In January this year, Almaty Marathon launched the Community Almaty Run project — free Sunday runs that end with lectures and networking. Why are such communities important, and where can you find them in other cities?
While we explore this, don’t forget to register for the Almaty Half Marathon and Almaty Marathon, organized by the "Courage to be First" corporate foundation — registration is open at almaty-marathon.kz.
Community Almaty Run,
@runalmatymarathon
Community Almaty Run participants are united not only by their love for running but also by their commitment to continuous learning. Every Sunday, runners go for a long-distance run and then enjoy hot tea and coffee with guest lecturers. They discuss topics such as year-round motivation, runner’s etiquette, eco-friendly lifestyles, time management for athletes, and more.
Community Almaty Run also organizes competitions where participants can win prizes from the Kazakh clothing brand AYMN. You can join the community through their Telegram channel.
Trigada,
@trigada.kz
Kazakhstani champions Saltanat Kazybaeva and Ayana Amanbayeva founded this women’s sports community, where every woman can find support and inspiration for new achievements. Trigada is not just about safe workouts led by professionals — it’s a space for personal growth in a comfortable and empowering female environment. Here, participants set high goals and achieve them together.
To join, participate in the community’s events. Trigada is not limited to just one city.
Tengri Runners – Die Hard Astana,
@tengri_runners
Since 2019, Die Hard Runners in Astana have been meeting on Sundays for long runs in the #DieHardRunning format. Divided into pace groups (from 4:00 to 6:30 min/km), participants run over 20 kilometers, improving their speed. These aren’t races but safe-paced runs, helping runners set personal records.
For extra motivation, the group has a website with rankings and challenges. Runners earn points for each Sunday run, which they can exchange for gear and race slots. Points are awarded based on pace, distance, and training frequency.
To join the Die Hard Runners, register on their website and show up for training.
Tashkent Runners,
@tashkentrunners
Tashkent Runners hold weekly open training sessions for Tashkent residents. Anyone can join, regardless of fitness level.
The community also runs the largest active running chat in Uzbekistan and announces major running events across Central Asia.
Shymkent Run Community,
@shymkentrunclub
The Shymkent running movement aims to unite the city’s athletes and create a platform for sharing experiences and preparing for races. Here, members improve their running technique, stay updated on regional events, and develop discipline through Sunday morning RunHard workouts.
In collaboration with Sport Nation, Shymkent Run Community rewards active participants of open training sessions with bonuses, which can be exchanged for brand products.
Training announcements are posted on Instagram — just come and join!
Azia-Beg,
@azia_beg
"Stop slacking and skipping long runs!" This active running community in Bishkek invites residents to join Sunday long-distance runs. It's a friendly club of enthusiasts who train in any weather.
Joining is simple — just show up for a training session! Announcements are posted on Instagram.
DemRun Kyrgyzstan,
@demrunkg
This dynamic and healthy running community encourages positive life changes. Running with DemRun means caring for your health, receiving support from like-minded people, and starting the workweek on a positive note.
Training details are shared on Instagram.
You never know who you might meet on a city run! Open communities help people discover running, find the right coach, and build a supportive network. Explore these great opportunities!
Run Rush,
@run__rush
The only running community in Ashgabat, Run Rush is actively developing running culture in Turkmenistan. It welcomes people of all levels — from beginners to experienced athletes.
Participants aim to inspire others to take up running and promote a stronger running culture in the country.
In 2024, three club members competed in their first international race, the Samarkand Marathon.