Need to scratch that itch for action and expand you social circle along the way? Cape Town offers a rich variety of sporty social clubs perfect for you! From simple social running and hiking to historically accurate sword fighting, here are some of the best social clubs for forging meaningful friendships while picking up a new hobby or staying active.
Table Mountain Fencing Club
Table Mountain Fencing Club offers a modern approach to adult sports fencing, providing expert coaching for all levels. The club, led by experienced instructors Glenda Pieters and David Wagenfeld, focuses on Olympic-style foil, épée, and sabre fencing. Training sessions aim to enhance physical fitness, mental focus, and competitive techniques in a welcoming environment for both beginners and advanced fencers.
With origins in the Peninsula Sword Fencing Club, Table Mountain Fencing Club has cultivated an extensive list of skilled athletes. Members have participated in both national and international tournaments, benefiting from personalized instruction and the extensive experience of their coaches. The club also fosters a sense of community through social activities such as post-practice gatherings and occasional events.
Training sessions are held weekly, with introductory programs available quarterly for those interested in trying the sport. All necessary equipment is available for rent, making it accessible for newcomers. The club’s consistent focus on balancing skill development with enjoyment creates an engaging space for anyone passionate about fencing.
Cost: Once-off introductory course R880 (equipment rental included) | Annual club access fee R800 | Lessons R60 – R140 depending on payment plan | Protective equipment rental is available at additional cost
When: Tues, 7pm to 9pm
Where: 7700 2 Greenford Rd, Newlands, Cape Town
Nine Four Running Crew
Founded in 2013 and partially sponsored by Puma, The Nine Four is a running crew with a distinct blend of athletic and social nightlife culture. Drawing inspiration from the Berlin Braves, the group embodies a philosophy of balancing serious effort with celebratory energy. Its name honors 1994, the year of South Africa’s democratic transition, symbolizing progress and collaboration, while the white rabbit logo reflects the pursuit of personal goals and continual self-improvement.
With “Run easy. Party hard.” as their motto, they strive to bring a vibrant social scene to every race. The Burrow, their two-story clubhouse and nightclub at 34 Loop Street, is central to their identity. It serves as the hub for post-run parties and events, where members can let loose and celebrate their personal victories. Their regular group runs offer a special brand of Nine Four-style motivation for participants to challenge themselves, fueled by the community’s celebratory spirit. By merging running with a party-centric ethos, the crew has cultivated a distinct identity within Cape Town’s fitness culture.
Table Mountain HEMA Club
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) combine martial training with a rich appreciation for history, offering a captivating way to engage with the past. At the Table Mountain HEMA Club, members practice techniques inspired by centuries-old combat manuals, learning to wield longswords, sabres, and other historical weapons with precision and control.
Training sessions combine practical drills, controlled sparring, and theoretical studies, creating an experience that appeals to both newcomers and experienced practitioners. The club regularly collaborates with organizations like the Medieval Armed Combat Society and hosts workshops with professional instructors, broadening the learning opportunities for its members. Beginners can start without their own equipment, as gear is available for rent during sessions.
Beyond the physical and technical aspects, the club fosters a welcoming environment with social activities such as post-training gatherings and special events, adding to the sense of community. For those interested in history, martial arts, or a unique way to stay active, the Table Mountain HEMA Club provides an experience that is both enriching and accessible.
Cost: Once-off introductory course R880 (equipment rental included) | Annual club access fee R800 | Lessons R60 – R140 depending on payment plan | Protective equipment rental is available at additional cost
When: Mon & Wed, 7pm to 9pm
Where: 7700 2 Greenford Rd, Newlands, Cape Town
Running Late Club
Founded in 2018, the Running Late Club invites individuals of all fitness levels to explore their potential through running and a shared commitment to wellness. With the guiding philosophy of “rather late than never,” the club provides an inclusive space for people to rediscover ambitions, build consistency, or take their first steps into running.
Weekly social runs take place every Wednesday evening from Saunders Rock parking lot in Sea Point, with 5km and 7km route options, and every Friday morning from TwoFortyTwo coffee shop in Green Point. Occasionally brand collaborations bring added variety to the club’s calendar. Their social gatherings and group events blend fitness with opportunities for personal growth, they strive to make sure everyone feels that they belong.
Cost: Free
When: Wed evenings & Fri mornings
Where: Saunders Rock parking lot, Seapoint
MySoulSistas
Less sporty, more active, MySoulSistas is a women’s social club that promotes connection through outdoor activities, retreats, and a members-only app. Activities include nature walks, ocean swims, hikes, market visits, and themed getaways. The club is designed for women seeking outdoor exploration, meaningful friendships, and a supportive community.
Membership includes access to an app with event calendars, discussion forums, and booking options for meetups and ticketed events. Topics such as mental health and travel ideas are covered within the app’s forums. Events take place across the Cape Peninsula, with occasional “Mommy and Me” gatherings accommodating children. Most events are adults-only.
Founded in 2021 by Stacey, the club was inspired by her recovery journey from chronic stress. Membership requires a once-off fee of R350, granting access to the app, merchandise, and promotional perks. Additional fees apply for event participation. MySoulSistas also collaborates with local businesses to provide enriching experiences, and plans are in progress to expand to other major South African cities.
Friends Who Volley
Friends Who Volley brings people together for some friendly competition or casual fun with their volleyball games at Clifton 1st Beach. Held every Thursday during the warmer summer and spring months, these games offer a relaxed, social setting where teams rotate in and out of matches. Two teams of five compete to 10 points before making way for the next two groups, ensuring everyone gets a chance to play.
The emphasis is on friendly competition and community, with players of all skill levels welcome to join. Participants are encouraged to respect fellow players, play fairly, and help keep the beach clean.
Beyond weekly games, Friends Who Volley also hosts larger paid events, such as the Friends Who Volley Festival at Cabo Beach Club. This event combines a volleyball tournament with a beachside music festival, featuring a custom-built court, live DJs, and an all-day celebration that extends late into the night.
Cost: Free | Festival entry R250 -R350
When: 5pm to sunset
Where: Clifton 1st beach
Tuesday Trails
A staple of the Cape Town running community, Tuesday Trails takes to the iconic trail running routes of Newlands Forest and central Cape Town. With no two routes being the same, Tuesday Trails encourages you to explore the nature of Cape Town and challenge your fitness, with a celebratory beer afterwards.
The route is changed every week, with details being shared on the group’s Instagram page. Runners are split into five groups on the day, with the route being decided by the group leader. All runs are generally one hour in length.
Find more information here.
When: 6pm
Where: Alternate between Newlands Forest and Cape Town central
Must Love Hills
Must Love Hills was founded with the goal of making running training free and accessible to all. On any given Tuesday at 5.30pm, you’ll find them running the hills of Newlands Forest, where everyone is welcome.
Alternatively, Must Love Hills offers a trail run on every last Wednesday of the month, in three groups between 8 and 11km. With nifty prizes for attendees and post-run Jack Black beers, don’t miss your trail running fix.
Find out more information on their website.
Pedal Power Association
Join Cape Town’s well-established cycling community with the Pedal Power Association and their weekly social rides. Open to everyone, this Saturday meeting has three route options: a short ride (approximately 34km) and intermediate ride (70km) – both with ride captains and back-up vehicles – and the advanced group (4+ hours, including climbs).
For those interested in training, join their Tuesday evening sessions at Killarney Race Track for a more challenging experience.
More information can be found on the website.
Cost: Free (social club) | R40 (Training session, PPA Members) | R60 (Training session, non-members)
When: Social Ride: Saturdays at 6.30am | Training: Tuesdays at 5.15pm
Where: Social ride: PPA Office, 9 Hill Park Lane, Mowbray, Cape Town | Killarney: 6 Potsdam Road, Table View, Cape Town
Chicks Who Hike
The sister group to Chicks Who Trail, Chicks Who Hike offers a relaxed hiking experience with other women in Cape Town, and offers the chance to slow down and experience nature.
The group does a sunrise hike most Friday mornings, and sometimes sunset hikes on Friday evenings. Keep up to date on the hikes on their Instagram page.
Find more information here.
Couch Potato Run Club
Couch Potato Run Club are on a mission to debunk the myth that running is a daunting prospect, by creating a space that allows beginners to feel supported in their running journey. Buy tickets to one of their programmes near you, or join an open event for a no-stress run.
More information is available on the website.
