Why Your Church Should Start an Upward Running Program
No Gym? No Problem. Just One Passionate Leader Can Get It Going!
Written by Claire Boyce | Upward Running
If you’re looking for a way to bring your church community together, encourage health and wellness, and deepen spiritual connection—all without needing a building, a field, or fancy equipment—then it might be time to start an Upward Running program at your church.
We know what you’re thinking: “Running? At our church? Where?” But here’s the beauty of it—you don’t need a gym or a field. You just need open space, a sidewalk, or a path, and one passionate person willing to say, “Let’s go.”
Here’s why this could be the perfect next step for your church:
1. All It Takes Is One Passionate Leader
You don’t need a full fitness staff or a committee—just someone who loves people and is ready to walk (or run) alongside them. Whether they’re an experienced marathoner or someone who’s found joy in walking their neighborhood loop, one leader can set the tone and start something meaningful. And the best part? You don’t need a long list of volunteers. With a simple structure and easy-to-follow plans, Upward Running is designed to be sustainable and impactful without overwhelming your team.
2. It's the Most Accessible Sport to Start
No hoops to hang. No fields to mow. No nets to set up. Running (or walking) is about as easy and low-maintenance as it gets. Everyone shows up in comfortable clothes and gets moving. That’s it. That simplicity makes it the easiest sport to launch at your church.
All you really need is a screen to watch the devotions—and if your leader chooses, the 5K Challenge book to follow along and fill out. You don’t need a big building or a classroom. You can even meet in someone’s home if that works best for your group. The flexibility makes this an easy, meaningful way to get started with very little setup.
3. Turn Idle Time Into Active Time for Parents
Picture this: The kids are at Upward Basketball or Soccer practice, and parents are just waiting around. Why not turn that downtime into “me time” for them? Upward Running offers adults a chance to build fitness, community, and faith right there while their kids practice. It’s a win-win. The kids see their parents getting healthy. The parents stop saying, “I wish I had time.” Everybody wins.
4. It Builds True Community
Running is about more than fitness. It’s about consistency, encouragement, showing up for one another, and growing stronger together. Upward Running turns solo workouts into shared experience. We don’t run alone—we run together, and we grow in faith, friendship, and grit.
5. It’s for Anyone 18+ — Which Means Everyone Gets Involved
So many ministries are age-specific, but this is one where young adults, parents, grandparents, and empty nesters can all participate side by side. Your church can engage people in every stage of life—runners, walkers, the fast, the steady, the hesitant, the bold. Everyone has a place on the path.
6. Walkers Are 100% Welcome
This isn’t just for the fast or the fit—it’s for anyone ready to move. Every one of our training plans can be walked, making Upward Running the perfect entry point for beginners, longtime walkers, or those returning to fitness. Whether you’re walking solo laps or joining a group stroll, you’re part of the team. No pace is too slow when you’re moving with purpose.
Bottom Line: Upward Running is More Than Miles
Starting an Upward Running program at your church is about more than fitness. It’s about showing up. Growing together. Encouraging one another. And building a church community that doesn’t just meet on Sundays—but moves together, supports one another, and grows in body and spirit.
Ready to get started? Lace up. We’ll help you take the first step.
Learn more about Upward Running or bring this to your church –www.Upward.org/RunCoach
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