Why Women Love Run Squad

Run Squad isn’t about pace, pressure, or keeping up—it’s about feeling supported from the moment you arrive. Many women join feeling nervous, out of shape, or unsure if they belong, and quickly realise they’re not alone.

You’ll never be left behind, judged, or made to feel like you should be fitter before you start. Every session is designed so runners of different abilities can train together, with options to walk, ease in, or push a little more—whatever feels right for you.

Run Squad meets early in the morning, which means you’re finished before the day gets busy. It’s a calm, positive way to start the day, build routine, and do something just for yourself before work, family, and life take over.

The group is mostly women, which creates a relaxed, encouraging environment where friendships form naturally. It’s common for runners to arrive as strangers and quickly become part of a supportive community that celebrates progress—no matter how small.

With sessions rotating between Williamstown Beach, Newport, and Farnsworth Avenue, you’ll build confidence on flat routes and strength on hills, without ever feeling overwhelmed.

Most importantly, Run Squad is led by a coach who genuinely cares about your experience. Dale focuses on confidence, consistency, and long-term enjoyment of running—because when running feels good, you keep coming back.

For me, Run Squad gives me a combination of exercise and socialising. There’s no other form of exercise that I’ve been this consistent with — I’ve been doing it for more than 10 years now. Some years are harder than others, but I still always go.

I love the people, the laughs, and the encouragement. If I were running on my own, I would have given up by now. Even though we’re a little bit older and slower, we keep showing up, and I know that’s because of the structure, organisation, and the gentle, kind nudges of encouragement from Dale.

He creates really good plans that keep us on track, but he also shows a lot of empathy. He adjusts your plan when you’re not feeling well or if you’re injured. And even if you can’t run, he stays in touch, so you can always slot back in.
— Tessa, Run Squad Member
People sitting in the sun - RD and his crew
A group of people enjoying lunch after running a half marathon in Queenstown NZ