RUN CREWS charity events a few times a year . On Mandela Day this year , we collected over 1000 secondhand running shoes and clothing items , which we donated to the Inanda trail running community on a very special day . We also had our annual charity day event in August , where we raised R25,000 for the Sithanda School , which needed to be repainted and fixed up . This has become a key focus for us – helping others – and we are lucky to have a wonderful community of people who always react amazingly .
Why do you think people join Run Boss ?
Human beings need community , and I think many of the older running clubs are perhaps a bit too set in their ways , whereas modern communities are finding ways to make training and connecting fun and cool . I also think our members love the post-run stuff that comes with it ... the Strava posting , the PBs , the photos on Instagram , and the reels . It ’ s almost like the run is 30 % of it , but the other 70 % is chatting about it afterwards in the Whatsapp groups , and planning the next run ! Even though some may not want to admit it , I think our group provides a space to put the phones away and really connect with people . I think the younger generation really needs , and craves , that
connection , and that ’ s why we sometimes joke that Run Boss is the “ Athletic Tinder ,” because we give everyone a chance to meet in real life .
Does Run Boss collaborate with any other brands ?
We ’ ve been fortunate to partner with incredible brands like PUMA , adidas and Salomon , who bring their latest gear for us to test and learn about . This keeps things fresh , and gives our runners exciting opportunities to try top-notch equipment , while also getting expert guidance from some of our seasoned members . It ’ s all about enriching the experience and adding value , without any financial transactions , by keeping Run Boss accessible to everyone .
What advice would you give to new runners ?
It can be intimidating to start , because you feel like everyone is faster and fitter , but everyone started somewhere . I ’ m not a great runner , myself , but I just love everything that comes with it , and I really love the way it ’ s given me some calm and a competitive edge all rolled into one , whilst connecting me with so many great new people . I think many people may have the perception of running being ‘ clicky ,’ but it ’ s really not , and perhaps my favourite part of the whole thing is watching the
transformations . Therefore , my advice would be to challenge yourself to change your approach . Running is hard , but the more you do hard things , the more you get used to doing hard things , and it makes the other chaos in life seem manageable .
Can anybody join one of your runs ?
Run Boss welcomes runners from all levels , from those aiming for a sub-three-hour marathon to beginners working through their first 5km . Whether you ’ re on a coaching programme or just coming out for fun , our sessions are easy to follow thanks to the experience we have within the group . And if you ’ re looking to combine fitness with friendship in a supportive environment , Run Boss is the place for you . Come join us for a run , and see how running together can make a world of difference !
Images : Courtesy Run Boss Run Crew
You ’ ll find the Run Boss crew on Instagram at https :// www . instagram . com / runnboss , and you can join one of their runs on Tuesday , Thursday and Saturday mornings at 5:15am , mostly starting at Fábrica Coffee Shop in Glenore Centre , Durban .
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