Gegen Running Embraces Friendship and Movement in Berlin

Gegen Running launched in June 2024 in Berlin as a natural extension of the Gegenpresse community, a group initially united by a shared passion for football and creativity. Founded by a group of friends who had gathered for years around weekly football games and their own magazine, Gegen Running now embraces running and lifestyle activities. The crew remains rooted in the spirit of camaraderie and creativity, thriving at their headquarters on Tempelhofer Feld, where open spaces and urban energy blend seamlessly. The shift from a football community to a multifaceted lifestyle group demonstrates their dedication to building connections beyond a single sport.

Rooted in Shared Passions and Friendly Connections

At the core of Gegen Running is a philosophy of openness and friendship. Many team members, who have been close since the Gegenpresse days, value the chance to meet regularly for both sports and social activities. Their motto could be seen as embracing movement in all its forms—whether kicking a ball or running through Berlin’s streets—while celebrating a creative and supportive community. Above all, Gegen Running emphasizes that they are not strangers to each other, fostering an environment where friendship is just as important as fitness.

This group of passionate runners and creatives is open to everyone, welcoming new members with a pace suitable for easy to medium runs. The vibe is informal and inclusive, reflecting the diverse interests and backgrounds of its members. Their connection goes beyond training, as they regularly enjoy social moments together, strengthening their community bond. The club’s inclusive nature and focus on friendship create a warm atmosphere that encourages participation at any level or background.

Open Doors for Runners and Creatives

Gegen Running’s activities center around the iconic Tempelhofer Feld, a large urban park with expansive open spaces perfect for running and gatherings. While specific run details vary, their sessions typically involve distances of easy to moderate length at a relaxed pace, ideal for social running and fitness. These runs are often followed by drinks and conversations, continuing the crew’s tradition of shared experiences. The focus is on enjoyment and connection rather than competition, making each run an opportunity to strengthen community bonds.

Joining Gegen Running is straightforward and welcoming, with no membership fees and a friendly attitude toward newcomers. The crew remains small, helping maintain its close-knit, supportive atmosphere. Anyone interested in combining running with a creative, social community in Berlin will feel at home here. The crew’s open membership policy reflects its inclusive values and the founders’ desire to keep the community accessible to everyone.

Gegen Running enriches Berlin’s vibrant urban running scene by combining sport, creativity, and social interaction. Their presence at Tempelhofer Feld connects them to one of the city’s most lively outdoor spaces, a common ground for various running groups and fitness communities. Their blend of running and lifestyle activities enhances Berlin’s diverse athletic culture, offering a unique voice that values friendship and artistic expression as much as physical endurance.

Tempelhofer Feld as a Living Playground

The crew’s favorite spot, Tempelhofer Feld, is a former airport now turned public park, famous for its wide runways and green areas. It offers an inspiring setting for runs, allowing members to experience Berlin’s city vibe alongside natural beauty. The space supports a range of activities, from running and cycling to casual social gatherings, making it an ideal hub for a community that combines fitness and creativity.

Typical runs by Gegen Running wind through open fields and along the edges of the park, often following paths that connect to surrounding neighborhoods. These routes provide a mix of natural scenery and urban life, offering an engaging and refreshing running experience. Medium distances and a leisurely pace encourage runners to enjoy the rhythm of the city and each other’s company without pressure.

While mainly focused on weekly runs and social events, Gegen Running also engages with Berlin’s broader running scene and occasional local gatherings. Their roots in the football community and creative circles shape a distinctive approach to these activities, emphasizing fun and camaraderie over competition. As the group grows, their participation in city-wide running events is likely to increase, further linking their story to Berlin’s vibrant sports culture.