As a new year begins, most small groups focus on spiritual, personal, and relational goals. But what if your group took on something that strengthened all three...together?
Written by Claire Boyce | Upward Running
The Upward Running 5K Challenge is more than just a training plan…it’s a shared experience that helps people grow together in faith, community, and perseverance. Whether your small group is made up of people who have never run before, brand-new walkers, or a mix of both, training together creates a new rhythm of connection, encouragement, and purpose.
Here are 5 reasons bringing Upward Running to your church…and guiding your small group through a 5K Challenge…could be one of the most meaningful decisions you make in 2026:
1. You’re Already Doing Life Together...Now Move Through It Together
Your small group already shares life’s ups and downs: prayer requests, celebrations, and weekly check-ins. But when you add a shared goal like completing a 5K, those connections deepen even further.
When you run or walk together, conversations happen naturally. You’ll find that some of the most honest, heartfelt talks come during a group run or walk…when the pressure’s off, the sun’s out, and everyone’s moving in the same direction. It’s fellowship in motion.
2. People Who Do Hard Things Together, Stay Together
There’s something powerful about struggling together. Whether it’s that tough midweek workout, a cold Saturday morning run, or a hill that feels impossible, those moments create shared stories that bond people for life.
When you push through something physically challenging as a team, it reflects what we’re all doing spiritually…learning endurance, leaning on God, and supporting each other through difficulty. Completing a 5K isn’t just a finish line; it’s a metaphor for faith and perseverance. And doing it with your small group turns that lesson into something unforgettable.
3. Built-In Accountability That Actually Works
We all know motivation fades, but community keeps us consistent. Having a small group training together gives everyone a reason to show up. You’re not just running for yourself, you’re showing up for your friends.
The Upward Running RunClub App makes that even easier, with built-in plans, daily encouragement, and devotionals that help you stay on track. You can share progress, celebrate milestones, and keep each other going when life gets busy.
Accountability becomes less about pressure and more about encouragement, because when someone else believes in you, it’s easier to believe in yourself.
4. A Faith-Fueled Journey That Strengthens the Soul
Every week of the Upward Running 5K Challenge includes devotionals that connect running to real-life faith lessons.
Imagine your small group not only running together but also reflecting on what God is teaching you through it. You’ll begin to see that running and walking are simply new ways to live out discipleship, one step, one prayer, one mile at a time.
It’s not just fitness; it’s formation.
5. It Meets Everyone Where They Are
Not everyone in your group will love running, and that’s perfectly okay. The 5K Challenge is designed for every level. Some may walk the whole thing, others may jog, and a few might start chasing personal bests. But everyone has a place.
That inclusivity is what makes it so powerful for small groups. You’ll have people cheering for each other, celebrating small victories, and realizing together that growth looks different for everyone, but progress is still progress.
How to Bring Upward Running to Your Church
Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to bring the Upward Running 5K Challenge to your small group:
- Schedule a Call. Connect with our team to learn how the 5K Challenge works.
- Get the Details. We’ll equip you with everything, training plans, devotionals, and how to make running (or walking!) a meaningful part of your small group rhythm.
- Start Moving Together. Once your group is set up, you’ll train side by side, growing in faith, consistency, and connection each week.
Bring Upward Running to your small group and watch what happens when community starts moving together.
Because people who run together, grow together…and we’re more than miles.
Learn more about Upward Running or bring this to your church –www.Upward.org/RunCoach
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