Good Vibes & Strides: How personal adversity led to Sacramento all-girl walking club

In a city full of strangers, Good Vibes & Strides offers more than just exercise; it's a place where women of all ages find connections, support and a sense of belonging.

It was founded by Sacramento's Jennifer Kidwell, who also owns two gyms in the area with her husband and works for the state’s public sector.

“I really fell in love with being outside and it was something that was therapeutic for me and with my disease,” said Kidwell.

The group meets once a month, traveling to different scenic spots around the greater Sacramento area from Roseville to Folsom, ensuring each walk feels fresh and inviting. It's a space where any woman, no matter her background or age, can join.

“I want every girl who comes out to know she won’t walk alone,” Kidwell said. “Whether she’s 8 or 80, from Roseville or beyond, this is a community where everyone belongs.”

Every event has a unique theme, designed to spark joy and create a fun atmosphere. Past themes are a Galentine’s Day stroll and the “Make Lemonade” picnic, inspired by Kidwell's journey managing rheumatoid arthritis.

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” Kidwell said. “Our little logo that I created, she looks like a lemon kind of and so the idea behind that is I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, and from that we make lemonade, right?”

Beyond the colorful aesthetics and upbeat music, the heart of Good Vibes & Strides is its culture of connection. At the start of every walk, Kidwell encourages attendees to meet new people by introducing themselves to at least five strangers.

Throughout the walk, she encourages participants to reach out to anyone walking alone.

“This isn’t just a group walk,” Kidwell said. “It’s a space where women come together to share their stories, support each other and build friendships that last well beyond the walk.”

The impact is clear. Participants have shared stories of overcoming fear and loneliness, making lifelong friends and even pushing personal limits.

“There's been times where I saw one girl walking alone who comes many times, she feels fine doing it," Kidwell says. “I think she was filming, but I'm like, come with me.”

Kidwell credits much of the group’s growth to social media. With vibrant Instagram and TikTok pages featuring a vintage-inspired mascot, Miss Sunny D. Stridewell, Good Vibes & Strides has built a connected online community.

In a world where meaningful connections can be hard to find, Good Vibes & Strides is proving community is just a walk away.