Running Groups in the Capital District NY

The Albany, NY area is rich with running trails and groups to fit an array of runners. You can find a group to train for a marathon, half-marathon and 15k training in the Colonie area, couch to 5k programs at the various YMCAs as well as opportunities to find other running partners at your level in the Capital Region. Whether you are just starting out to train for a 5k or an elite runner there are resources to fit your needs.

Train for Fall Marathons in the North East

USA FIT Albany is part of USA Fit which has been training thousands of runners for distance races for over 22 years. The program which runs from April 28, 2012 - November 3, 2012 helps train first time and long time runners for the Mohawk Hudson River Marathon and Half Marathon, the ING New York City Marathon, The Wine Glass Marathon/Half, the Saratoga Palio and the Utica Boilermaker as well as creates customized plans for other fall marathons and participates in other local races. The fee is $90-$115 for a 6 month season and includes support, seminars, proper nutrition and hydration guidelines as well as valuable group support.

Greater Capital Region

For just $10 a year, Albany Running Exchange can help you find a local running buddy. With tons of members who can post and organize group runs, there are plenty of options. For a small membership fee you receive access to their portal and can pair up with local area runners. They also organize fun races such as the Hairy Gorilla and Squirrelly Six Mile race. This annual event is featured in Runners World and comes complete with Gorilla's, bananas and a trail run like no other.

Saratoga, NY

Saratoga Stryders is based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Established in 1984, they have two training runs a week that are open to the general public. They also have a snowshoe group that meets once a week. All runs meet in the Saratoga Springs area at the Olde Saratoga Brewing Company and the Saratoga Warming Hut. See website for more details and specific dates and times.

Annual membership is $10 for individuals and $15 for families.

Kinderhook, NY

Kinderhook Runners Club organizes group runs and events for all levels. The group meets in Kinderhook, NY on Saturday mornings for group runs. They offer unique benefits such as a Slow Poke Series.

The group offers 3, 5, 9, and 12+ mile courses at 7:30 and 8:00 am on Saturdays as well as Sunday walk/run and mid-week fun run. The club also offers 10 week running clinics and group events. Individual membership is $20 and family is $25

Hudson Mohawk Road Runner's Club offers social events, organizes running events and offers education and training to local area runners. They also organize and host the Mohawk Hudson River Marathon and Half Marathon in October. This race yields one of the highest number of Boston Qualifiers (after the Boston Marathon itself). The flat course is very good for first time participants and those looking for a personal record. The group also offers a training program for the marathon and half marathon.

Latham, NY

Fleet Feet Albany is located in Latham, NY and sells running shoes and equipment. It also offers a winter clinic series and organizes training programs for runners wanting to train for a 5k or other longer distance race available to all experience levels.

Fleet Feet Albany

155 Wolf Road

Albany, NY 12205

518.459.3338

Watch on Amazon for discounts on running shoes and gear. If you would like to save money on shoes, find your favorite brand and wait until they bring out the newest version, the older model typically will go on sale on Amazon. Also watch for discounts on gels (such as Power Gel) and compression socks and hydration gear.