Beginner Jogging Course - FAQ

• I'd like to run, but I feel very unfit - will I be able to keep up?

Don't worry! This course is designed to literally take you for zero to running. We will start very gently with walking and strength work and only get you running when you are ready, building slowly and safely from there.

• What do I wear

As long as you are comfortable it doesn't really matter. Layers tend to help you get the temperature right, hats and gloves when it's very cold and a windproof jacket in the winter is a good idea. Beg borrow or steal for a few weeks though and unless you don't have any, don't rush out and buy new trainers unless you don't have any, as we will give you advice about where to buy them and what to buy. Incorrectly fitted shoes can lead to big problems which will put you off running! 

• Is there a toilet?

Yes, at Hollybush recreation ground there is a ladies and gents toilet. Some hand wipes or gel may be a good idea! 

• I don't want to get lost!

And we don't want to lose you.. we stick together and look after each other so that no one ever gets left behind.

• I'm new to the area and don't know anyone

You will soon find that you are chatting away to new running friends. The group is very sociable,and the coaches will make sure you all get to share your experiences.

• But what if I’m too slow?

We follow a walk/run programme, starting with very short periods of running and gradually building up. We’ll also ask you to do ‘homework’ once a week to build up your stamina. This will involve repeating a similar session to the one you did that week on the course. You will receive a homework email so you can replicate it alone if it is easier for you to do so. 

• How often should I run?

When you take up running for the first time consistency is key, so we encourage you to come every week and if possible, do more than one session of running each week.

• How much is it?

The course costs £80 for the 8 week course. Pay here.

• When are the sessions?

This term our Beginner course is on Fridays from 9.15-10.15am.

• What happens during the school holidays?

We do not run courses during the school holidays or half terms.

• Can I bring my dog?

Sorry but we don't allow dogs to join us on our runs. We love dogs but not everyone does and their natural habit of stopping to do what they do, tends to get in the way!

• What happens at the end of the course?

We really hope that you will have enjoyed our course so much that you will want to join our group runs to keep up your jogging. There is a Wednesday and Saturday group run plus a Gentle Jogging Group run on a Tuesday morning. All start at 9.15-10.15.

• What does the course include ?

🏃‍ ROUTES - We will plan the routes for you keeping them flat (ish!) pretty and the right distance

🏃‍ FUN -Starting something new with others in the same boat as you is much more fun!

🏃‍ QUALIFIED COACHES - Having qualified experienced coaches to look at your running gait & technique will help you get fitter and prevent you getting injured, guide, motivate and support you will keep you from going too far- or fast and giving up 😟!

🏃‍ HOMEWORK - weekly homework emails from your coach will help you get fitter and stronger.

🏃‍ SUPPORT - Being part of our private beginners What’s App group will give you daily support from each other and your beginner coaches.

🏃‍ EMAILS - You will receive information emails after each session with hints and tips about injury prevention, what kit to buy or NOT buy 🎽 and how to eat healthily before and after exercise.

🏃‍ FRIENDSHIP - you will be joining a fabulous bunch of ladies who enjoy all that SLJ has to offer - including cake and coffee!

• When can I join the course if I have had a baby?

You can join the course when your children are at ANY AGE, but if you have recently had a baby, your baby must be a minimum of 6 months old.

• How do I know if I am ready to start running?

If you feel fit and well, with no known core or pelvic floor issues, you may well be ready to start running. We will send you a pre-screen before the course begins to ensure running is the right choice for you now.

• I sometimes leak urine, struggle to control my bowel, feel pain in my pelvic region/ back, when I run. Can I join the course?

These are common, but not normal occurrences and are a sign that your core and pelvic floor are not able to withstand high impact exercise well, so this is not the right course for you at the moment.

• Can I bring my buggy with me on the course?

No. This course is designed for mum only. During the course, we will be covering off road routes not suitable for buggies.