Last weekend, I completed my final long run before tapering for the Chicago Marathon. With 21 miles (or thereabouts) on my schedule, I was eager to get it done and done well – confidence is everything in a marathon and I use the last long run to give me that final boost. Typically, I prefer knowing my route for my long runs and plan it out ahead of time, but this time, my husband and I were in Boston, a city that I’d only visited when running the Boston Marathon on Patriots’ Day, and had never properly explored.

Before we traveled, I reached out to a friend for running route suggestions. They recommended running along the Charles River or joining Tracksmith for a Sunday run. Neither idea thrilled me at first. Running alone along the river without knowing the route didn’t seem like a recipe for success, and I wasn’t feeling confident enough to show up for a group run where I didn’t know anyone.

I decided that the least I could do would be to check out Tracksmith’s website to find out more about their long runs. When I did, to my surprise, I found out they host the ‘Church of the Sunday Long Run’ every Sunday in Boston, complete with a posted route on Strava so you know where you’re going ahead of time. The runs start at 8 a.m., from their store in Back Bay, and from what I could tell on Strava, seemed to be really well attended each week. I figured I’d give it a try—worst case, I could run a few miles with the group and then branch off on my own if it wasn’t working out for me.

On Sunday morning, we got up bright and early and tried to mimic race day as much as possible. I’d laid my running outfit out the night before and organised my gels, headphones and watch so getting ready was easy for once. I practiced my race-day nutrition at the hotel restaurant, where they had oatmeal with sugar and walnuts on the menu which is exactly what I like to eat before a long run or race, and enjoyed a strong cup of tea and a glass of water.

My husband walked me over to Tracksmith on Newbury Street which was just ten minutes away in one of the old beautiful brownstone buildings. The Trackhouse was open to everyone, and I met a few fellow runners in the Eliot Lounge upstairs which was inspired by The Eliot Bar, which until its closure in the 80s, was a hub in Boston for elite runners sharing stories of their adventures and races. I discovered that Tracksmith offers a place for you to store your gear at the back of the lounge while you head out for a run, which is incredibly helpful, and they even offer coffee and bananas for anyone needing a pre-run snack.

At 8 a.m., we set off in well-organized pace groups that catered to all abilities. I started out running solo at the back of one of the groups, using the first few miles to warm up, but eventually joined a cluster of runners for the remainder of the run.

The 22 mile route took us along the Charles River, over the Dam Bridge, across to the Cambridge side of the river and past the Science Park. We ran out to Watertown, stopping at water fountains and bathrooms as needed, before crossing back over at Bridge Street and heading along the river path back into Boston. The route was beautiful. We ran close to the water at some points, and headed a little further inland at others, running along trail, pavement and on occasion, boardwalk. I could’ve taken so many photos, but was too focused on my group and engaging with them.

The pace group was small with just six of us, and a couple were training for fall marathons while others simply enjoyed long-distance running. They were incredibly welcoming and friendly. We chatted about everything from our favourite Indian food and different races we’d run, to the best places to live in Boston and the various sights along the river. When we returned to Tracksmith, there was a lively post-run atmosphere, complete with sparkling water and bananas for finishers. Runners hung out with their sandwiches, and stayed around to catch up with each other out on the stoop. I also learned about all the events that Tracksmith have planned during Chicago on Marathon weekend – I need to figure out which ones to go to.

As I look back on last weekend, I feel so lucky to have found Tracksmith, and I’m grateful for my friend’s recommendation. The group was inclusive, supportive, and incredibly friendly. I went into the run uncertain about how my last long run would go and hoping it would give me confidence for race day. I came out with so much more—an uplifting sense of community, a reminder of how wonderful the running world can be, and a huge boost of positive energy!

Boston is an incredible place to run. The route along the Charles River is scenic and varied, with plenty of water fountains and bathrooms along the way. The path is buzzing with activity, which makes sense in a city that hosts the world’s greatest marathon! If you ever find yourself in Boston and are looking for a great running experience, I highly recommend joining a Tracksmith run. You can check out their calendar here for upcoming events.

Oh, and one more thing—after seeing Tracksmith’s sleek kit, you’ll definitely end up treating yourself to a well earned and much ‘needed’ gift after your long run!

Have you run in Boston? I’m curious to know more about your favourite routes and communities.