Fun free and friendly beginners' groups in Berkshire

Zoe Campbell is West Berkshire Council's Physical Activity Coordinator.  She's had great success as Coordinator for Walking for Health in West Berkshire and the scheme has been awarded national accreditation.

Following on from this she has now set up and coordinates four Run England groups at Thatcham, Newbury College, Northcroft Leisure Centre and Park House School in Newbury.  There will also be training sessions for Race for Life under the This Girl Can campaign and running will feature as part of a Feelgood Fortnight from 11th-25th April in West Berkshire.

Zoe said, "Our walkers and runners have a great deal of fun, making new friends and getting to know their local area. Our schemes provide an ideal opportunity to be more active for free." 

Both the walking and beginners' running sessions are a great way to meet new people, make friends and enjoy the outdoors whilst improving your fitness. The weekly sessions on offer are fun, friendly and free of charge, taking place in parklands and open spaces.  They're suitable for complete beginners or those who've been inactive for a while – the only requirement is to wear comfortable clothing, turn up and join in.

Qualified coaches are on hand at each session to offer advice, support, feedback and to help you progress whilst you learn to adopt the best techniques for success.  Volunteer Coach roles are also available.

So if you would like to start running but don’t know how, try one of the links below:

• Click here to find out about meeting times and places
• If you don't live in West Berkshire, you can still find your local running group using the Run England Activity Finder website.
• Or find out about other opportunities to be more active in West Berkshire.