Run Club of the Week - Forward Running

Testing Run Clubs in Berlin: Forward Running ⏩️💜

Forward Running – Where Friendly Faces and Pizza-Fueled Runs Collide

This week, I joined Forward Running, a club that’s been gaining traction for its inclusive energy and lovely hosts. Co-founded by Sophia (@sooophia.s) and Elena (@elenasophiah), this club has already become a feel-good favorite in Berlin’s growing run scene. They just celebrated their first anniversary in June, and their secret sauce? A mix of community-building rituals, beginner-friendly runs, and delicious post-run plans.

Here’s what stood out when I joined their Run & Pizza special event at Slice Society mid-week:

1️⃣ Vibe & Community 🤝✨ 4.75/5

This is where Forward Running truly shines. The community vibe is open, warm, and genuinely inclusive. Many runners were first-timers, and the founders go out of their way to make everyone feel at ease.

One thoughtful tradition is the pre-run name circle: you say your name and try to remember the names of the runners to your left and right, a clever way to break the ice and create instant connections.

And the best part? You won’t leave without making a new friend, especially when the run is followed by a shared table of pizza, crepes, or coffee chats. During our pizza night, I met so many runners. Everyone was really open and kind. Even the most introvert runners where able to socialize with ease!

2️⃣ Route & Scenery 🏞️👀 4.5/5

The club switches things up between Sunday social runs, Quick and Dirty Wednesdays and themed and special events. For the Run & Pizza edition, we followed a flat city route along the Spree river with good pavement and safe streets with minimal traffic. It’s not a long or fast course, but it’s accessible, relaxed, and ideal for casual running. This is the kind of route you could repeat weekly and still enjoy, especially during sunset

3️⃣ Training & Structure 📈🏃‍♂️2.75/5

Forward Running isn’t about chasing PBs. It’s about getting people moving together. The run is intentionally kept at a slow, beginner-friendly pace, with no pressure to perform. There’s usually one pace group with two pacers at the front while the founders mingle within the group. There’s a guided and structured warm up but no formal cooldown, but it all flows so organically that you don’t miss it. (Make sure you always cool down, though)

This is a great space for new runners, people returning from injury, or anyone wanting to run for the joy of it.

4️⃣ Facilities & Perks 🎒🚿 4.75/5

Forward usually meet at cafés or restaurants, which means you have access to bathrooms and a safe place for bag drop. Post run, there is hydration provided at the venue either complimentary or for a charge. The overall setup feels comfortable, casual, and community-minded.

The real highlight? The post-run rewards: pizza, coffee, or crepes depending on the day. It’s not just about the run; it’s about staying after, sitting down, and getting to know the people you just shared miles with.

5️⃣ Uniqueness & Identity 🔥🎭 3/5

What makes Forward special is its strong sense of intentionality. It's not just another run club, it's a club with heart. Rituals like the name circle and post-run hangs give it structure and soul. They’ve already created a clear visual identity too, with branded t-shirts that help build that sense of belonging and team spirit. While there’s no chants (yet), the club’s identity is already clearly defined: inclusive, community-first, and rooted in shared moments.

Special themed events are sprinkled throughout the month, from crepe runs to collaborations with local spots, and help keep the energy fresh and fun.

Final Thoughts: Is Forward Running Worth Joining?

Absolutely. If you're looking for a welcoming, beginner-friendly, and socially driven run club, Forward Running should be on your radar. The energy is inclusive, the pace is relaxed, and the rituals, like the name circle, make it feel like more than just a run.

Whether you're new to Berlin, new to running, or just craving good company on your miles, this club offers connection, community, and carbs (yes, pizza counts 🍕). It’s not about speed, it’s about showing up, meeting people, and enjoying the process.

Final Score: ⭐️ 3.95/5