In Tokyo, runners meet up before a run for a reason that has nothing to do with the run. They sit down, someone pours coffee, someone opens a beer, and they talk about a story they’ve all read. Then they go run together. Kiyo Fujishiro has been doing this for years with Like the Wind Japan, and in issue 49 he wrote about why it works. We kept thinking about it. So here’s the short version: you don’t need us to start one of these. You just need a story and a few people who’ll show up.
What a Reading Club actually is:
There’s no format to get right. You pick a piece from Like the Wind, you get a few people together, you read it, you talk about it, you go for a run. After, you sit down with a drink and keep talking. That’s the whole thing. Some people read the story as hopeful. Someone else reads the same one as sad. Kiyo says that’s the point, the story is doing its job when it scatters in different directions.
How to start yours:
You need a story, a place, and a time. A café works. A running shop works. Someone’s kitchen table works. Pick a piece everyone can get hold of, tell people when and where, and run from there afterwards. Keep it small to start. The first one doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to happen.
What we’ll send you:
As a host, you’ll receive an email with event hosting resources, link to the flipbook for reading material, and a referral link, where you can provide discounted subscriptions to your guests.
As a guest, you’ll receive an email with club details, meeting recaps, and some special reading club-specific offerings, too!
Sign up now:
Click the button below, enter your email, and select your role as a “host” or “guest.” We’ll contact you accordingly.
FAQs:
What is Run. Read. Repeat.?
Run. Read. Repeat. is a community reading club designed for runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Each month, participants receive access to a digital magazine featuring a selected reading, discussion prompts, runner stories, and community highlights. Local reading groups gather to discuss the content, connect with fellow runners, and share experiences
How Does a Reading Club Night Work?
Reading club meetings are informal, welcoming gatherings hosted by local community members.
A typical evening includes:
- Introductions and social time
- Discussion of the featured reading
- Conversation prompts from the monthly magazine
- Sharing running experiences and upcoming events
- Community announcements and next-meeting details
Most meetings last between 60 and 90 minutes.
Do I Need to Read the Entire Selection?
No. While reading the featured content beforehand is encouraged, participants are welcome to attend without pre-reading, since the content can be read during the meeting. The goal is connection, conversation, and community.
Is There a Cost to Participate?
Participation is free unless otherwise noted by an individual host or venue.
How Do I Register My Reading Club?
Interested in hosting?
Access the Host Information Page here.
Hosts receive:
- Discussion guides
- Promotional resources
- Updates and communication from the LtW team
- Referral program materials
After reviewing the host information, prospective hosts can complete a simple registration form to have their reading club added to the Run. Read. Repeat. network.
How Do Reading Clubs Impact Like the Wind?
Run. Read. Repeat. is built by its community.
Participants are encouraged to submit:
- Photos from reading club meetings
- Group run highlights
- Notable moments from discussions
- Community achievements
- Book recommendations
