Girl&Sole: Sugar, Spice, and Sunday Long Runs in Moscow

In the vast metropolis of Moscow, a running club was founded on August 1, 2012, with a specific and heartfelt mission: to create a dedicated space for women to run together. Girl&Sole Running Club was established for girls who love the sport, or who simply want to love it one day. From its inception, the club has been a haven of good company and mutual respect, growing into a beloved and enduring part of the city's running culture.

The philosophy of Girl&Sole is perfectly captured by their tagline, "Sugar and spice and all things nice." It reflects their mission to create a positive and empowering atmosphere. The founders envisioned a club where the focus was not on competition, but on building a community where women of all ages and training levels could feel comfortable and supported. It’s a space dedicated to fostering a healthy relationship with running, grounded in respect for oneself and for fellow runners.

The community of Girl&Sole is a testament to their welcoming ethos. By creating a space specifically for women, they have fostered deep connections and a strong sense of camaraderie. The club provides a vital network of support, encouraging members to pursue their running goals in a friendly and non-judgmental environment, proving that the bonds forged over shared miles are some of the strongest.

The culture of Girl&Sole is built around their consistent and beloved weekly ritual. The main activity is a long-distance run held every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. This session serves as the anchor of their community, offering a regular opportunity for members to connect and build their endurance together. In a thoughtful and practical touch that sets them apart, the club ensures that amenities such as lockers, water, and a changing area are available, removing common barriers and making the experience as convenient and comfortable as possible for everyone.

Girl&Sole Running Club extends a warm and open invitation to all women in Moscow, regardless of their age or level of training. Whether you are an experienced marathoner or taking your very first strides, they are happy to see you. For anyone looking for a supportive, women-only community to share long runs with, they are encouraged to connect with the club via its official social media channels for the latest information.

As one of the city's pioneering women-only groups, Girl&Sole is a key part of Moscow's diverse and growing running scene. The Russian capital is home to a multitude of other running crews and traditional athletics clubs, including other groups that also focus on creating inclusive and social running experiences. Together, these communities form a vibrant and supportive network for all of the city's athletes.

Moscow, the sprawling and historic capital of Russia, offers a unique and monumental backdrop for a run. The city is a place of grand avenues, iconic architecture, such as the Kremlin and Saint Basil's Cathedral, and vast, beautiful green spaces. Running through this megacity provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience its immense scale and rich history, all while navigating the challenges and rewards of its distinct seasons.

The Sunday long runs of Girl&Sole likely explore some of Moscow's most iconic running routes. A premier destination is the famous Gorky Park, which offers miles of beautiful paths and connects to the scenic embankments that run along the Moskva River. These routes provide stunning views of the city's famous landmarks. Another excellent location for running is the large park surrounding the VDNKh Exhibition Center, featuring grand pavilions and fountains.

The running calendar in Moscow is highlighted by several major events that attract a huge international field of participants. The premier race is the Moscow Marathon, which takes place in the autumn and is known for its course that passes by more than 30 world-famous landmarks. The city also hosts the Moscow Half Marathon in the spring, another massive event that brings incredible energy to the city's streets and serves as a major goal for thousands of local runners.