A GOOD DAY SERIES: TOWN STRIDES
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Monday Talent’s very own, Aziza Yaropa, has a side hustle and it’s a good one.
Town Strides is transforming the fitness landscape in Oakland, creating a space where everyone can feel welcome, supported, and inspired. What started as a simple idea has grown into a powerful community that blends physical health, mental well-being, and inclusivity. Town Strides reflects Oakland's rich cultural diversity and aims to ensure that everyone, especially those from underrepresented groups, has a place in the world of fitness.
Founded by Aziza Yaropa and Ashley Hughes, Town Strides was born from a desire to create a running community that truly represents all people, particularly Black runners. Aziza’s personal journey of fitness illuminated the need for a more inclusive space; she found that many existing run clubs lacked the sense of representation and belonging that she sought. Recognizing this gap, Aziza and Ashley launched Town Strides with a vision to build a fitness community that empowers everyone, no matter their fitness level, and prioritizes physical and mental well-being.
From its early days, Town Strides has been about more than just running. The club is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where people can come together not just to exercise but to connect, build friendships, and uplift one another. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or running, Town Strides welcomes individuals to join at their own pace and feel included in a larger movement toward health and self-improvement.
How did Town Strides get started?
Town Strides began as an idea rooted in my love for running and a desire for inclusivity. Along with Ashley Hughes, I wanted to create a space where people of all fitness levels could come together to move, grow, and connect. The inspiration for Town Strides traces back to my journey in running and personal fitness progress. While training consistently for the Napa Half Marathon, I realized I was making significant gains but lacked a running community that truly resonated with me. I had joined other run clubs, but many didn’t feel inclusive or reflective of my experiences as a Black woman. This lack of representation fueled my desire to create a space where Black runners could feel seen, included, and empowered. Town Strides was born out of this vision, with our first event being a partnership with The Black Neighborhood, setting the stage for a community that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being, while uplifting and supporting Black individuals through fitness.
Why is the club called Town Strides?
Oakland is called "The Town," and it was important to us that the club's name reflected its Oakland roots. That's how “Town Strides” was born—signifying both the city and the progress that comes from taking strides, whether walking, jogging, or running. The name embodies our commitment to inclusivity, encouraging everyone to participate at their own pace.
What was the initial response to Town Strides in the community?
From the start, we experienced great member turnout, showing that the community was craving a space like this. And the city responded—Town Strides now has over 17,000 followers on Instagram and regularly sees around 300 people participating in our events. But our gatherings don’t stop at workouts. After most events, we host “The Cool Down”—a time for members to socialize, network, and build friendships.
What role does social media play in the club's success?
Social media plays a crucial role in keeping Town Strides connected with our members, allowing us to engage with followers, share updates, and collaborate with local businesses. This online presence extends our reach and helps us form partnerships that benefit both the fitness and business communities. We frequently work with Black-owned businesses, like Fitnesse, and local restaurants to host events that strengthen community ties. Town Strides has had a profound impact on Oakland’s Black community by creating an open space where people feel a sense of belonging. It’s more than just fitness—it’s about socialization, mental health, and providing a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone, especially those who often feel underrepresented in traditional fitness spaces, can thrive. We’ve had great feedback from the community often expressing their gratitude for the welcoming atmosphere we provide, emphasizing our role in promoting mental well-being and deepening community bonds.
What’s Next for Town Strides?
Town Strides isn’t slowing down anytime soon! We're focused on keeping our events consistent and continuing to partner with local businesses and brands in the fitness space. Town Strides has become a fitness hub in Oakland, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, whether you’re new to running or seasoned on the track. Our growth and success reflect our vision to make fitness accessible and community-focused. As we look to the future, our goal remains simple yet powerful: keep building, keep partnering, and keep moving forward.