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Press & Partnerships

RUN WITH US.
TELL OUR STORY.

Urban Runner is East London's barefoot and minimalist running community. We're a diverse, growing club based in Ilford — and we're open to collaborations, media features, and partnerships that share our values.

70+
Active members
£0
Membership Fee
100%
Community-Led

Who we are

Urban Runner is led by Rak Sandhu and rooted in the belief that running is for everyone — whatever your pace, background, or footwear. We train in Ilford, one of the most culturally rich and diverse corners of London, and our club reflects that in every session.

Our members range from absolute beginners taking their first steps on grass, to marathon finishers who've crossed the line at the world's biggest races. What unites us is a shared philosophy: run naturally, move freely, and lift each other up.


What we do

  • Track Night — weekly coached sessions at our local athletics track, focused on form, technique, and getting faster naturally.
  • Grass Track — during the spring and summer, weekly sessions on grass in the park working on barefoot running biomechanics, foot strength, and connecting with nature.
  • Monthly Community Sessions — our doors are wide open. These sessions welcome any runner in the borough, with no membership or experience required. This is how we give back to the local community.

Our values

Diversity isn't a box we tick — it's who we are. Ilford is one of the most multicultural communities in Britain, and Urban Runner proudly reflects that. We run together across every background, ethnicity, ability, and pace. Our monthly community sessions are deliberately designed to lower every barrier: no membership fee, no minimum pace, no specialist kit required.

We believe barefoot and minimalist running isn't just a training method — it's a philosophy of authenticity. Strip back the unnecessary. Trust your body. Run the way you were born to.


Past partnerships

We've previously worked with Vivobarefoot — pioneers of the natural footwear movement.


We're open to

  • Media features, editorial interviews, and documentary coverage
  • Brand and product partnerships aligned with natural movement, health, and community
  • Sponsorship of our events, sessions, or club kit
  • Charity and social enterprise partnerships in East London
Get in touch

Use this form to reach Coach Rak directly. We aim to respond within 3 working days.