As March comes to a close, we wanted to round out International Women’s Month by spotlighting a movement happening here in Houston: women showing up for themselves through running. Across the city, women-led run clubs are creating spaces that go far beyond miles and paces. They’re building community, confidence, and connection.
The Brown Girls’ Run Club
For Hera Rehman, the creation of The Brown Girls’ Run Club came from a personal place and a gap she knew needed to be filled. “I’ve always loved running and the community aspect of run clubs, but I didn’t really see a space that felt relatable to me,” she shared. “I’m South Asian, and I also don’t fit the ‘typical runner’ look, which made it harder to feel like I fully belonged in some spaces.”
Her journey, which included an 80-pound weight loss during COVID, transformed running into something much more than exercise. “It became a form of therapy and something I truly enjoyed,” she said. “I started the club because I wanted to create a space where others could experience that same feeling, regardless of their background or fitness level.”
Since then, the club has grown into a welcoming and diverse community, primarily made up of women in their 20s to 40s, while still offering both co-ed and women-specific events. What makes this group stand out is how it extends beyond running. “We host socials and different activities like Pilates, yoga, pickleball, group lunches and dinners, vision board nights, and other fun events,” Hera explained. “It’s all about creating opportunities for people to make genuine friendships while staying active.”
For women feeling hesitant about joining, her advice is simple but powerful: “The hardest part is just showing up… You don’t have to be fast, experienced, or even a ‘runner’ to join—walking is just as encouraged. Just come as you are.”
The Runners Chat
At The Runners Chat, the mission is clear: every pace has a place.
Founded on the idea that community is just as important as the miles themselves, the group has quickly grown into a supportive space for beginners, back-of-the-pack runners, and women balancing busy lives. “We wanted a safe and welcoming space for beginners, back-of-the-pack runners, and moms who want to move without the weight of expectation,” Jasmine Oguntuga explained.
The foundation of the group comes from a meaningful moment during their founder Jenn’s first half-marathon training cycle. “She realized that the miles are only half the battle—the rest is fueled by community,” Jasmine said.
Since then, the club has leaned fully into that philosophy. “We’ve traded ‘pressure’ for ‘presence,’” Jasmine added. “Whether you’re hitting a PR or just showing up for your mental health, you belong here.” The culture is unapologetically women-powered. “Showing up matters more than your pace,” she said. “There’s no pressure to be fast… just encouragement to keep going.”
For those unsure about joining, Jasmine encourages exploration and patience. “Try different groups and find what feels right for you… The running community is incredibly welcoming overall, but it’s still important to find a space that aligns with your needs.”
Her biggest reminder: “Everyone started somewhere. No one is judging you—we’re all just out there trying to become better, stronger versions of ourselves.”
Bows on the Run
What started as a few casual runs with friends has turned into one of the fastest-growing women’s run communities in the Houston area.
Stephanie Garcia founded Bows on the Run during a challenging season in her life while training for her first half marathon. “I found myself asking friends to join me… because it felt more safe and encouraging,” she said. “I realized there were no women run clubs in the Pasadena area, so I decided to make that change.”
What began with just three women has since exploded into a community of over 1,200 online members and events drawing more than 300 women at a time. “I didn’t expect much from it,” Stephanie admitted. “But week after week we would see new faces… and I soon began to be told how this run club had impacted and changed so many women for the better.”
At its core, Bows on the Run is about empowerment and sisterhood. “This group is where we build each other up to break barriers,” she said. “Whether it’s encouraging someone to try a new distance or simply giving them a space to breathe and be themselves.”
The club emphasizes growth in every sense, not just as runners, but as individuals navigating busy lives. “We understand life can be absolute chaos at times, but we give our women a chance to relax and have an outlet.”
Her message to newcomers is inviting: “Come with an open mind and open heart… We welcome women with arms wide open. No matter your experience, we never leave anyone behind.”
Other Women Clubs:
- Latinas Run Houston (different chapters all over the city)
- Black Girls Run
- Lover Girl Run Club
- Katy Runners
