Running Excels: South Side Chicago’s Premier Specialty Running Store & Community Hub

Running Excels is not just any specialty running store; it’s a vibrant community hub where friends and family can come together over a shared passion for fitness, wellness, and active living. Located in South Side Chicago, this woman-owned store offers a welcoming environment that goes beyond retail by fostering camaraderie and motivation among runners and walkers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your fitness journey or a seasoned runner chasing new goals, rallying at Running Excels with your friends means more than just shopping for gear—it’s about connecting through group runs, expert advice, and supportive events that encourage wellness in a friendly and inclusive space. The store’s strong reputation for outstanding personal service and community focus creates an uplifting atmosphere where everyone feels inspired and empowered. For groups seeking a fun and healthy meet-up spot, Running Excels invites you to share the joy of movement together, making it an ideal place for memorable, active gatherings.

Running Excels offers a range of dynamic activities tailored to build community and promote fitness among friends and family. A standout feature is their well-organized group runs held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, where runners and walkers meet at the store and venture out together. These group sessions cater to all fitness levels, ensuring that everyone—from novices to marathon veterans—can participate and support each other. Additionally, they host Wednesday workouts at Brother Rice’s running track, perfect for those looking to sharpen their running skills or simply enjoy a spirited workout with peers. For younger participants, the Kids Running Club teaches children the basics of running, emphasizing fun, fitness, and skill development. These activities exemplify Running Excels’s commitment to creating a supportive and cohesive community where physical activity becomes a social event. The schedule facilitates consistent group meetups, making it straightforward for friends to plan and enjoy shared fitness goals.

Beyond its excellent programming, Running Excels boasts a uniquely personal shopping experience that enhances group visits. Each customer receives individualized attention to find the perfect running or walking shoes and apparel suited to their specific needs and gait, thanks to staff who are themselves passionate and experienced runners. This expert guidance ensures that every group member leaves with gear that supports their health and performance, reducing injury risk and increasing comfort. The store’s rich selection of high-quality athletic brands, including exclusive Lululemon apparel, appeals to varied tastes and preferences within any group, making shopping enjoyable and efficient. The welcoming atmosphere cultivates a sense of belonging and encouragement, encouraging friends and family not only to shop but also to share stories and tips. Moreover, special events like the annual festive 5K underline the store’s role as a community heart, perfect for hosting collective celebrations or milestone meets. The combination of expert service, quality products, and a community-centered environment makes Running Excels a standout destination for active groups.

The community ethos at Running Excels is deeply embedded in its origins and ongoing operations. Founded by Beverly Lynch, a passionate runner who completed numerous marathons including Boston, the store reflects a deep respect for the running journey of every individual. This perspective fosters an environment where running is not merely an individual sport but a shared experience that brings people together. Running Excels leverages this philosophy through consistent group events, running clubs for all ages, and approachable staff who treat every customer like family. The store regularly invites runners and walkers to join their group runs and workshops, turning routine workouts into social and supportive activities. Engagement extends beyond the store as participants often share progress, challenges, and triumphs, creating lasting friendships. This nurturing approach transforms Running Excels into more than a commercial space—it becomes a catalyst for community wellness and connection, making it an ideal venue for group meetups that value both health and interaction.

Shopping at Running Excels doubles as an educational and personalized experience, perfect for group visits. The staff’s expert knowledge allows them to assess each person’s gait and running habits meticulously to recommend the right footwear and apparel, ensuring optimal comfort and performance. Such detailed, one-on-one attention is rare in typical stores and creates a shared learning experience when friends shop together. Groups can explore various brands and styles, including cutting-edge technical gear designed to enhance running efficiency and enjoyment. The atmosphere encourages questions and conversation, allowing visitors to exchange recommendations and advice in real time. Furthermore, the store’s layout supports easy browsing and social interaction, making shopping feel relaxed and collaborative rather than rushed or transactional. For friends and families dedicated to fitness, this thorough and caring approach cements Running Excels as a top place to gather, shop, and prepare for their next active adventure together.

Running Excels caters to runners and walkers of all experience levels, creating an inclusive environment ideal for group meetups that may include diverse skill sets. Beginners benefit from the staff’s patient guidance and the welcoming group events that encourage participation without intimidation. Their focus on proper shoe fitting and injury prevention is especially valuable for those new to running or recovering from setbacks. Meanwhile, seasoned athletes find resources such as track workouts, access to high-performance gear, and events like community runs that challenge and motivate. The wide variety of activities ensures that all group members can find something suited to their fitness level and goals, fostering mutual encouragement. This blend of support for novices and pros alike makes Running Excels a versatile gathering spot where mixed-ability groups can thrive together, learn from each other, and celebrate progress in a positive setting.

Situated at 10328 S Western Ave in Chicago’s South Side, Running Excels benefits from being in a well-connected and welcoming neighborhood. Its proximity to multiple Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs makes it accessible for a broad regional clientele. The store’s hours—from early morning to evening on weekdays, extended hours on Saturdays, and afternoon hours on Sundays—offer flexibility for groups planning visits around work or family commitments. Ample parking nearby and a layout conducive to socializing ease the logistics of meetups. Its location in a community-oriented area aligns with the store’s emphasis on bringing people together, creating a natural gathering point for active friends and relatives. The South Side’s rich culture and enthusiasm for health and fitness further enhance the meetup experience, offering nearby running trails and parks to continue group activities outdoors after store visits.

Hosting a meetup or celebration at Running Excels adds a unique, inspiring dimension to any group event centered on health and activity. The store’s ability to organize group runs and events like the festive 5K establishes a fun and goal-oriented framework for celebratory gatherings. Groups can leverage Running Excels’s expertise to plan tailored running workshops, shoe fittings, or apparel showcases as part of their meetup itinerary, offering both social and educational value. The positive, energetic environment and support from seasoned runners ensure group events are motivating and memorable. Sharing these experiences within a trusted community space makes milestones like birthdays, fitness achievements, or charity runs even more meaningful. Running Excels’s collaborative spirit and professional resources elevate group events from ordinary meetups to empowering fitness celebrations that strengthen friendships and commitment to active lifestyles.

Its welcoming environment, expert personalized service, and consistent group activities foster connection and motivation among runners and walkers of all levels. With strategic location and flexible hours, it offers convenient access for diverse groups. The store’s commitment to building a running community through outreach, coaching, and events makes it an ideal place to rally friends and family around a healthy and enjoyable shared passion. Hosting your next meetup at Running Excels promises not only top-quality gear and advice but also a supportive setting that inspires collective wellness and lasting memories.