Seoul's Gangbuk-gu is expanding its Gangbuk-gu Running Crew program — previously open only to youth — to residents of all ages starting in the second half of this year, district mayor Jeong Chang-su announced.
The expansion follows an enthusiastic response to the first-half youth program, which filled up ahead of schedule. The district broadened eligibility to include residents in their 40s and 50s, with age-appropriate training designed to help all residents build a consistent exercise habit while running safely.
The second-half running crew will operate from September through November, meeting every Wednesday evening, with separate cohorts for participants in their 40s, 50s and youth. Each program runs four weeks and takes place at the Gangbuk-gu Health Center and along the Uicheon stream.
Under the guidance of professional instructors, participants will learn proper running form and slow-running theory, then progress through foundational jogging techniques, continuous jogging with breath and pace control, and personalized running management.
The first program, "40Run," is designed for residents born between 1977 and 1986. The district tailored it to help people in their 40s — who often experience declining fitness amid busy daily schedules — build correct running form and a solid physical foundation.
In October, the district will offer "LifeRun 50" for residents born between 1967 and 1976, focusing on low-impact running techniques that are easy on the joints and helping participants maintain consistent physical activity in daily life.
In November, the "Youth Uicheon Running Crew" will return for residents born in 1987 or later, continuing the existing program with an emphasis on pace control and endurance.
Residents who want to join 40Run — the first program of the second-half lineup — can apply through the integrated reservation system on the Gangbuk-gu website from Monday through Sept. 2. Registration is first come, first served, with 20 spots available.
After each program ends, the district plans to open a dedicated community channel for each cohort and support regular meetups and self-organized running activities so participants can maintain their exercise routines.
"Buoyed by the enthusiastic support residents showed for the first-half youth running crew, we have expanded the program to include people in their 40s and 50s," district mayor Jeong said. "We hope age-tailored running training gives residents a chance to discover the joy of running and build healthier daily lives."
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