OVER the last eight weeks Cirencester based running club Running Somewhere Else have been holding a beginners course aimed at encouraging new runners and those returning from injury.
The course followed the popular couch to 5k format, but with the added bonus of LIRF and CIRF accredited coaching and encouragement from like-minded runners.
The group focused on mobility before running, good form and technique, and stretching after a run.
The course gradually improved distance and worked on speed without causing injury. The 8 weeks culminated in one final task, to run a parkrun.
In typical Running Somewhere Else style, the club came out in force to support the beginners at Cirencester parkrun on the 8th June, all wearing club vests to ‘paint’ the course yellow.
Club chair, Pauline Tilbury said: "We are so happy to be welcoming these enthusiastic athletes to our club.
"They arrived as beginners eight weeks ago and are now fully fledged runners.
"Big thanks to RSE Head Coach Dave Witnall and his coaching team for executing such an enjoyable and effective training plan.’
Running Somewhere Else was formed in 2007 and has steadily grown over the years, welcoming runners of all abilities, from casual beginners to seasoned ultra runners.
With a team of 10 coaches overall, the club benefits from varied effort sessions around Cirencester.
Four coaches and additional helpers from the club dedicated their time to training and inspiring the new members, as well as making sure they didn’t get lost on the club routes!
Head coach, David Witnall said: "It was great to see so many take part in the course.
"We formed a really tight knit group, and some beginners have already begun running together at weekends.
"Everyone did brilliantly and the improvement from week 1 to graduation has been remarkable.
"I look forward to seeing them progress even further as they join our regular club sessions.’
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