Cani Sciolti: Rome's 'Unleashed Dogs' of Running
Back in 2016, four friends in Rome decided to break away from the usual running teams and start something different: Cani Sciolti. They were looking for a place to run on their own terms, without a bunch of rules. Before long, their idea caught on and Cani Sciolti became a go-to community for runners around the city.
The name Cani Sciolti, which means "Unleashed Dogs," really says it all: it’s about freedom, running your own way, and leaving the rulebook behind. Their main goal is to bring people in Rome together through running and to keep things open and welcoming for anyone who wants to join in.
These days, Cani Sciolti has grown to more than 50 members. They show up at all kinds of races, from neighborhood 5ks to marathons across Italy and beyond. What really stands out is how much the group supports each other and always makes newcomers feel at home.
While running is at the heart of Cani Sciolti, they also get behind other sports through the X-Solid Sport Lab. It’s a way for members and anyone in Rome to try out new activities and connect with an even bigger sports community.
Cani Sciolti calls Rome home and always keeps the door open for anyone who wants to join. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just lacing up for your first jog, you’ll find a warm welcome here. If you’re in the Eternal City and want to be part of a group of friends brought together by a love for running, just reach out to them on social media.
Running in Rome is something special, with world-famous landmarks all around you. Many locals love heading out along the Lungotevere, following the Tiber River right through the city. If you’re after a bit of greenery, Villa Doria Pamphili has endless trails to explore, and Villa Borghese is perfect for a scenic run in the center of it all. It’s not unusual to find yourself jogging past the Colosseum or the Circus Maximus, with history at every turn.
Rome's running calendar is highlighted by several world-class events that attract a massive international field. The premier race is the Run Rome The Marathon, held in the spring, which takes participants on an unparalleled journey through history, passing by countless iconic landmarks. Another hugely popular event is the Roma-Ostia Half Marathon, one of Europe's fastest and most famous half marathons, which takes runners from the city to the sea.
