Join a Running Club or Athletics Club
If you have just started running or you currently training by yourself and feeling a bit stuck with your running I would definitely recommend joining a local running club or athletics club, let’s look at some of the reasons why:
1) All UKA affiliated clubs should have fully qualified and insured coach(es). This means you know you are in a safe environment with people who understand the impact of training and affects of exercise on the body. I have had the pleasure of being part of many great athletics club during my senior running career most notably Hercules Wimbledon and Hastings Athletics Club.
2) It allows you to train with like minded and supportive people who quickly become your friends. If you haven’t found this yet, try a different club! There is a club out there for everyone. By being in a group of similar people, all working towards a similar goal you’re much more likely to achieve that, whether that is lifelong participation or your next personal best.
3) Some clubs have their own club races to try and reduce the pressure of signing up to a big race and also to drive the participation, perfect if you’re nervous about signing up but want to experience the atmosphere!
I believe so strongly in joining an athletics club, that I have chosen to become the Long Distance Endurance Coach at Hastings AC, leading the sessions on a Tuesday and Thursday evening. For me it is great to see athletes join the club as a beginner and then quickly achieving the goals they set.
So if you are unsure where you local clubs are click the following link https://www.uka.org.uk/get-involved/club-search/ and see if there is a club near you.
