — or even a half marathon — is a lot. Becoming affiliated with these clubs will enable you to enjoy the camaraderie and fun of running and walking for exercise without feeling obligated to push your limits. Work within your own plan, and remember: It will be almost as satisfying to cheer for your new running friends during race day as it would be to run the marathon yourself!