RUNNING IN A GROUP BUILT MY CONFIDENCE

Name: Linda Stoyle
Age: 56
Role: Runner, RunTogether West Berkshire

Linda Stoyle wanted to set herself the challenge of getting fit before she got ‘too old’ to achieve the activity goals that she believed she was capable of. Having previously downloaded the Couch to 5k (C25K) app, but not having the confidence to go out running by herself, Linda saw an advert for her local RunTogether group in Berkshire and went for her first session.

Filled with trepidation and not expecting to be able to run for longer than a minute, Linda was welcomed into the group and made to feel like a runner from the get-go.

“Since that first day, my confidence has improved 200%. I would never have felt comfortable sharing my life and story, and would have preferred to hide in the background. Running has improved my life in so many ways – I am more confident, have improved self-belief, and have made lots of new friends. My weight has decreased, fitness has increased, life improved and my body shape completely changed.”

With the support of the RunTogether Run Leaders, Linda feels gratified that she could overcome her insecurities and completed the Blenheim Palace 10K earlier this month in 1 hour 15 mins. With the group being mixed ability level, the leaders spread themselves out so that no one ever feels left behind. Linda adds: “You always feel part of the group as all are so friendly and all abilities are catered for. The way I see it, if I can do it, anyone can!”