Retiro Running

Madrid, Spain

Crew at a Glance

Retiro Running is an outstanding and truly international running group that has taken the Madrid, Spain, running scene by storm since it was founded in September 2021. Created by the visionary <a href="https://www.instagram.com/manvmuji" target="_blank" rel="noopener ugc">Manuel, the group's home and namesake is the city's iconic El Retiro Park. They are a vibrant lifestyle community built on camaraderie and connection, not competition. Very diverse, the group includes members from over 64 countries. They offer a two-week free trial for newcomers and hold a detailed, seasonal run schedule three times a week from the park's Puerta de la Independencia.

Retiro Running: A Global Family in the Heart of Madrid's Most Iconic Park

In the busy city of Madrid, a running group was started in September 2021 out of a personal need for a community about more than just chasing records. Retiro Running was created by Manuel, who had arrived in Spain from Venezuela looking for a new adventure. He discovered the joy of running and how it can bring people together, and he wanted to create a place where runners could gather to relieve stress and build meaningful friendships. This desire for camaraderie and a laid-back approach to running laid the groundwork for Retiro Running's unique and successful journey.

### Connection Over Competition

At the heart of Retiro Running's philosophy is the belief that running is a way to build relationships and embrace personal growth. As founder Manuel sums it up: "It's not about how fast you run; it's about who you're running with and the connections you make along the way." This mindset offers a refreshing break from strict, performance-focused clubs. Their name is a proud nod to their home, the beautiful **El Retiro Park**, which reflects their dedication to fostering unity and harmony in a stunning, natural setting.

The Retiro Running community is a true global family that celebrates diversity and cultural exchange. In a remarkable showcase of Madrid's international spirit, the group has members from over 64 countries, making it a lively microcosm of the world. The connections go beyond running, with the group organizing language exchange and cross-cultural friendship events called "Meet&Chill," which include activities like karaoke, bowling, and picnics.

### The Rhythms of Retiro: A Seasonal Schedule

Retiro Running’s culture revolves around a consistent and inclusive weekly routine that changes with the seasons. The group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays for evening runs (at 7:00-7:30 p.m. in cooler months and 8:00 p.m. in summer) and on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. for a regular 5K run. The starting point for every run is the iconic **Puerta de la Independencia**, one of the entrances to Retiro Park. There's no pressure to run at a certain pace; informal groups naturally form, with speeds ranging from a brisk 4:50 to a relaxed 6:30 minutes per kilometer. Distances on weekdays vary seasonally from 5K to 12K. They even host adventurous "meteocrazy" events, challenging runners in bad weather conditions.

### How to Join the Community

Retiro Running offers a friendly, organized way to become part of their community. New members can try it out free for two weeks by registering on their website and then signing up for events through Meetup or Netsport apps. This gives everyone a chance to experience the community firsthand. After the trial, members can choose from different plans and gain access to the group's active WhatsApp and Strava groups. The process is designed to keep a safe and connected environment for their growing family of over 320 members.

### The Madrid Running Scene

Retiro Running shines as a hub of community and fun in a lively city where the spirit of running echoes through the streets. They are a key part of Madrid's vibrant running culture, which also includes other groups like the friendly and supportive Lactic Acid Junkies Running Crew. This diverse scene ensures there is a welcoming space for every type of runner in the Spanish capital.

Madrid is a city full of diversity, blending cultures, traditions, and modern life. The expansive **El Retiro Park**, often called the "lungs of Madrid," is a central oasis where runners can escape the city noise. Beyond the park, grand boulevards like the **Paseo del Prado** display the city's artistic beauty. The main racing event is the **Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Running Series Madrid**, a huge festival featuring a marathon and half-marathon, taking runners through the city's historic and cultural highlights.