Virgin London Marathon

The benefits of joining a running club

Running clubs are great for runners of all abilities – you don’t have to be an elite runner to join in the fun. Here are some of the benefits of joining up:

The company

Your local running club is the perfect place to meet new people. Chances are there’ll be other runners training for the same event as you, and you might meet a partner to team up with on training sessions.

Running with others can give you a great boost on longer runs and it’s also safer than training alone.

The competition

Running in a group is a great way to draw out your competitive streak - you’ll soon set your sights on a club member you’d like to beat. This can be great preparation for races and give you the motivation to keep striving forward and improving your performance.

Local knowledge

You’ll be able to swap hints and tips with other runners in your club, keeping up to date with the running world. Get first hand advice about which local physiotherapists, masseurs and running shops are best, which routes are good for beginners and what other races and events are going on in your area.

Coaching

Many running clubs will have a coach on hand during group runs to give tips and advice. If getting some added expert help is important to you, check with your local club.

The right club for you

There is probably more than one running club in your area so why not try a few out and see which is best for you. For example, you may find it easier to attend a club near work rather than the one nearest to your house.

Also different clubs will have different priorities. Some will be very much about having fun – catering for all abilities and often finishing the session down the pub. Other clubs may take a serious approach, aiming for the county league tables and entering lots of races.