Barnsley beginners walking to running in 8 weeks

Barnsley Mini Harriers is a Run England Group, and is part of England Athletics affiliated Club Barnsley Harriers. 

They've been holding a free 8-week walk to run course aimed at complete beginners and led by qualified Run Leaders Amanda West and Anita Fish as well as support from other experienced runners.  The course gradually introduces people to running and builds up to taking part in a 5k Locke Park fun run.

And participants have a lot of good to say about it all!

"I joined to build up fitness after injury, enjoyed the company and it is much easier to run with other people.  I've never laughed so much over the summer and I have fallen back in love with running plus made new lovely friends.  I am enjoying the races and achieving new goals in life."

"As I've never run before I decided to improve my fitness the walk to run group was excellent I was made to feel welcome from the start and made some good friends."

"Having started running in March this year I was struggling to keep up momentum on my own. Joining Mini Harriers in October has been a turning point for me. From the first evening where I felt immediately welcome I have enjoyed every kilometre that we have covered together. The amazing support and friendship from everyone in the group has made me believe that I can do it and I will do it."

"2015 was going to be my year, diet and exercise would focus heavily. I joined the mini Harriers by recommendation and have never looked back. Two of the best coaches you could have, fun, pain, laughter and tears twice a week, what more could a girl want! The journey continued and off we were sent to the big boys and girls! The umbilical cord was cut and we were off! I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Harriers, support, friendship and laughter is had each week. Thanks Amanda and Anita for helping me along my new journey"

"My friend began running with the harriers and tried to convince me that I too could join. I had never run in my life plus I was, and still am on the weighty side. But I decided to give it a go. I have to say it has been one of the most positive decisions I have ever made. I have met some really wonderful people who have supported me throughout this experience. I love the social aspect of running, it takes my mind off my job which can be quite stressful at times. I personally would recommend running with the harriers regardless of shape, size or level of fitness. They are so welcoming and will support you on your journey whatever your reasons are for running."

I have never been one for exercise, and the gym was too expensive and boring. I'd see people running I thought 'I wish I could do that.' After being recommended the walk to run group from an existing harrier I went to my first session and enjoyed every minute. Everyone was so friendly, supportive and made me feel at ease. Thanks to the group and the wonderful coaches, I'm so much fitter, have made some lovely friends.....and now I can run!"

The Club will be launching a new beginners programme in January 2016.