Down To Run: The Running Club Bringing Cape Town Students Together
Running? For fun? With other people? On purpose?
Before you reach for your excuses, hear us out. Down To Run, is the student-led Rondebosch running club that's bringing The ReZident community together, one Wednesday afternoon at a time.
As it turns out, getting your steps in can be just as much about making friends as breaking a sweat.
From ReZidents to Running Club Founders
It all started with two students, Mikey and Kira, who decided that student life could do with a little more movement and a lot more connection.
"We couldn't find a run club in the area that was student focused," explains Mikey. "We wanted a fun, vibey club, similar to the Sea Point run clubs but without having to drive and deal with traffic."
And so, Down To Run was born. A student-led running club built around fitness, friendship and having a good time.
What started as a student initiative has grown into a weekly get-together attracting anywhere from 30 to over 100 participants, depending on how busy everyone's schedules are.
And the best part? You don't have to live at The ReZident to join the fun. Down To Run welcomes students from across the community.
Fast? Slow? We’ve Got a Group for You
Let's clear something up. You don't need to be training for the Two Oceans Marathon to join Down To Run.
"There's a reason we've called it a SOCIAL run club," says Mikey. "No pressure for PBs, no leaderboard, perfect for anyone just wanting to start."
Every Wednesday at 17h00, the crew meets at The ReZident before kicking things off with a group warm-up.
From there, everyone splits into three groups.
The Fast Group is led by Mikey, for those who like to pick up the pace. Kira heads up the Medium-Paced Group, for runners who prefer something a little more relaxed.
Prefer to take it slow? Join the Walking Group which is perfect for anyone who'd rather enjoy the fresh air without worrying about their kilometre splits.
Each group follows a planned route through Rondebosch, with safety a top priority. Plus, visiting students can park their cars securely at The ReZident before heading out.
More Than Just a Running Club
Sure, running is great for your health. But Down To Run is about more than getting your heart rate up.
"The atmosphere of the club is all about making friends, avoiding the cliques, and welcoming everyone and anyone," says Mikey.
In fact, there's sometimes so much chatting before the run that they don't even start on time. But that's kind of the point. It's a chance to escape the study grind, meet students you might never otherwise cross paths with and enjoy a little fresh air after a day of lectures.
Whether you're new to Cape Town, looking to make friends or just keen to swap an afternoon of scrolling for something more social, there's a place for you.
Ready, Set, Let’s Go!
Ready to roll? There are no complicated sign-ups. Just show up, find your pace and get moving.
Where: The ReZident, Rondebosch
When: Every Wednesday at 17h00
Who: All students, including friends who don't live at The ReZident
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water and good vibes
At The ReZident, student living is about more than having a place to stay. It's about finding your people, trying new things and having fun.
See you on Wednesday!
