Finding my people: Why I joined a slow running club as a competitive runner

Have you heard of Kalakohvijooks? If not, then read on.

Kalakohvijooks was founded by Hannah Swabey in 2024 to help new runners build endurance in a welcoming, inclusive environment that brings together locals and expats. Every Saturday morning, the club meets at Telliskivi tram station for a social 4-5 km jog, ending with coffee and bagels at Colab in Kalamaja. While the pace is very easy (around 7:30/km), the community spirit is very strong. The run club has already welcomed runners from over 15 nationalities, with a regular core of 10-15 participants per week.

30th run special edition powered by KULG. Photo by Maarja Liiv.

I had been following the club on Instagram for a while. But with my race season prep in full swing, it just hadn’t fit into my schedule. Then, a few months ago, I finally made it and joined them for a Saturday morning run. And it was amazing. The community, the spirit, the friendly and open atmosphere. I immediately knew: These are my people.

I’d been looking for a running club for a while already. Community run clubs are booming in Tallinn right now. And there’s a wide variety of options. So why was it Kalakohvijooks that sparked my excitement?

Kalakohvijooks is a slow-run club. I’m a competitive runner, which means the pace is way slower than what I’d usually run. So why did I still choose to join?

When I looked for a running club, I wasn’t looking for something ultra-competitive. I’m the runner who loves to train on her own, following my own individual plan. So it was clear to me that I wasn’t searching for a club where a community run would become another training session or push me beyond what’s on my plan.

I was looking for exactly this: community. A run club where I don’t have to perform. Where I can simply enjoy an easy run without any pressure. Just good vibes and great company. A run that could fit perfectly into a recovery day, where I can meet new people and make new friendships. A space that feels welcoming, open, and friendly to everyone who shows up.

As a running coach I always prioritise an open, inclusive atmosphere. Every runner starts somewhere, and every runner runs at their own pace.

Kalakohvijooks represents all the values I care about as a coach: individuality, inclusiveness across all levels, the joy of movement, and a strong sense of community that goes beyond just running.

Everyone’s welcome at Kalakohvijooks. Whether you’re a local or a foreigner. Whether you're a newbie to running or a seasoned marathoner. And also welcome to join: young mums running with strollers (our youngest member isn’t even two yet) or injured runners joining on the bike. Like me! Over the past weeks, I've been forced to take a break from running due to muscle and nerve inflammation in my thigh. Being able to still join the crew on my bike made the recovery weeks so much better. It kept me motivated and stopped me from diving into self-pity and misery. It helped me stay positive and focused on getting back to running very soon.

Runners of Kalakohvijooks in Kalamaja.

So, if you’re looking for a running community that values connection and friendship, you should definitely check out Kalakohvijooks. The people are awesome, and it’s always a lot of fun. All levels are welcome. And yes, also fast runners will get something out of it. Because no, we don’t always need to run fast. There’s a lot to gain from slowing down, especially when it leads to new friendships and connections.

Plus, afterwards you can enjoy really good coffee and bagels at Colab.

Give them a follow on Instagram.