KIAMBU, July 2, 2025 – Across the lush green landscapes of Kiambu County, a vibrant fitness movement is taking root. From the rolling hills of Gatundu to the bustling streets of Thika, residents are ditching indoor gyms for the fresh air and camaraderie of outdoor wellness groups. This lifestyle shift, fueled by a growing emphasis on health and community, is transforming how Kiambu’s residents stay active.
“Every weekend, the grounds near Karura Forest in Kiambu come alive with joggers, yoga enthusiasts, and cycling groups. ‘It’s not just about exercise,’ says Jane Wambui, a 32-year-old teacher from Ruiru who leads a local running club. ‘It’s about connecting with neighbors and enjoying Kiambu’s natural beauty.’ With groups like Thika Runners and Gatundu Wellness Collective gaining traction, outdoor fitness is becoming a cornerstone of the county’s vibrant lifestyle.”
The rise of these groups coincides with Kiambu’s increasing focus on green spaces and community-driven initiatives. In areas like Juja and Limuru, local leaders have supported the creation of designated exercise zones in public parks, making it easier for residents to gather for group workouts. The county’s favorable climate and scenic environment, with spots like the Chania River and tea plantations, provide ideal backdrops for activities ranging from sunrise yoga to high-intensity boot camps.
One standout initiative is the Kiambu Wellness Collective, a grassroots organization that started in 2024 and now boasts over 500 members across the county. The group organizes free weekly sessions, including Zumba, hiking, and meditation, catering to all ages and fitness levels. “We want to make fitness accessible and fun,” says Michael Kamau, the collective’s founder. “Kiambu has so much to offer—why stay indoors when you can work out under the open sky?”
The trend is also driven by a growing awareness of mental health. Participants like Esther Njeri, a 45-year-old businesswoman from Kikuyu, say outdoor group activities have been a game-changer. “After joining the Limuru Yoga Circle, I feel less stressed and more connected to my community,” she shares. Studies support her experience: outdoor exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety and boost mood, benefits that resonate deeply in Kiambu’s fast-paced urbanizing areas.
Social media has played a key role in amplifying the movement. Platforms like X are buzzing with hashtags like #KiambuFit and #RunThika, where locals share workout schedules, scenic routes, and motivational stories. Posts from Thika Runners, for instance, reveal a 30% increase in participation since early 2025, with members citing the sense of community as a major draw.
Local businesses are also catching on. Sports shops in Thika and Kiambu Town report a surge in demand for running shoes and yoga mats, while cafes are offering post-workout smoothies tailored to fitness enthusiasts. “We’ve seen more groups stopping by after their runs,” says Grace Muthoni, owner of a Thika-based cafe. “It’s creating a whole new vibe in the county.”
However, challenges remain. Some residents note that not all areas have safe or accessible spaces for group activities, particularly in densely populated urban centers like Githunguri. County officials are addressing this through ongoing urban planning efforts, with proposals to expand park facilities in line with Thika’s recent push for city status, as reported by Citizen Digital on June 25, 2025.
As Kiambu continues to balance urban growth with its natural heritage, the outdoor fitness movement shows no signs of slowing down. For residents like Wambui, it’s more than a trend—it’s a way of life. “We’re building healthier bodies and stronger communities,” she says, lacing up her running shoes for another sunset jog. “That’s what Kiambu is all about.”
