ATHLETICS: From couch to 5k in 12 weeks

Members of the running group - the new course starts on Saturday, February 20

A new course for men who want to get running will start in Rugby on Saturday, February 20.

The 12-week course, run in association with Rugby and Northampton Athletics club, is aimed at men who don’t yet run, but want to get fitter and to run as part of a group.

The course is run by qualified and experienced running coaches, and takes participants from the sofa to a 5k running event in May, in nice easy stages.

Running group members are encouraging newcomers to have a go with this year's course

Laurence Scott, one of the course coaches said: “We’ve run the course for the last two years and it’s been really successful.

“Virtually everyone can run, but it can be difficult to get started on your own.

“Being part of a group, moving through the course together and following a structured programme really seems to help.

“It works across all age ranges, from lads in their 20s to gentlemen in their 60s…and perhaps beyond.”

All ages and abilities are welcome on the new 12-week course

Neil Harper, also a coach for the group added: “We don’t expect anyone to be quick – there’s no pressure.

“It’s about completing the course, getting into a bit better shape and getting the guys used to nice easy paced running on a regular basis.”

Alan Milsom, who completed the course in 2014, commented: “I’d never got into running and it seemed lonely and boring, and being over 50 I assumed bits of me would break.

“I found not only that I could run but it was fun to do with others, and I feel much better in myself. I now regularly run for pleasure, and do various events.

“Knowing there will always be someone to run with makes it easy to get out of the house, whatever the weather. My advice: Have a go!”

The new course, which comprises two coached sessions per week, will start at 9.30am on Saturday, February 20, at the Rugby and Northampton Athletics Club clubhouse, next to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Centre in Bruce Williams Way.

It will conclude in time for Rugby and Northampton Athletics Club 5k Fun Run on May 15. The course costs £30 per person.

For further details of the course, and to register online email: mensrunninggroup [email protected].