The American College of Sports Medicine ranks Austin number 10 on its list of the fittest regions in the nation. This interest in fitness coupled with the city's picturesque beauty and warm climate has led to a proliferation of running clubs in Austin, Texas.

Like cycling clubs, these running meetups bring together groups of people who are devoted to exercise and enjoy the camaraderie of working out together.

Running clubs are often free of charge, encouraging people in the area to engage in the sport regardless of their financial ability. Unlike cycling clubs, participating in a running group does not require the purchase of any expensive equipment. Comfortable shoes and clothing are all that's needed to engage in this form of exercise.

Usually people in the area meet at parks with running trails, where they strive together to improve their health. Even in the heat of summer, Austinites can be found working up a sweat on the running trails.

Running clubs in Austin, Texas function like other social meetups in that they bring together people from all walks of life, thus providing a great way to form diverse friendships. As participants run, they can enjoy as much conversation as their endurance allows.

Of course, these running groups provide more than a social opportunity. Participants in running clubs are actively working to improve their health through cardiovascular exercise. As our nation's obesity rates continue to skyrocket, health-conscious individuals look for ways, such as running, to maintain physical fitness.

Sometimes, entire families participate in running clubs, enjoying family bonding while engaging in this free and fun form of recreation. Running is a sport without age limits as proven by Fauja Singh, who at age 100, is the world's oldest marathon runner.

So, whether Austin residents want to engage in a rigorous marathon-training schedule or they prefer to simply engage in a bit of casual recreation, there's a running club for everyone. To get started, just find a running club and head to one of the area parks to enjoy this invigorating form of group exercise today.