How do you find someone to hike or exercise with?
Short answer: join a group or club that already goes out at a fixed time, suggest a specific route instead of a vague "let's do something", and tell someone where you are going. Here are 7 ideas, and an option if you would rather book a person for the outing.
Blog · Updated on 10 November 2026
7 ways to find a sport or hiking partner
- A local club or association: hiking, running, cycling, climbing. Many offer a trial session or an open outing, so check with them.
- A regular outing group: local event sites and apps list outings at set times. The plan already exists, so you do not have to organise it.
- An outing suggested to colleagues, neighbours or friends of friends: a specific route, a date, a start time. A clear proposal gets more replies than a vague invitation.
- A group class: yoga, swimming, strength training, dance. You see the same people every week, and conversation comes naturally.
- A popular race or walk: signing up for an event with a start time gives you a goal and people heading the same way.
- A beginner-friendly sport session: some cities and associations run slots for people starting or coming back, with no level required.
- Common sense before you go: tell someone your route and return time, check the weather and pick a route that suits your fitness.
What if you would rather book someone?
Sometimes you have no club and no friend free that day. On Rent a BFF you can book a BFF by the hour, a verified person, for a walk, a hike or a light outing. It is strictly friendly and platonic, in a public place. You send a request, the BFF accepts, you pay a 15% booking fee online, then the BFF's rate directly on the spot. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, fee refunded. For an outing in nature, pick a public meeting point and avoid an isolated route the first time. Also read: renting a friend to visit a city and what to do alone on a Sunday.
What it is not
Rent a BFF is not a dating site, not a personal trainer, and does not replace proper supervision for a risky activity. For high mountains or a technical sport, go through a club or a qualified professional. More in renting a friend to ease loneliness.
An outing with company?
Browse the profiles published near you and send your request, with no commitment.