YOUR CITY. YOUR PACE. YOUR PEOPLE.
What is KMC RUNNING?
KMC Running is a community-first run club based in Knoxville — built for people who want to get outside, move their bodies, and feel good doing it.
We’re not here to obsess over pace. We’re here for consistent miles, fresh air, and good people.
Whether you’re training for your next race or just starting your running journey, there’s a place for you here.
Meet the Team
KMC Running is powered by passionate runners who believe movement is better when it’s shared. Our coaches bring together Knoxville’s running community through group runs and training events, creating space for every pace to get outside, connect, and feel good moving together.
Whether you’re chasing a new PR, training for your first race, or just showing up for the miles, our coaches make every run welcoming, safe, and a whole lot of fun.
-
Maria Zolkowski
Head Coach, KMC Running
Maria is a lifelong runner and coach who leads KMC Running with energy, encouragement, and a deep love for the Knoxville running community. She’s passionate about making every runner feel welcome — no matter their pace or experience level.
-
Eric Ruckart
Head Coach, KMC Running
Eric brings experience, consistency, and a calm, motivating presence to every run. He’s focused on helping runners build confidence, stay accountable, and enjoy the process of showing up week after week.
Outside's better with friends
Outside's better with friends
when we run
-
Sunday Morning Run
Time: 9:00 AM
Meet: Partial Coffee & Wine
Distance: ~2.4 miles (1-mile walking route available)
Pace: All paces welcome — run, jog, or walk
Ease into your Sunday with friends, movement, and coffee. This relaxed morning run is the perfect way to start your day and explore downtown Knoxville together. Stay after for a latte and community hang at Partial.
-
Monday Night Run
Time: 6:30 PM
Meet: Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus
Distance: Choose your route — 2.5, 3.1, or 4+ miles
Pace: All paces welcome
Join our biggest group run of the week! We run through Downtown Knoxville and meet back at Barrelhouse for post-run ciders and community hangouts. Multiple route options make it easy for every runner to find their perfect distance.
-
Thursday Night Run
Time: 6:30 PM
Meet: Varies weekly (check our events calendar, Instagram, or Strava club for this week’s location)
Distance: 5K (3.1 miles)
Pace: All paces welcome
Your midweek reset. We rotate locations and routes each week to keep things fresh! It’s the perfect way to shake off the week, explore new parts of Knoxville, and head into the weekend with friends.
“When I started running, it was just a way to move. Over time, it became something much deeper. It became a way to take care of my mental health, push my limits, and find community in the process. I hope KMC Running gives others that same sense of purpose and joy.”
— MARIA ZOLKOWSKI, HEAD COACH, KMC RUNNING
FAQs
-
Not at all! KMC Running is open to everyone — from first-time runners to those training for races. Our focus is consistency, community, and movement that feels good. You can walk, jog, or run at your own pace.
-
Absolutely! You can always find people to walk or jog with, but there’s no pressure to match anyone’s pace. Go at whatever speed feels right for you — and if you’d like someone to buddy up with, just reach out to any KMC leader!
-
KMC Running hosts social group runs around Knoxville — relaxed, welcoming runs made for movement, connection, and consistency. Right now, our focus is on casual road runs, but we’re exploring ways to add new runs, like track workouts, soon!
-
No RSVP needed! Just check our events calendar, Instagram, or Strava Club for the most up-to-date meet locations and details, then show up a few minutes early to check in.
We recommend joining the run on Strava so you can see the route in case you get separated from the group.
-
Bring your running shoes, water (with electrolytes), and anything else you need to be comfortable.
If visibility is low (like early mornings, evenings, or cloudy days), please wear a light and some reflective gear so everyone stays safe and easy to see.
-
We recommend running without them so you can stay aware of traffic, hear announcements, and connect with others.
If you do wear headphones, please keep one ear open for safety.
-
CAN I BRING MY DOG?
Yes! Friendly dogs are always welcome at our runs.
Just make sure your pup stays on a leash at all times and is comfortable around people and other dogs. Don’t forget water and waste bags to keep everyone safe and the route clean!
-
Usually, yes! We run year-round unless conditions are unsafe (like storms or ice). Any cancellations or weather updates are always posted in our GroupMe, Instagram stories, and Strava Club before the run.
-
Join KMC to gain access to our GroupMe and Strava Club to stay in the loop, meet new people, and share your runs. Most of our friendships start in those chats or over a post-run coffee!
-
While KMC Running is first and foremost a run club, most of us love a good race and are always working toward new goals! We don’t all compete, but we’re always cheering each other on.
When several of our runners sign up for the same event, we’ll often create a KMC Running race team — so keep an eye out for us at your next race!
Your city. Your pace. Your People.
Your city. Your pace. Your People.
CHECK OUT OUR CALENDAR
We move together every week — runs, rides, hikes, and everything in between. You’ll see our biggest events shared on social media, but members get the full inside scoop through our private event calendar, GroupMe, and weekly email updates.
Join KMC for free to unlock the full schedule and be part of Knoxville’s outdoor community.