Starting to run if you are a beginner may seem daunting but it is really rewarding once you start and easier than you might think. Running is one of the best forms of exercise to burn calories and improve your heart health. It is free and no matter what age or ability, starting to run could make huge changes to your physical and mental health.
All you need is a comfortable pair of running trainers. If you are new to running, build up your pace gradually and alternate between running and walking. It is advisory to warm up before and cool down after your run for a few minutes.
So why not give running a go and BE YOUR OWN HERO!
For more information and running tips, visit the NHS website
There are lots of running groups and activities in St Helens:
The Daily Mile encourages children to jog or run, at their own pace, for 15 minutes outside with their friends. To sign your primary school up to this FREE initiative, visit the Merseyside Sports Partnership website
The St Helens Active Lives & Sports Development Team provide a Couch to 5K Programme in St Helens, a beginners' running programme which helps you to build up your pace and confidence. Contact the Active Lives & Sports Development Team for more information:
Go Active running groups in St Helens are free, fun and for all abilities. For more information, visit the Go Active website
Go Active also provide a 400m athletics/running track at Sutton Leisure Centre. Call 01744 677375 for more information.
Mad Runners offer fun and encouraging running sessions in St Helens for all abilities. For more information, visit the Mad Runners website
Pink Panters are a free, friendly beginners running group for females aged 16 and over. For more information contact Bev Forber:
Rainford Runners provide running sessions for a variety of abilities. For more information email sthelenstri@gmail.com
Resolution Runners are a friendly social running group based in Newton-le-Willows. They offer weekly runs for all abilities. For more information visit the Resolution Runners Facebook Page
Team Isabella Running Club are based in Eccleston and offer free, fun and friendly runs for all abilities. For more information, visit the Team Isabella Running Club website
St Helens Striders is a friendly running club for all abilities. For more information visit the St Helens Striders website
Super friendly adult beginners' running group with 2 weekly running sessions held at Sutton Leisure Centre. The group is aimed at those who are just past the beginning of their running journey who have perhaps recently completed a Couch to 5K or are able to run continuously for 40 minutes. Visit the RunTogether website for more information.
Free 5km park runs take place every week in Victoria Park and Sutton Manor in St Helens. You can run, walk or jog, no matter what your pace is, everyone is welcome at St Helens Parkrun. For more information, visit the links below:
Free 2km junior park runs take place every week in Victoria Park in St Helens for 4-14 year olds. Whatever your pace, come along and have fun! For more information, visit the St Helens Junior Parkrun website
If you would like to run your own race and receive a medal (and give to charity) for doing so, visit the Virtual Racing UK website
