Love running, but finding it hard to stay motivated? Join a free local running community and find some likeminded buddies to spur you on. Kasia Maynard checks out the three of the best in Surrey and South West London.
Sweatshop Running Communities
The UK's biggest running retailer, Sweatshop has various locations around the UK including Teddington, Windsor and Clapham. Each shop has a Sweatshop Running Community (SRC) which consists of a variety of running groups for all abilities. The three core groups are: beginners, 5/10km and interval sessions. All runs have a Sweatshop staff member at the back so no matter your pace you will never be the last one back. SRC is a very sociable community and there are free incentives to keep you motivated as you progress, so if you need that nudge to get you out the house sign up now.
When and where?
Monday: 6:30pm- Beginners and 5/10km
Thursday: 6pm- Intervals
Sunday: 9am- Beginners and 5/10km
Monday: 7pm- Beginners
Wednesday: 7pm - 8km
Monday: 6:30pm- Beginners and 5km
Wednesday: 6:30pm- 5-10km
Sunday (first Sunday of every month): 10:15am- varied distances 5-10km
Park runs
You may have heard of the infamous 5km park run that takes place rain or shine every Saturday morning, but what you may not know is that there are more than 380 park run locations world wide so you can be sure there is one near you. With locations at Bushy Park, Richmond Park, Guildford and many more. Every member receives a park run barcode which allows you to track your progress each week.
When and where?
For info on your nearest see parkrun.org.uk today.
Ashstead Running Group
If you fancy a smaller, more local community why not give the Ashtead Running Group (ARG) a go? It caters for all abilities and the sessions take place once a week for 40-60 minutes. This group is for those who fancy a bit of an adventure as ARG are not restricted to roads and explore the local terrain whatever the weather. Click here to find out more.
When and where?
Every Tuesday: 7:30pm, Meet at Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall Car park 15 minutes before.
