Inspired by the Great North Run? Join our virtual Couch to 5k group!
If you felt a bit emotional hearing Local Hero at the start of this year’s Great North Run you wouldn’t be alone. Perhaps next year you’d like to be part of the crowd taking off while the iconic song plays, or perhaps you’d like to get a little fitter or healthier after a difficult 18 months. Following the Couch to 5k plan might be the perfect first step.
Taking up running can seem like a scary prospect, especially if you feel out of shape or unfit. But did you know that regular running can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, boost your mood and keep your weight under control?
The NHS Couch to 5K plan is designed to get you off the couch and gradually work you up to running 5K or for half an hour, in just nine weeks. It’s a proven and supported plan that’s suitable for most people, whether you’ve never run before or want to get back into being more active and it’s completely free.
CNTW are running a virtual Couch to 5k group through Strava, where you can log your runs and receive support and encouragement from others running alongside you. The next cohort begins on 27th September, meaning you’ll finish up by December, ready to start to festive season with a new level of fitness. All you need to do is sign up here: https://www.strava.com/clubs/894435 and download the NHS Couch to 5k app or podcasts here: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/couch-to-5k-week-by-week/
The CNTW Strava group is open to all employees at all fitness levels and we welcome any members of staff who want to help build a positive and supportive fitness community.