Run Club of The Week - Cool Runnings Club

Testing Run Clubs in Berlin: Cool Runnings 🎧☕

Cool Runnings – Challenging runners to improve while keeping it fun and community-focused.

Last week, I joined Cool Runnings Club for a special version of their fortnightly Saturday morning run, and it quickly became clear that they’re not your average run club.

I had the privilege to catch up with Tithey, one of the founders, and here’s what he had to say. Watch the interview

✨ Note: I’ve stopped giving clubs a numerical score. It’s all about the vibe, and each club offers something unique. I’ll be focusing on highlighting the USP instead of attaching a number ✨

1️⃣ Vibe & Community 🤝✨

If you’re looking for a club that feels as welcoming as it is motivating, Cool Runnings delivers. The vibe is upbeat and supportive, no matter your pace or experience level. With runners from all over the world (a mix of locals, and expats), there’s a genuine sense of inclusivity that makes you feel part of something bigger from the very first run.

Each session emphasizes community over competition. The group is divided into different pace groups (4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 per km), so everyone finds their rhythm without pressure. Post-run socializing is a key part of the experience. The runs are often hosted at cafés, turning every session into a relaxed hangout over coffee, matcha, or snacks.

2️⃣ Route & Scenery 🏞️👀

Cool Runnings’ main social runs start from Le Café Tonton, taking a 5–6K route along the Spree River. The route stays consistent for these sessions: simple, flat, and scenic. On a sunny day, the river views and open skies make for a stunning backdrop that keeps the energy high and the mood light.

The surface is smooth and safe, with minimal traffic and very few traffic lights, making it ideal for chatting while running. The path is also well-lit, which is a big plus for evening runs. While it might not be the most varied route in Berlin, it’s reliable, well-chosen, and enjoyable. The kind of run that feels effortless because of the atmosphere around you.

3️⃣ Training & Structure 📈🏃‍♂️

Cool Runnings is one of the few Berlin run clubs that truly balances structure with accessibility. There’s a proper warm-up at the start, led by experienced runners — many of the run leads are semi-professional or professional athletes, bringing real knowledge and energy to the group.

You can choose your pace group depending on how you feel that day (4:30, 5:30, or 6:30 per km), and the workouts themselves vary depending on the type of run. From easy-paced social runs to track sessions, tempo runs, or interval workouts, Cool Runnings offers something for every kind of runner.

There’s no formal cool-down, which could be a nice future addition, but most people naturally slow it down together and continue chatting — a relaxed way to wrap up an energizing session.

4️⃣ Facilities & Perks 🎒🚿

Cool Runnings runs are designed for convenience and comfort. The main meeting points (cafés and community spaces) provide bag drop, bathroom access, and water stations. It’s a simple setup but everything you actually need before and after a run.

For special events, the club goes all out. The session I joined was supported by AG1, offering samples of their daily nutrient boost before the run, and Unpacked, which provided post-run protein smoothies. There was also coffee, matcha, and snacks for everyone. A great perk for runners that made the post-run social moment feel special.

Some events even feature a DJ, turning the finish line into a small celebration rather than just the end of a workout.

5️⃣ Uniqueness & Identity 🔥🎭

Cool Runnings has one of the strongest personalities among Berlin’s running collectives. It’s not just about movement, it’s about mindset and motivation. Their philosophy is clear: help runners become the best version of themselves while keeping the experience fun and community-driven.

The club has a bold, recognizable energy: upbeat, confident, and well-organized. With brand collaborations from partners like Puma, Adidas, AG1, and Unpacked, Cool Runnings consistently brings exciting opportunities to the community, from giveaways and product seeding to full-blown brand events. Every few months, they host bigger runs or themed events, adding variety to their regular sessions.

There are no chants or rituals, but the atmosphere itself feels like a ritual: supportive, consistent, and full of intention.

Final Thoughts: Is Cool Runnings Club Worth Joining?

Absolutely! and especially if you’re someone who values both structure and community. Cool Runnings combines well-organized training, inclusivity, and a strong social vibe that makes every run feel purposeful. Whether you’re improving your pace, meeting new people, or just looking for a dose of motivation, this club is a fantastic choice.