xCREW

October is almost over! We are about to approach November now -- and in this edition, get to know some upcoming events for November in the Bay Area and in the LA area. If you're around those two areas, read more about it below. -- 1. Connecting Conversations: Mental Health and Our Bodies(Virtual Event) Event description: Are you an advocate for mental health and happen to be part of the minority event? Look forward to this event.  The causes of poor mental health for LGBTQ+ communities—stigma, discrimination, isolation—are widely recognized. What still needs to be discussed however, is how do we keep ourselves well? In this   Connecting Conversation   panel discussion, we will look at one of the less discussed sources of community wellness, our bodies. Join the conversation as our panel of experts discuss how movement, play, and sports can connect us with our bodies and improve mental health. We will cover topics including the impact of physical activity on mental health,...

Ready to upgrade your #running event? Mixing Fun with Running: Exploring Coffee, Beer, and Unique Runs in the Bay Area and LA Running doesn’t always have to be just about hitting your mileage or achieving a new personal best. Sometimes, the best runs are the ones where you can enjoy a post-run treat or connect with others over a shared love for fun and fitness. In the Bay Area and Los Angeles, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that with unique running events that mix socializing with staying active. Read more below to know more about it! Coffee Runs: A Morning Boost with a Community Vibe Imagine starting your morning with a brisk run, knowing that a warm cup of coffee awaits you at the finish line. Coffee runs are growing in popularity, particularly in cities with strong running communities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. These runs often begin early in the morning, giving participants a chance to wake up, enjoy the cool air, and chat with fellow runners at a local c...

In today’s edition, we will talk about Embarcadero. It is a waterfront area near the Downtown San Francisco area. With its vibrant and busy atmosphere filled with domestic and international visitors, it’s home to several iconic landmarks including the Ferry Building Marketplace, the Exploratorium, and the Bay Bridge. While biking along the coast is a popular choice, running is another fantastic way to enjoy this scenic area. Starting at the Ferry Building Market Place, the 5-mile running trail extends all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf, offering a beautiful route with stunning views of the waterfront.   Keep in mind that this is a busy area, so be cautious of crowds, especially at intersection points. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and proper running shoes for the best experience. The good news? The trail is flat, so you can enjoy the run without worrying about hills! After the run, you can find time to hang out, grab a meal, window shop, etc. Wanna see more running grou...

We’re back with another edition of Running trails! In this edition, we will be switching locations to LA. One popular running trail and also touristy spot we want to introduce is the Griffith Park via Los Feliz Blvd. Griffith Park is easily accessible from Los Feliz, and there are several popular running routes that connect the two areas. One of the best-known routes is via the Fern Dell Drive entrance in Los Feliz. From there, runners can access trails like West Trail, Griffith Observatory Trail: Starting in Los Feliz, you can run to the iconic Griffith Observatory, and Hogback Trail, which is known to be more challenging.  These trails are well-loved by runners because they combine urban convenience with nature, and Griffith Park’s extensive trail network allows you to extend or shorten your run depending on your preferences. The park also offers various terrains, from flat routes to hill climbs, making it suitable for mostly all fitness levels. And you can’t forget the mesmerizi...

Running is one of the most popular and accessible sports worldwide. It requires minimal to no equipment and can be done almost anywhere, making it an excellent way to stay fit and active. After COVID led to the people working from home, in-person interactions naturally decreased, leading to a widespread loneliness crisis.  Near the end of COVID, people(especially those working from home) turned to run clubs as a way to meet like-minded friends and stay active. As of 2024, there are over 100 run clubs in California, with many establishing distinct brands that enhance their identity and purpose. Additionally, special running events like marathons or charity runs further strengthen connections by bringing together like-minded individuals with shared fitness goals or causes. These social interactions often lead to lasting friendships, making running not just a solo activity but also a gateway to networking and camaraderie. As run clubs continue to grow in popularity, we're excited to ...

In today's edition, we’re diving into one of San Francisco’s most popular running spots: The Presidio Trail. Located at the northern tip of the city, Presidio offers a breath-taking running experience. With a mix of natural beauty and historic landmarks from the national park, the Presidio also delivers gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. This is a true gem and a must-see site for runners and visitors. The trail features diverse terrain, from forested paths to coastal bluffs and open meadows, making it both a beautiful and varied run. One challenge to keep in mind, though, is the hills! While they can be strenuous, the effort is rewarded with spectacular scenery of the Golden Gate Bridge. Back in August, we chose this iconic location for our very first xCREW running event. We kicked things off at the Palace of Fine Arts with a 5K run, and it was incredible to see everyone pushing themselves and enjoying the stunning scenery. Have you...