There’s something about lacing up your shoes and moving alongside other people that no treadmill can replicate. DAC Run Club returned on June 1st, and if you missed the first week, don’t worry, there’s a spot for you this Monday.
Led by DAC Personal Trainer and Group Exercise instructor Kate Smith, Run Club meets every Monday from 12:15pm – 1:15pm. You’ll start and finish on the turf, and in between, you’ll cover a 5k. Whether you walk it, jog it, or run it, there’s no pace requirements and no pressure. Just you, some fresh air, and a great group.
What to Expect at DAC Run Club
Where does it start and end?
Run Club starts and ends right on the DAC turf, so you don’t need to figure out where to meet or worry about getting back. Kate keeps the group together, so whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting back into movement, you’ll always have the crew around you.
How far is it?
A 5k; about 3.1 miles. You choose your effort; walk it, jog it, or run it. Run Club isn’t a race, it’s a rhythm. The goal is to get outside and move, and whatever pace does that for you is the right pace.
Who leads it?
Kate Smith is one of DAC’s Personal Trainers and Group Exercise instructors. She brings the same energy to Run Club that she brings to the gym floor — encouraging, knowledgeable, and genuinely glad you showed up. Whether you’re brand new to running or just looking for accountability on your lunch break, Kate is exactly who you want leading the charge.
Do I need to sign up?
Just show up to the turf at 12:15pm on Monday. That’s it.
Why a Midday Run Club Works
The lunch hour is one of the most underrated windows in the day. You’re up, you’re awake, and a 60-minute movement break actually makes the afternoon sharper, not slower. Research consistently shows that midday exercise improves afternoon focus and mood. And there’s no post-work commute or evening commitment to work around.
A Monday 5k also sets the tone for the week. Starting the week with movement, especially with other people, builds the kind of momentum that carries.
Run Club Details
- When: Every Monday, 12:15pm – 1:15pm
- Where: Starts and ends on the DAC turf
- What: 5k walk, jog, or run
- Led by: Kate Smith, Personal Trainer + Group Exercise Instructor
- Cost: Included with DAC membership
Whether you’ve been running for years or you’re just starting to find your stride, Run Club is worth an hour of your Monday. Come as you are. Kate’s got the rest.
The information shared on the Downtown Athletic Club’s blog is intended for educational and inspirational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
The Downtown Athletic Club (DAC) has been Eugene’s locally owned, family-operated health club for over 40 years. Under one roof you’ll find a full Gymnasium, Cardio + Strength Floor, Group Exercise classes, a Lap Pool, warm-water therapy pool, Downtown Pilates Studio, The ZONE training program, Newberry Preschool, KidStop Daycare, and Zest Kitchen + Bar on our third floor. Locally owned means we get to build a club around the community we’ve built, and continue to build.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Enjoy a complimentary guest pass and come see why so many Eugene families call the DAC home. We’re located at 999 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401. Give us a call at 541-484-4011 anytime.








