Lactic Acid Junkies: Fostering a Healthy, Friendly Running Scene in Madrid
In the heart of Madrid, a group of runners has created a community that is as much about friendship and support as it is about running. The Lactic Acid Junkies running crew was established to foster a welcoming and friendly environment for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced athletes. They have successfully built a platform that not only encourages a healthy lifestyle but also creates a true sense of belonging through a shared passion for the sport.
The philosophy of Lactic Acid Junkies is clearly defined in their five-part mission statement. They aim to promote sport and healthy living for all, organize events to support this purpose, provide guidance for those new to the sport, foster a welcoming and friendly environment, and give back to their community. This comprehensive and thoughtful approach guides everything they do, creating a crew that is dedicated to the well-being and growth of its members and the city around them.
A Run for Everyone
The culture of Lactic Acid Junkies is built on a foundation of inclusivity and variety. To ensure everyone's comfort and participation, they hold weekly runs in multiple groups. A key feature is that each group has a dedicated running guide—a seasoned runner and long-time crew member—giving everyone the security of knowing there is someone to count on. Their schedule includes a mix of short and long-distance runs, as well as specialty or themed runs to keep things exciting. This commitment to community extends off the pavement, with a vibrant social calendar that includes brunches, "discussion drinkings," and movie nights.
Lactic Acid Junkies warmly welcomes new runners. Their nomadic approach of meeting in various places around Madrid, combined with their multi-group structure, is designed to create a schedule that their members feel comfortable with. For anyone in Madrid looking to be part of a friendly and supportive community, they are encouraged to connect via their official social media channels for the latest information on their runs and events.
The Madrid Running Scene
Lactic Acid Junkies are a key part of Madrid's growing and energetic running scene. The Spanish capital is home to a diverse array of other running crews and traditional clubs, each with its own unique identity. This rich ecosystem of groups, from performance-focused teams to other social collectives, has fostered a powerful and supportive network for the city's thousands of dedicated runners.
The city of Madrid is a beautiful and challenging place to run. As the capital of Spain, it sits at a high altitude of around 667 meters (2,188 feet), which adds a natural layer of difficulty to any workout. It is a city of elegant boulevards, magnificent architecture, and world-class parks, offering an inspiring and monumental backdrop for its passionate running community.
As a nomadic crew, Lactic Acid Junkies explore the best running routes Madrid has to offer. A central hub for the entire city's running community is the magnificent Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro), a vast green oasis with beautiful gardens and iconic monuments. Another favorite is the modern Madrid Río park, which offers miles of flat, scenic paths along the Manzanares River. For a wilder escape, the massive Casa de Campo provides a vast network of trails just west of the city center. The local running calendar is highlighted by the Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Running Series Madrid, which includes a marathon and a half-marathon, and the world-famous San Silvestre Vallecana, a massive 10 K race held on New Year's Eve that fills the streets with an incredible, festive energy.