Running Mate
Running Mate is a mobile platform that connects runners with verified, on-demand running companions to address safety concerns, particularly for women. The app provides real-time matching with background-checked mates, route sharing, and live tracking, with service available in 14 cities. The company also offers a corporate wellness program with coached race training from 5K to marathon distances.
- Wellness & Fitness Technology
- Sports Technology
- Software Only
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Founder details are not available yet.
Product
Problem
Many runners, particularly women, face safety concerns when running alone, with 92% of women concerned for their safety and 43-60% having experienced harassment while running. Traditional solutions like running groups or buddy systems are not available on-demand, leaving runners without immediate access to a verified companion when they want to run.
Solution
Running Mate provides a platform that connects runners with verified, on-demand running companions through a mobile app. The app enables real-time matching with background-checked mates in the user's area, route sharing, and real-time tracking during runs. Runners can select mates based on pace preferences, including walking, and can use the service in their home city or while traveling. The platform also offers a corporate wellness program that provides turnkey race training (5K to marathon) with expert coaching, accountability check-ins, and a virtual training hub for employee teams.
Target Audience
Primary customers are individual runners—especially women concerned about safety—who want on-demand running companions, as well as companies seeking structured employee wellness programs with measurable outcomes and race-day experiences.
Features
- Background verification of all mates through Checkr, including court records, employment databases, and driving record repositories, with onboarding in 1-3 days
- Real-time on-demand matching showing verified mates in the runner's immediate vicinity
- Route sharing and real-time tracking during runs for enhanced safety
- Flat-rate compensation of $15 per run for mates with transparent pricing for runners
- Pace customization per event, supporting both runners and walkers at all experience levels
- Travel-friendly functionality with local mates available in 14 live cities, helping travelers find safe routes and avoid dangerous areas
- Corporate wellness program with personalized training plans, weekly coaching check-ins, nutrition guidance, and race-day support