Stockholm’s proximity to the sea and nature makes it an ideal place for recreation and well-being. The islands within the city are excellent for running, with scenic paths along the waterfront. We spoke with YMR Track Club’s CEO and Founder, Peter Häggström Lindecrantz, who shares his top five running routes in the city.
Entrepreneur and former track and field star Peter Häggström, a multiple Swedish champion, is a man of many pursuits. When he’s not a commentator for televised track and field events, he runs the popular performance wear brand YMR Track Club.
How long have you been running?
All my life basically. I started with athletics at the age of nine.
What’s your relationship with running like – in the past and now?
I used to be a long jumper and a sprinter, competing at the Olympics and winning six Swedish Championships. It was after I ended my career that I discovered a different way of running. Unfortunately, I have a bad back at the moment and I am not running as much as I would like to. But I love running and the lifestyle around track, trail & road. I have also been working as an expert for Swedish Television at moments such as the Olympics in Paris and have had an opportunity to experience running on track at those kind of events.
What have been highlights for you as a business owner? What do you wish you'd figured out sooner?
The biggest highlight is our customers. We get quite a lot of credit for our quality and for going our own way within production and sustainability.
Do you enjoy running in a city or is it a means to an end?
I love running in the city and especially here in Stockholm.
Favourite routes to run in Stockholm and why? What types of sessions are these?
1. Djurgården
Start your route by taking a boat to Blockhusudden, then running along the canal towards YMR Track Club’s Clubhouse at Östermalm in the middle of Stockholm. The path is nearly all dirt road so is easy on the joints and showcases stunning views. Running here feels like being in the countryside, right in the heart of the city.
Djurgården: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k5d2D5tdVBBhWQwz7
2. Around Kungsholmen
This route circles Kungsholmen, providing breathtaking views of Stockholm along the way. It passes along the scenic Norr Mälarstrand, Kungsholmsstrand, and the iconic City Hall. It’s hard to find a more beautiful route in the city.
Kungsholmen: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUYqRY5xRYocBzfP7
3. Kvarnholmen to Nyckelviken
Starting in the vibrant and trendy neighborhood of Kvarnholmen in Nacka, just by the water where I live, run via Nacka Strand toward Nyckelviken. This route has a bit of elevation change and offers a mix of cityscapes, sea views, and forested areas, combining urban charm with natural beauty.
Nyckelviken: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DVLHoCHbqbG8CAKp8
4. Stockholm Olympic Stadium
As an Olympic athlete, I've visited many athletics stadiums worldwide, but none compare to Stockholm’s Olympic Stadium. Famous for its numerous world records, the stadium is open to the public and features fast, comfortable running tracks. Stepping into this historic arena gives an impressive, almost awe-inspiring sensation. The Olympic Stadium is also just a few blocks away from YMR Club House.
Stockholm Olympic Stadium: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uP8LHpedw1j6FMXt9
5. Early Morning in the City
Get an early start to avoid traffic, beginning in the Old Town (Gamla Stan) and heading towards the Royal Palace. From there, the route continues past the Grand Hotel, along Nybroplan, and out onto Strandvägen. After turning towards the TV building, head up Karlavägen, run through Humlegården, cross “Humlan,” and pass Stureplan, Kungsträdgården, and Slussen. Finish off with a well-deserved coffee at a cozy café on Götgatan in Södermalm. This route captures many of Stockholm’s most beautiful spots and shows off the city’s unique charm.
Strandvägen (Stockholm City): https://maps.app.goo.gl/4kyknvFddNWu2ADq7
Each of these routes showcases Stockholm’s diverse landscapes, blending waterfront views, lush parks, historic sites, and urban ambiance, making it a paradise for runners.
Do you use any studios in Stockholm for strength work or cross training?
Yes, I have trained at many places and there are a lot of good ones here. I actually have a training studio in the building where I live. This is where I train today and even if it’s small, I can do the strength work I need.
Favourite places to find:
Rest
The Lydmar Hotel is in the perfect location in the middle of the city but still quiet and the Nobis Hotel for a great atmosphere and food.
Reflection
Små Dalarö, is an amazing spa outside Stockholm that has been renovated recently.
Nourishment
Fotografiska is the Museum of Photos. I love the atmosphere and exhibitions. Sturehof is one of the most well known restaurants in Stockholm. Great food from Sweden. A little bit pricy, but so good! And don’t miss a Swedish Fika. We rate the fika places by who has the best cinnamon buns and that is Fabrique.
Momentum
Urban Deli has a great spot for co-working that is open for everyone and of course there's YMR Clubhouse. Come in for a chat or coffee at Grevgatan 27.
What clothing do you run in?
This a my favorite outfit:
The Åsunden Half Zip Hoodie is great to run in and looks so nice that I can wear out for dinner as well:
The Stadion Track Pants are great for running but also as casual track pants:
The Bäckaryd Performance Cap - I love caps and we made this especially for runners with ventilation panels and premium fabrics:
How could your city be improved for runners?
Less cars in the middle of the city would be good. But I think that Stockholm has a very good setup for running. Stockholm Marathon is amazing. If you haven’t run that race, you should.
Who would you want to answer these questions and for which city?
I was in Barcelona a while a go and fell in love with the city. I would like to know more about the city and where to run. Anyone who lives there and loves running, would be interesting to interview.
One final tip for anyone running in Stockholm?
You can stay in the middle of the city and experience all the disciplines like track, trail and road next door. There are a lot of run clubs that are for free, like our club. Google the internet and find the one that you enjoy the most. Everyone in Stockholm is fluent in English, so it’s easy to understand everyone.
OneTrack Club Members can enjoy exclusive perks at YMR Track Club. Discover now in the OneTrack Clubhouse.
Follow Peter @peter_haggstrom and learn more about YMR Track Club: ymrtrackclub.com
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