Stars Launch Run Clubs to Connect with Fans

Diplo, Gunna, and Travis Barker engage fans through fitness-focused events

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Trending artists like Diplo, Gunna, and Travis Barker have launched their own run clubs, hosting 5K races and music events to connect with fans in a new way. The artists say the clubs allow them to share their passion for running and fitness, while also providing a platform for charitable initiatives and unique brand partnerships. Despite the logistical challenges, the run clubs have become a new avenue for the artists to engage with their fan communities.

Why it matters

The rise of artist-led run clubs highlights a growing trend of musicians using fitness and wellness as a way to deepen connections with fans. By hosting these events, the artists are able to share something personal that has benefited them, while also creating a new revenue stream and exposure to different demographics. The run clubs also allow the artists to give back to their local communities through charitable initiatives tied to the events.

The details

Gunna launched his Wunna Run Club in 2025, hosting 5K races in multiple cities where fans can run alongside the rapper. Travis Barker's Run Travis Run and Diplo's Diplo's Run Club have also hosted similar events, combining the running experience with live music performances. The artists say the clubs allow them to share the benefits they've experienced from running, including improved mental health and physical fitness. Organizing the events comes with logistical challenges like securing permits and insurance, but the artists have found ways to offset costs through sponsorships and unique venue partnerships. The run clubs also provide a new platform for the artists to engage with fans, sell merchandise, and raise money for charitable causes.

  • Gunna launched the Wunna Run Club in September 2025.
  • Travis Barker's Run Travis Run events launched in late 2025.
  • Diplo's Diplo's Run Club began hosting events in the fall of 2024.

The players

Gunna

A rapper who launched the Wunna Run Club, a traveling 5K event where fans can run alongside him.

Travis Barker

A drummer who launched the Run Travis Run 5K events, which combine running with live music performances.

Diplo

A DJ and producer who launched the Diplo's Run Club, hosting 5K run-and-rave events in multiple cities.

Sam Hunt

Diplo's longtime agent at Wasserman Music, who helps produce the Diplo's Run Club events.

Renee Brodeur

Diplo's co-manager at TMWRK, who also helps produce the Diplo's Run Club events.

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What they’re saying

“My fans are not just my music consumers; they're my life consumers too. I had to give them this knowledge. They deserve it.”

— Gunna (Billboard)

“Not being athletic, it was the thing I knew I could do on my own. I didn't need any equipment. No excuses.”

— Travis Barker, Drummer (Billboard)

“No matter what city you're in, no matter where you live, there's always a place to run. I've run in Guatemala; I've run in Antarctica. You don't even really need shoes.”

— Diplo, DJ and Producer (Billboard)

What’s next

Gunna says his 'real goal' is to host his own marathon, which will likely happen in September. The next slate of Run Travis Run 5Ks will be announced in the coming weeks, and Diplo and his team are working to expand his run clubs to additional cities in the U.S. and internationally.

The takeaway

The artist-led run club trend demonstrates how musicians are finding new ways to connect with fans beyond just music, using fitness and wellness as a platform to share their passions, raise money for charity, and engage with their communities in a more holistic way.