Run Kent group leader workshop proves popular

A workshop for group leaders set up by the Run Kent Project in partnership with Run England and Kent County Council’s Sport & Physical Activity Service attracted 28 local group leaders recently.

The workshop – which was free-of-charge – was run by Sarah Russell, group leader at ‘Sarah’s Runners’ running group and coach at Tunbridge Wells Harriers, and Sam Palmer, coach at ‘Sevenoaks Ladies Joggers’ and Director of PeakSkills First Aid Training.

The workshop covered a range of topics including: handling mixed ability groups; safety out on the road; warm up drills and cool down stretches; running technique with simple yet effective tips and advice; and the importance of core stability – with everyone participating in a fun fitball session at the end!

Kent Running Activator Lucy Tomlinson said: “These workshops are a great opportunity for group leaders to get together and share ideas and experiences. The Run Kent Project has hosted a number of workshops over the last 12 months and they’ve all proved hugely successful. We’re fortunate to have such experienced coaches like Sarah and Sam who are willing to share their best practise and expertise.

“The workshops are just one way of how we support our Run Leaders in Kent.  It’s our way of helping them to develop their skills and knowledge so that they continue to do such an amazing job at encouraging more people to get into running!”

Here’s what some of the group leaders had to say after the workshop:

• “Excellent Workshop. Very informative” – Sam Lloyd, Cranbrook Joggers
• “Great sessions. Some really useful information and tips” – Neil Hacon, Sittingbourne Striders
• “Absolutely brilliant workshop, thank you for all the advice and great tips” – Julia Moen, Cranbrook Joggers
• “As usual a really enjoyable workshop. Very informative and interesting” – Claire Sexton, Meopham & Malling Ladies Joggers
• “Very well organised & informative workshop in a great venue” – Alan Probert, Maidstone Harriers
• “Really enjoyed the workshop especially the FitBall session!” – Lisa Hudd, Mojo Runners
• “A great workshop all round. The drills for improving technique were very useful” – Kenza Bownan,The Blister Sisters

If you’d like to get involved in the Run Kent Project or join your local running group in Kent, please contact Lucy Tomlinson at lucy.tomlinson@kent.gov.uk or visit kentsport.org/run. Follow @GetKentRunning on Twitter.

If you live elsewhere, head to runengland.org/groups to find your nearest registered running group!