10 Things You Need to Know If You're New to BGR!

Black Girls RUN! is awesome, dynamic, major, fun, engaging, inspiring and all of the above! Maybe you just completed a race or were a spectator and a particular shirt caught your eye, or you were driving and saw a herd of women running in your community, and now you want to BE APART OF THE MOVEMENT! Join Black Girls RUN! We want to help you make your transition to this sisterhood on the pavement be smooth! Check out these 10 things you need to know before you get started! 

1. What is Black Girls RUN!?

Black Girls RUN! is a nationwide movement featuring local groups across the United States (74 groups and 120,000 members). We inspire ALL (no matter race, religion or background) women to walk, run, be active and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

2. But, why BLACK girls run?

You know we get this question ALL the time! Our group is open to all women, but the BLACK is intentional and deserves a special recognition because African-American women rank the highest in most, if not all health diseases and its time we change that!

3. How do I join Black Girls RUN!?

It's super easy to join Black Girls RUN! Almost too easy! Simply create an account on our website, www.blackgirlsrun.com, and find a group near you. Once you find a group run that works for your schedule, just show up at the designated location and time and let the ambassador and run coordinator know you're new! That's it! We make it super easy and FREE so that every woman can participate. 

4. How can I find  a group near me?

Create an account at blackgirlsrun.com and find a group near you. Join them on Facebook and check out their local runs. Each local group has a Facebook page outside of the website to let you engage with the members on a more intimate level. It is FREE to run with us, but make sure you sign up on the website first and sign the waiver before joining us for a group run!

5. Can I walk?

Of course, walkers are encouraged to attend any run open to all levels! Make sure you reach out to the local Ambassadors and run coordinators so we can expect to see you at a run and welcome you with open arms!

6. What should I wear to a run?

Great shoes are key! We all know that we love cute sneakers, but safety is priority. So, go get fitted a local running store to find the right pair of walking/running shoes for you. And, do not forget great socks! You can find wide variety of running shoes online at great prices at Road Runner Sports. You can expect to pay anywhere from $75 - $150 for a great pair of running shoes. Believe us, it's worth the investment. 

7. What is the history behind Black Girls RUN!?

Toni Carey and Ashley Hicks are the organization's co-founders. They started Black Girls RUN! as an online blog in 2009 to journal their experiences of running in races, but then this turned into the launch of local run groups across the country. They both love running, obviously, but have really dedicated their lives to ensuring that our community has access and education to change the health of our community! 

8. I'm new to running! Do you have a special training plan for newbies?

The WALKB4URUN E-book is perfect if you are new to running. Getting started can feel overwhelming to a beginner runner. So if you are feeling intimidated or nervous about getting started, don’t worry, that’s completely normal! It’s typically, $5.95. Use the code newrunner to get the book for FREE. 

9. I should probably get in shape before I come out to run, right?

We hear this one a lot too. We want you as your are, right here, right now. It super normal to feel uneasy about attending your first group run. (I remember mine) But, don't like it intimidate you. Our ladies comes in all shapes, sizes and abilities! There's no need to train or "practice" before you attend a group run. 

10. So, how can I represent and help the movement grow?

Our BGR! gear is one of the many way you can represent Black Girls RUN! on and off the pavement. It's also a great way to share the movement with other women in your community or at road races! Word of mouth has been critical the organization's growth! 

So, now that we have given you the basics of Black Girls RUN!, we are so ready for you to join us on the pavement!

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