A group of nearly 50 runners can be seen circling campus most weekdays around 4:15 p.m., often gathering outside State Gym before setting off together.
The club welcomes all types of runners, from those training for cross-country meets and long-distance road races to athletes focusing on shorter track and field events. Cross-country season takes place in the fall, while track and field competition begins in the spring.
Run club provides an alternative to the traditional high school or collegiate varsity atmosphere, offering a competitive outlet without the same level of pressure. It serves both beginners seeking accountability and experienced runners aiming to continue chasing personal records.
“While running may not be for everyone, everyone who stays with us assures that becoming a runner is one of the best decisions of their lives,” sophomore Colin Wenzel said.
For members seeking competition, opportunities include marathons, road races, cross-country meets and track and field events. Iowa State competes through the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association and frequently faces Midwest programs such as Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin.
The meets offer a middle ground for former varsity athletes who still crave competition, as well as those who never competed at the collegiate level but want to test themselves in an organized setting.
Practices begin at 4:15 p.m. outside State Gym with announcements followed by a one-mile warmup. Afterward, runners split into groups based on preferred distance and pace.
Leadership opportunities are available through the club’s executive team, which includes a president, vice president, cross-country captain, track and field captain and social chairs. The executive team organizes practices and plans events throughout the semester.
Membership has grown to 71 runners, driven in part by the club’s welcoming atmosphere.
“Run club is one of the most welcoming communities I’ve been a part of at Iowa State,” senior Abbey Vezina said. “Everyone is super supportive of each other at practices and meets and it’s been really fun to still compete in races, but the best part has been meeting some of my closest friends.”
Beyond training and competition, the club hosts biweekly social events to strengthen community bonds.
“Some of our past socials have been anything like ice cream social, ice skating, game night, a Super Bowl watch party, destination long run and more,” Vice President Isabella Hornbostel said.
