Original Propaganda Athletic Club A Philadelphia Crew Where All Runners Find Respect

Founded in January 2012, Original Propaganda Athletic Club has established a unique presence in Philadelphia’s running community. Created with the explicit goal of providing a level playing field for athletes of all abilities, this group welcomes runners ranging from those finishing a Couch-to-5K program to Boston Marathon qualifiers. With about 45 members, Original Propaganda invites all runners to join their events, reflecting a culture that values both competition and inclusion.

The club’s core principle is to respect every runner’s journey equally. Their mission goes beyond just organizing runs; they seek to foster an energetic environment that encourages ongoing involvement in the sport. This includes helping newcomers get started in running, maintaining organized competition for post-collegiate and professional athletes, and strengthening their influence on Philadelphia’s athletic and social scene. While running is their primary focus, they also incorporate fashion, entertainment, and social activism into their broader cultural identity.

Where Every Step Holds Meaning

The community spirit at Original Propaganda is rooted in mutual support and shared goals. The team fosters an environment where athletes can improve their skills without judgment, whether they are ultramarathoners or just starting. This acceptance fosters a sense of family, encouraging members to grow and stay involved in the sport. Original Propaganda promotes a lively, active culture where identity is built through participation rather than just performance, allowing all runners to succeed.

The crew meets every Saturday, between 8:45 and 9 a.m., with locations rotating between Eakins Oval and Washington Square. Their runs include options such as a 1.5-mile walk, a 5-kilometer run, and longer runs starting at 5 miles, catering to all paces and preferences. This flexibility makes it easy for runners of various experience levels to participate comfortably. The schedule runs year-round, only pausing for race weekends and a holiday break from mid-December to mid-January. Details about meetups are regularly posted on their Instagram account.

Open Doors For Every Philadelphia Runner

Original Propaganda welcomes all interested runners in Philadelphia to join their gatherings regardless of ability or background, fostering an inclusive environment where every event is open to newcomers and visitors despite the official roster numbering around 45 people. Prospective participants can easily connect with the group’s lively culture by checking the latest run locations and times on the crew’s social media channels. While there is an option for an annual membership—which requires dues to be paid either monthly or as a single yearly payment and includes two race kits plus numerous amenities—it is important to note that all of the runs and most of the events are completely free to attend.

Embedded within Philadelphia’s longstanding tradition of running, Original Propaganda contributes a fresh, inclusive voice. The city, known for its passionate sports culture and historic significance, offers a fertile environment for crews like this to thrive. Philadelphia’s running community benefits from a variety of clubs and events, with Original Propaganda adding a unique blend of competitive spirit and welcoming inclusivity to the local scene.

The City As A Runner’s Playground

Philadelphia’s urban landscape blends rich history with natural beauty, creating inspiring routes for runners. The Schuylkill River Trail offers scenic, continuous paths along the water, while Fairmount Park provides spacious green areas for varied training. Iconic landmarks like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous steps give runners a symbolic challenge and a sense of achievement. This diverse environment enhances the appeal of running in the city for members of Original Propaganda and beyond.

The city hosts notable running events that energize its athletic community. The Philadelphia Marathon weekend in the fall draws thousands of participants from around the world, while the Blue Cross Broad Street Run is the largest 10-mile race in the United States, winding through the city’s heart. These events create key moments for groups like Original Propaganda to unite and showcase their talent, dedication, and camaraderie within Philadelphia’s vibrant running scene.

Original Propaganda Athletic Club is a medium-sized group of about 45 dedicated runners who infuse Philadelphia’s running culture with their values and energy. By fostering an environment where every effort is celebrated equally, they have established a home for a diverse community motivated by shared passion and respect. Their weekly gatherings and ongoing mission continue to inspire runners across the city to lace up, come together, and move forward.