Finding Your Stride: The Rise of LGBTQ+ Running Clubs in Montreal and Beyond

Running. For many, it's a solitary pursuit, a personal challenge against the pavement and the clock.

But what if running could be more than just a workout? What if it could be a community, a safe space, a celebration of identity? Across Montreal and the globe, LGBTQ+ running clubs are proving that it can be all of these things and more.

More Than Just a Run: The Power of Community

Running is often touted as a sport with no barriers, a place where anyone can belong.

But for many in the LGBTQ+ community, traditional sports spaces haven't always felt welcoming. This is where LGBTQ+ running clubs step in, offering a haven of inclusivity and acceptance.

Think about it: how many times have you felt truly seen and understood while pushing your physical limits?

These clubs create that environment, fostering connections that extend far beyond the finish line. They're not just about logging miles; they're about building relationships, finding support, and celebrating shared experiences.

From Lavender U Joggers to OUTrun: A History of Inclusivity

The concept isn't new.

The International Front Runners, one of the earliest organized LGBTQ+ running groups, emerged in the 1970s. The story goes that in San Francisco, a group began meeting in Golden Gate Park for weekly runs, eventually becoming known as the Lavender U Joggers. From the outset, inclusivity was paramount.

At a time when the gay community was often forced underground, the club provided a safe space for people to connect and be themselves.

These early pioneers paved the way for the vibrant network of LGBTQ+ running clubs that exists today. St. Mike Schwarz, who ran with the Front Runners club in Toronto, recalls the importance of these spaces for building community and finding solidarity.

OUTrun Montreal: A Local Success Story

In Montreal, OUTrun is a prime example of this thriving community.

Founded with the goal of connecting queer and trans folks through running, OUTrun offers a welcoming environment for all levels of runners. They meet every Saturday, combining a run with a post-workout hang at a local cafe.

Katy Dmowski and Evelyn Poole, co-leads of OUTrun, even met and fell in love through the club.

"OUTrun facilitated our relationship because we saw each other every week after that," says Dmowski. "Running is something that consistently brings us together and something that we can share with our larger group of friends."

Why Join an LGBTQ+ Running Club?

What are the specific draws of these groups?

Why are they flourishing now more than ever?

• A Sense of Belonging: These clubs offer a safe and supportive environment where LGBTQ+ individuals can be themselves without fear of judgment.
• Community Building: Running together fosters camaraderie and creates opportunities to connect with like-minded people.
• Improved Mental and Physical Health: Exercise is a well-known stress reliever and mood booster.

  Combined with the support of a community, the benefits are amplified.

• Visibility and Representation: LGBTQ+ running clubs help increase visibility and representation of the community in the broader sports world.
• Breaking Down Barriers: These clubs challenge traditional gender norms in sports and create opportunities for non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals to participate.

Beyond the Binary: Inclusivity in Action

The importance of these inclusive spaces is underscored by statistics.

In Canada, only a small percentage of non-binary youth participate in sports. Furthermore, many race registration platforms have historically lacked options for individuals who identify outside the binary.

But change is happening. Major marathons are beginning to allow participants to register as non-binary, and LGBTQ+ running clubs are actively working to create more inclusive environments.

Laurie, a member of OUTrun, appreciates the club's openness to feedback and its efforts to improve accessibility for all members.

Practical Steps Towards Inclusivity:

• Pronoun Sharing: Normalizing the practice of sharing pronouns before each run helps prevent misgendering and ensures that everyone feels seen and respected.
• Community Building Activities: Organized social events and post-run gatherings foster connections and create a sense of belonging.
• Accessibility Considerations: Addressing physical accessibility of routes and promoting events to other LGBTQ+ organizations ensures that the club is welcoming to all.

Running Towards a Brighter Future

The rise of LGBTQ+ running clubs is a testament to the power of community and the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for all.

These clubs are not just about running; they're about building relationships, fostering acceptance, and celebrating the diversity of the human experience.

Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a complete beginner, there's a place for you in the LGBTQ+ running community.

So, lace up your shoes, find a local club, and experience the joy of running with a supportive and welcoming group. Who knows, you might just find your stride - and a whole new community - along the way.

Ready to find a club near you? Check out our working map of LGBTQ2+ friendly run clubs and crews and let's keep it growing together!