6 must try running groups

1. Singapore Shufflers

Best for: Intermediate runners who want to meet athletes of the same standard

About: Their website suggests that newbies need to be able to run at least 3km in under 20 minutes (i.e. 6.4 minutes per km).

When: Weekly

Where: Track runs as well as trail runs in Macritchie Reservoir

2. Team Fatbird

Best for: Intermediate runners with a training goal

About: Named after the corpulent bird statue in Singapore's CBD, this highly motivated group aims to help train intermediate runners and better their skills. There are training programs, group runs, and workshops geared to help you compete in a specific upcoming marathon. Educational running talks are also hugely popular.

When: There's always something on!

Where: Everywhere! Check their website for an event near you

3. Fortnightly Saturday Morning Runs

Best for: Casual runners (who also like breakfast)

About: Doing exactly what they say on the tin, this group is comprised of casual runners with an emphasis on the social. Each morning run is topped off by a breakfast, and "other than runs, we go for karaoke, outings, movies, hikes, cafes, dining and any other activities that you may think of."

When: Twice a month, Saturday mornings

Where: Often at East Coast Park, though venues are often rotated to keep things fun.

4. Runners Malaysia

Best for: Beginners who want to keep a comfortable pace

About: Still feeling like a babe in the woods, running-wise? This is the group for you. Their Beginner's Running Program is a half walk; half jog regimen covering three kilometres. "After a period of about eight weeks, and complemented with the participant's own two weekday workouts, the individual is expected to be able to jog for 20 minutes non-stop."

Where: Taman Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur

When: 7.30am every Saturday

5. Hornbill Pacesetters Running Club

Best for: Charity runners who run for a good cause and a good laugh

About: Kuching's first running club might be filled with skilled marathon runners, but anyone is free to join to their mid- to long- distance runs. As they say, they "welcome all runners of all paces and distances. Speed is not a factor." They also take part in fun runs and charity runs.

Where: Taman Pertemuan, aka Le'Park, Kuching

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 7.30pm, though other group runs are available

6. Kuala Lumpur Hiking & Trail Running

Best for: Adventure runners who enjoy hilly terrains and views

About: More than just a jog, hiking and trail running are among the best forms of exercises out there. Yes, this group has some hardcore, ultra-fit members, but don't let that put you off if you're still a beginner. Highly organised, the group posts events based on a difficulty rating from one to five based on altitudes, terrain and distance, so you can pick the run that suits you.

Where: various venues in and around Kuala Lumpur

When: various times, with several events per month

An Online Bonus: Jogging Buddy
Want to jog with others, but feel shy in large groups? You can search for partners who match your level of expertise on this site, focusing on users near you.

If you're new to an area joining a running club is a great way to keep fit and make new friends. For some of the best places to run in Singapore and Malaysia click here.