New year, new you!

A running group based at the Bradford Royal Infirmary Staff gym is offering a New Year beginners’ running course.

Starting on Monday, 9 January 2012, the course will offer a structured 10-week programme aimed at getting you from couch to 5k in 10 weeks.

The group is the first NHS running group (non NHS staff welcome!) and has been going from strength to strength, currently boasting 25 members and this new initiative is perfect for those who are planning to get fit as a New Year’s resolution.

It began back in April, is organised by group leader Louise Clarkson who supports and encourages those new to running.

Louise said: “Eighteen members of the group took part in the Leeds Abbey Dash 10k run on Sunday 20 November, most group members have been running for six months however some only joined the group 10 weeks ago - all of them starting out as non-runners. Finishes ranged from an impressive 51 minutes to a commendable one hour 32 minutes.

“The aim of going to the race was for members of the group to receive recognition for what they had worked so hard to achieve. From non-runners to being able to take part in such a huge organised event is such an achievement. I knew they could all run the distance but it was more about confidence.”

Next year the group will be working towards the even loftier targets of the Leeds Half Marathon in May and the Bupa Great North Run later on in the year.

The group are also aiming to collectively run 2012 miles from January to July to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Games and the NHS Challenge.

“My aim is to improve the fitness and health of staff and for them to see the benefits of taking part in group physical activity,” added Louise. “The group consists of all ages, sizes and abilities, but is non-competitive, supporting and encouraging.

“When I approach people to see if they are interested in joining the group, the common response is ‘I can’t run’ but everyone can run – it’s just about approaching it in the right way with a proper structured programme. 

“I had the very same conversation with all of the current group members and now look at them – they are an inspiration to us all!”

Group sessions are held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5.15pm to 6.15pm, setting off from the Bradford Royal Infirmary staff gym.

For further information please contact Louise Clarkson on 07973 189563/383519.