May 20, 2025

Running and Jogging in Rustenburg

The Ultimate Guide to Running and Jogging in Rustenburg: Best Routes, Clubs & Local Tips

Rustenburg is more than just a mining town or a stopover to Sun City — it’s also a hidden gem for running enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner jogger looking to improve your fitness, or a seasoned long-distance runner training for your next marathon, Rustenburg offers scenic routes, welcoming running clubs, and great weather year-round.

This in-depth guide explores the best running spots, communities to join, events to attend, and tips to stay safe and motivated.

Why Run in Rustenburg?

🏃 Clean air and scenic backdrops — Think Magaliesberg mountains, nature reserves, and quiet suburbs.
🌤️ Mild winters and warm summers — Ideal for year-round outdoor fitness.
🏅 Supportive community — Local clubs, park runs, and group training options.
💰 Affordable fitness — No gym fees required to stay active outdoors.

Best Running and Jogging Routes in Rustenburg

1. Olifantsnek Dam Road

Distance: Up to 10 km (out-and-back)
Surface: Tar road with limited traffic
Scenery: Dam views, hills, open landscapes

Why it’s great: Quiet, long stretches perfect for tempo runs and early morning jogs. Slight elevation for hill training.

Tip: Bring water — no shops along the route.

2. Kgaswane Mountain Reserve Trails

Distance: 4–25 km loops
Surface: Rocky trails and gravel roads
Scenery: Wildlife, mountains, waterfalls

Why it’s great: For trail runners and hikers who enjoy natural beauty and a challenge.

Tip: Entry fee required. Carry hydration and run in groups for safety.

3. Cashan Suburb Circular

Distance: 5–8 km loops
Surface: Paved sidewalks and roads
Scenery: Quiet suburban streets, well-kept gardens

Why it’s great: Safe and central — great for after-work runs.

Tip: Best run early mornings or evenings to avoid midday heat.

4. Rustenburg Civic Centre to Golf Club Route

Distance: ~6 km round trip
Surface: Urban pavements
Scenery: Public parks, quiet roads

Why it’s great: Popular with local joggers. Well-lit and near town.

Tip: Pair with Rustenburg Golf Course jogging loops for extra mileage.

5. Tlhabane to Waterfall Mall Stretch (Via Helen Joseph)

Distance: 8–10 km
Surface: Busy in parts — stick to sidewalk
Scenery: Urban + hilly terrain

Why it’s great: Good for hill training and long runs.

Tip: Weekends are quieter. Stay visible with reflective clothing.

Weekly Events: Parkruns and Fun Runs

🌳 Rustenburg Parkrun (Rustenburg Kloof)

When: Every Saturday at 08:00
Distance: 5 km
Entry: Free (register online once at parkrun.co.za)
Atmosphere: Welcoming to walkers, joggers, and runners of all ages

Why join? It’s social, consistent, and you can track your progress weekly.

Local Tip: Arrive early to get parking and warm up with other runners.

Top Running Clubs & Communities in Rustenburg

1. Rustenburg Multisport Club

Website/Facebook: Search “Rustenburg Multisport Club”
Focus: Running, cycling, triathlon
Events: Hosts training runs, time trials, and community races
Membership: Annual fee includes club runs and official race entries

Why join? Great for motivation, accountability, and making friends with similar goals.

2. Phokeng Athletics Club

Location: Based in Phokeng, open to broader Rustenburg residents
Focus: Development and competitive road running
Events: Community races, training camps, youth programs

Why join? Supportive environment, especially for aspiring young athletes.

3. Rustenburg Runners (Informal Group)

Platform: WhatsApp & Facebook group-based
Runs: Weekday morning runs, Sunday long runs
Who can join: All fitness levels welcome

How to find them: Ask at Rustenburg parkrun or search “Rustenburg Runners” on Facebook.

4. North West University Running Group (Potch & Rustenburg)

Who: Open to NWU students and staff, but guests welcome at fun runs
Focus: Student fitness, local competitions, and varsity sport

Tip: Check NWU Rustenburg campus boards or social media for running meetups.

Annual Races and Local Running Events

📅 Keep an eye out for these events each year:

🏃‍♂️ Rustenburg Mayoral Race

Distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km
When: Usually in August or September
Hosted By: Rustenburg Local Municipality

🏅 Buffelspoort Trail Run Series (nearby)

When: Several times per year
Distances: 5 km to 25 km
Location: Buffelspoort area (~40 km from Rustenburg)
Scenery: Mountains, rivers, bushveld

🏃‍♀️ Sun City Ultra or 10K Races

Distance: 10 km, 21 km, 50 km
Bonus: Finish line inside the world-famous Sun City resort

Gear and Safety Tips for Running in Rustenburg

What to Wear:

🩳 Lightweight, breathable fabrics
👟 Quality running shoes (pavement or trail depending on route)
🧢 Cap and SPF for day runs
💡 Reflective gear for early or late runs

What to Bring:

🥤 Water bottle or hydration pack
📱 Phone (with emergency contacts & route app)
🧰 Small running belt for keys, energy gels, etc.

Safety Tips:

Run against traffic on roads without sidewalks
Use well-lit areas for evening jogs
Always inform someone of your route
Run in groups when exploring new trails
Avoid headphones in both ears if running roadside

Apps and Tools for Local Runners

Strava: Track your runs and connect with other local athletes
Runkeeper: Beginner-friendly with training plans
MapMyRun: Plan routes around Rustenburg
Discovery Vitality App: Earn rewards for staying active if you’re a member

Where to Buy Running Gear in Rustenburg

🏪 Sportsmans Warehouse (Waterfall Mall)

Full range of running shoes, GPS watches, clothing

🏃‍♂️ Mr Price Sport & Totalsports (Also in Waterfall Mall)

Affordable gear for all levels

👟 Tekkie Town & Shoe City

Great for budget-friendly trainers

Motivation: Why Running in Rustenburg Is Special

🏞️ The views of the Magaliesberg at sunrise
🌿 Quiet streets and open landscapes
🤝 Supportive local communities
🕊️ A stress-free way to improve mental and physical health

Whether you’re training for your first 5K, enjoying your weekly parkrun, or preparing for a marathon, Rustenburg has the space, community, and scenery to make your journey memorable.

Final Thoughts: Lace Up and Hit the Rustenburg Roads

From peaceful suburban paths to thrilling mountain trails, Rustenburg has something for every type of runner. Add to that the growing local community of joggers, parkrunners, and fitness groups, and you’ll find all the encouragement you need to stay active.

🏃‍♀️ Your next great run starts here. See you on the road!