Run leaders and community groups say interest in the sport is surging across Bahrain, with a wave of newcomers progressing to marathons and Ironman races – and even landing podium finishes – helping to foster a strong, disciplined running culture.
Despite periods of regional tension that forced a temporary halt to some organised runs, the momentum has held firm. It has only underscored the community’s resilience, with many runners continuing independently, carving out solo routes and staying committed to their training and goals.
Not a Cult founder Kristina Rosales, a certified personal trainer, told the GDN that the running community has expanded markedly over the past year, driven in part by a more inclusive and welcoming approach to the sport. She co-founded the group in April 2025 with her Hungarian husband Zsolt Jozefiak, who serves as the strength and conditioning coach for East Riffa Football Club.
Not a Cult’s first run last year with only 15 members
“Make running fun and accessible for everyone – that is what we have aimed to do with our group,” she said. “It does not always have to be about racing or structured training; movement is a lifestyle and it should be enjoyable.”
Ms Rosales, who was born in the Philippines, said the group brings together a diverse mix of participants from a wide range of nationalities. “Some join for the social atmosphere, others as part of their training and some with the goal of competing in races and marathons,” she said.
Reflecting on the group’s impact since its launch, she pointed to a number of personal transformations. “We have seen people go from walking to running half marathons and athletes hitting podiums, achieving new personal bests, feeling stronger and becoming more social and confident,” she said, emphasising that every kind of progress matters.
The group paused its gatherings for six weeks during the recent period of regional tension, with safety remaining a top priority. When runs resumed on April 17, turnout dipped slightly to around 100, compared with the usual 150 to 200.
One of Not a Cult’s latest runs, with more than 200 participants
“It is understandable. Many of our friends are still not in the country, and some are naturally more cautious and choosing to say home,” she added.
To maintain engagement, the group launched an initiative called ‘April Mikes’, encouraging members to run independently, with a minimum target of 30km and a cap of 200km for the month. “It really helped the community stay connected and motivated,” Ms Rosales said.
She also underscored the importance of shared support during challenging times. “Being a part of a community gives you a real sense of belonging.”
Meanwhile, Happy Team, founded in 2014 by team captain AbdulKarim Turki, has also witnessed significant growth in participation over the years.
He pointed to a major turning point in the kingdom with the introduction of Ironman Bahrain by His Majesty King Hamad’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
“This inspired many people to embrace endurance sports and adopt a more active lifestyle,” Mr Turki said, noting that many members started as beginners, often only able to run short distances.
Through consistent training and support, they gradually improved their pace and endurance, eventually progressing to full marathons and Ironman races.
Happy Team regularly takes part in events in the kingdom, often organised by Bahrain Road Runners and Bahrain Triathlon Association and also arranges annual group trips to major marathons in Europe.
Reflecting on periods of regional tensions, Mr Turki said many people turned to running as a way to cope. “We saw this transition during Covid-19 as well,” he said. “People value having a positive, encouraging environment where they can come together and support one another.”
For Dana Zubari, founder of Lettuce Run, the initial goal was simple — to encourage women to take up running by working towards a 3km target. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has evolved to a more inclusive platform, introducing long walks alongside runs to accommodate women of all fitness levels.
“It has become a welcoming space where women can come together for free, connect and support each other on their journey towards a healthier, more active lifestyle,” she said, adding that her sessions are designed exclusively for women and their children.
Happy Team group
Diversity remains central to the group’s identity. “During one of our breakfast gatherings, we realised that women from more than 10 countries were sitting together at a table, connected by a shared passion for health and community,” she said.
Locations vary with the seasons, shifting between outdoor walks and runs during cooler months and indoor mall meet-ups in summer.
Addressing the impact of regional tensions, Ms Zubari said her personal routine remained unchanged.
“Has it stopped me from doing my outdoor runs? No,” she said. “I continued running during the peak of tensions. I believe in the power of God and in our government’s ability to protect us during challenging times.”
However, she acknowledged public hesitation and chose to temporarily pause Lettuce Run activities. With confidence returning, walks and runs have since resumed. “We are excited to continue and will be starting our indoor walks to keep the community active,” she added.
To keep up with future events, follow @notacult.run, @lettuce.run and @htrunners on Instagram.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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