I wanted to start this thread off because I am relatively new to running. Trained for the FLM this year and found it very tough as generally I trained alone. After completing the marathon decided that I had got the running bug but needed to join a Club otherwise I would not keep the momentum going.
Have done so two weeks ago and all I can say is that it's brilliant
Club is friendly, welcoming, all levels, very accommodating and the best decision I have made yet.
I was very dubious beforehand but within a week, I feel at home and relaxed when I run because they all are supportive.
I am now finding my running times are really improving and that's after 2 weeks.
The runs are much more interesting as they tend to be x-country and there is the opportunity to run longer runs as well as speedwork and hillwork. All in all they offer you exactly what you need to improve. If that's not what drives you to run and you just merely want to run and enjoy, you have that option too. You don't have to be competitive and want to break PB's all the time. The idea is to enjoy.
I write this as I think there are many beginners and novices out there who are dubious.
My final words are take the plunge. Make enquiries as to your local club(s) and try out. I am sure the majority of clubs are very similar to the one I have joined.
Go For It! Amen
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Think you've finally convinced me to take the plunge.
Go for it. No harm in trying. Keep us posted on how you get on.
you dont do 12 min miles
Running clubs would put me in a beginner group with that, and i prob would not improve
I cant do 8-9 min miles for any distance
Where can we fit in?
Don't get me wrong, Hips, I know it's hard and I have done both speed and hill work and they are very difficult but only because I haven't done this type of trianing before not because the Club aren't considerate and accommodating.
It's very easy to not give the sessions a go because you know they are hard and resort to running instead and as a slower runner (me included) you don't want to think you will be at the back... Only natural but by throwing yourself into it, you'll find that the majority of runners are very supportive and don't care if you are at the back or not. It's all in the mind of the beholder (so to speak). I decided to just go for it and am so pleasantly surprised at the outcome.
The worst scenario is that you/one gives it a go and starts at a Club, gives it a couple of weeks and decides it's not for you. Nothing wrong with that. All I'm saying is do give it a go as you may be pleasantly surprised, like I was.
I used to be quicker but slowed down with FLM training. Hoping that joining the club will get me nearer the 10min mile mark again.
Hips if you find the right club they will help you along
How did you all find the clubs that you are going to? I have tried looking on the net but have had no joy. If I finally can find a name of a club near me there are no contact details available.
Im in Fulham, but anywhere near that such as Hammersmith/Putney/Chelsea would be helpful.
Wouldnt work be boring if we didnt spend all day on this!
Hello everyone, id like to find a running club near me too!
(Chelmsford, Essex)
I don't know how I'm going to get through the day. I used to manage it better after a long and drunken night at Purple!
Definatly choclate time for me.
PS Well done to the Scud ! ! !
Alternatively, you could run there and back!
Chelmsford AC at Melbourn Park Atletic Centre.
Meet Tue & Thur 7 - 9pm
Enail mitchs@btinternet.com
Or if you go to 'URWFRC' and look for a thread called 'Herts & Essex URWFRC', there is some-one there that uses this club and may be of help.
Atletic
Enail mitchs
Have a wine!!!
Gonna have several wines ;-)
Youreright about giving it a go
BUT
The first club i phoned said hat 12 min miles was so slow i might as well walk, made me feel really good that!
Ive moved now
But some clubs arent v nice
ask Birmingham snail
I have the option of 4 running clubs in my area and all of them welcomed me with opening arms and a friendly manner. For me it was hard to choose which one! I think I made the right choice though.
Am sure (and hope) this would be the case in other areas of the UK too.