Istanbul's Best Running Clubs

Istanbul Marathon
Istanbul Marathon | © Fuzzy Gerdes/Flickr
Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Finding the best places for a great jog in Istanbul can be a little tricky because of the lack of large parks and the chaotic grind of traffic. Aware of this particular problem, a few very good running clubs established themselves quickly to bring running enthusiasts together for special routes that take participants through some of the city’s most beautiful (and runner-friendly) areas. Check out Istanbul’s best running groups.

Istanbul Koşu Kuvvetleri

Established by young and active people who don’t let the city’s urbanization get in the way of their love of sports, Istanbul Koşu Kuvvetleri (which means the Running Forces of Istanbul) is one of the city’s best running clubs. You’ll find people from all kinds of professions coming to the club’s weekly Tuesday and Thursday running events, which see every member as a part of a team. Join the club to meet new people and to run through some of Istanbul’s most scenic routes.

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Nike Run Club

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Bu Kızlar Nereye Koşuyor

Translating to ‘Where Are These Girls Running To?’, this particular running club is made up of mostly women who like to get together for a nice relaxing run. A little bit more amateur and therefore laid-back than the other more serious running clubs, BKNK meets often for runs around the city as well as athletic charity events. Make sure to follow their Facebook for the latest events. You’ll soon find out that one of the main aims of this group is to turn exercise from something arduous into something social and very enjoyable.

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Team Istrunbul

Formed by a group of recreational runners, Team Istrunbul aims to bring athletically impassioned people together from the very advanced to very beginner. Meeting three to four mornings every week, Istrunbul is definitely one of the most intense running clubs on this list. With various pace groups, people of various levels are able to participate without feeling like they’re in the wrong place. You’ll also be happy to know that a post-workout breakfast is also included, so that you have something to look forward to while you’re sweating off those calories.

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