Running

Running can also improve:

• Weight loss
• Mood and general well-being
• Sleep
• Cardiovascular system
• Muscle and bone health

Probably the biggest challenge a new runner faces is not knowing how or where to start. Often when trying to get into exercise, we can overdo it, feel defeated and give up when we're just getting started.

This is why Couch to 5K has worked for so many people. It starts with a mix of running and walking to gradually build up your fitness and stamina.

Week 1 involves running for just a minute at a time, creating realistic expectations and making the challenge feel achievable right from the start.

Couch to 5K is for everyone. Whether you've never run before or you just want to get more active!

Our next Couch to 5K starts on Tuesday 6th May at Loughborough Leisure Centre and runs for 11 weeks. On week 12, you will then have the opportunity take part in a graduation at ParkRun. Please book your place using the link below. For more information contact active.charnwood@charnwood.gov.uk.

Dishley parkrun:

The weekly Dishley parkrun in Loughborough is a FREE 5km timed run for people of all ages.

The event takes place every Saturday at 9am at Loughborough Rugby Club, Derby Road Playing Fields, Dishley, Loughborough, LE11 5FJ. To see the full course, head to the Dishley parkrun website for more details.

It is free to join, but you must register before your first run. After that, you won't need to register again. Don't forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode as you won't receive a time for you run if you forget it.

The run is for your own enjoyment, so you can be as fast or as competitive as you like.

The event is entirely organised by volunteers - email dishleyloughboroughhelpers@parkrun.com to help.

Watermead parkrun:

The event takes place every Saturday at 9am at Watermead County Park, North Entrance, Wanlip Rd, Syston, LE7 1PD.

As with the Dishley parkrun, it is free to join, but you must register before your first run. After that, you won't need to register again. Don't forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode as you won't receive a time for you run if you forget it.

See the course page for more details on the 5K run, including a map of the course.

The event is entirely organised by volunteers - email watermeadcountrypark@parkrun.com to help.

Beacon Hill parkrun:

The event takes place at Beacon Hill Country Park (Lower Car Park), Breakback Road, Woodhouse Eaves, Loughborough, LE12 8TA.

As with the Dishley and Watermead parkrun, it is free to join, but you must register before your first run. After that, you won't need to register again. Don't forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode as you won't receive a time for you run if you forget it.

It is entirely organised by volunteers - email beaconhillcountrypark@parkrun.com to help.

If your new to running or want to be part of a club here is a list of local clubs for you to get involved in.

Barrow Runners - www.barrowrunners.co.uk for more information email; enquiries@barrowrunners.co.uk

Birstall Running Club - www.birstallrc.org.uk for more information email; birstallrc@gmail.com

Shepshed Running Club - www.shepshedrc.org.uk for more information email; info@shepshedrc.org.uk

Wreake Runners - www.wreakerunners.co.uk for more information email; run@wreakerunners.co.uk

Poplar Running Club - www.poplar-rc.co.uk for more information email; info@poplar-rc.co.uk

Runday - https://runday.co.uk/ for more information email; Michelle.Findon@Runday.co.uk