It’s 7pm. I’ve just finished a long and stressful day in the office. It’s freezing. The rain is torrential and it’s blowing a gale. I’m standing shivering with a group of “athletes” waiting to embark on a sprint through gloomy city streets. I begin question my sanity when I not only volunteered for it, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
If you haven’t already joined a club, then you will have probably toyed with idea since you first donned your running shoes. With companionship and improvement in performance – you know it makes sense. Once you’ve caught the “runners’ bug”, signing up should be a no-brainer. But then you line up at a race surrounded by a gang of whippet-thin zombies in matching vests and your confidence is thrown and replaced by intimidation. Well, have no fear. Nowadays running clubs are far more diverse – not only in terms of members’ ability, but also in their attitude to running. Of course there’s always going to be a squad of “fast boys” or the “elite team”. But there are more of the just-for-fun runners and plodders. It’s isn’t just a domain for serious athletes. And there isn’t a club in Scotland that wouldn’t welcome new members.
I swayed with the idea of joining a running club for years. I used every excuse under the sun. Not enough time, too busy at work, too slow or I prefer to run alone. But when I bit the bullet (after sitting nervously in my car for half an hour) and turned up for the first session, I’ve never looked back.
Ask any club runner what they have gained for joining and they will rhythm off a list of reasons. Here’s a few if you need convinced to sign on the doted line.
The benefits
Performance boaster: This will be top on the list for all recruits. Join a club and you’re pretty much guaranteed to shave chunks off your recent times. Scheduled training sessions, personal training plans, knowledgeable advice, speed work and healthy competition will all help you on your way to a new personal best.
Kenny Richmond of Bellahouston Road Runners said “I started out with jogging to keep fit, but quickly got bored. I joined the club four years ago for some company whilst out running. The structured training and competitiveness during sessions has improved my running significantly”. Kenny now runs 32min 10Ks and 2:31 marathons.
Competition: This is particularly strong if you know your fellow runners, as you will have set your sights on beating some of them. Don’t deny it. Even the non-victory hungry runner can stir a latent competitive streak triggered by running in the company of others. A little competitiveness can drive you further and really improve your performance.
“Above everything, I enjoy the competition within the club” said Kenneth Stewart of Perth Road Runners. “Not only is there friendly rivalry amongst club member during training and races, there’s also the rivalry between local clubs – something I had not experienced when I was unattached”.
Camaraderie: Boxing gloves aside, camaraderie and support are a key plus factor. All club runners share the same common goal – to be they best they can be and possibly even enjoy the process.
Even if you enjoy the personal space of solitude running, it is great to hook up with others once a week or so for a group run. You may also find running friends who you can join up with outside of club sessions. The support of others is particularly valuable to relieve the boredom factor on long runs or to keep you going during tough sessions.
Support: Not only is there the support to get round a gruelling training session, there’s usually someone to cheer you on during a race. And possibly scrape you up at the end.
Caroline McDermott has been a member of Gala Harriers for two years. “I started running to lose weight, and I found that I really enjoyed it. After running by myself for a year, I met some girls from the Harriers who encouraged me to join and run with like-minded people. It took a while to pluck up the courage to go, but I’ve never looked back. I am not their fastest runner and never will be, but joining a club and training "properly" has enabled me to improve my speed. There’s also the friendships you make, the support you get from when you're down or having a bad session plus the appreciation of your efforts when you've had a good run”.
Top advice: Forget paying loads for personal training. Most runner clubs have a network of experienced coaches, who can provide you with structure and analysis to your training. Little tips on your technique, such as ‘lift your head’, ‘unclench your fists’ or ‘loosen your shoulders’ are invaluable – and without someone knowledgeable watching, are likely go unnoticed and uncorrected. And if you’re entering a race, a coach can advice you on types of sessions to include in your weekly schedule to maximise your performance.
Susan Harper joined Penicuik Harriers last year: “The club training involves speed sessions and hill reps and has added another dimension to my running. Although they aren't in the least bit easy, everyone manages to have a laugh. Members are very supportive, and the coaches are always on hand to help out with any queries and training suggestions. I’ve managed to knock four minutes off my 10K time, which definite proves that the club has helped my running significantly.”
Good value for money: Actually it’s great value for money. Most annual memberships range from £10 - £100. What a bargain! All that guidance and wealth of knowledge - for next to nothing. The alternative would be to pay £50 per month on an over-priced, under-used gym membership. For an extra value perk, when you sign up to your local running club you’re more likely to get discounts at your local running shops.
Something for everyone: Most clubs are a real mixed bag of ages and ability. Some will moan if they have to run over six miles, whilst others are marathon veterans. Most clubs have “packs” which divide members according to their ability and speed. Everyone is made to feel part of a group and no one is left behind.
Neil Campbell of Carnegie Harriers said: “You’ll be joining group of like-minded people - who all enjoy running and are supportive of others - to help you grow and develop into areas you might never have thought about getting involved in. Clubs are for everyone, not just elite runners. We have a wide range of ages and abilities. All that is required is that you love to run”. Neil now competes in marathons, hill races and ultra-marathons.
Variety is the spice of life: Structured training schedules are a mix of sessions, which vary in distance and pace. Unless you’re very self-motivated, solitude runners often have a tendency to run the same routes at the same speed regardless of the distance - with no variation in gradient and terrain. Running with a club means that the routes will be more diverse. Forget you’re usual set circuit – your club miles are more likely to take in scenic trails, rolling hills, river paths, mystical woods and delightful country tracks. And if you’re running with others you’re less likely to get lost if you go off the beaten track. Unless you’re in my pack. My lack of direction is the best source of adventure in my life.
Feeling a little Wanderlust? Your running shoes can take you anywhere. Well, packed inside your suitcase of course. Not only are there fabulous races on your home soil, but most major cities hold road races. Whether your fancy a sprint round the Eiffel Tower in the Paris Marathon, 26.2 across the North Pole, the Himalayan 100m race or Barcelona’s San Silvestre New Year’s Eve 10K there’s always and excuse to combine a holiday with a race. And there will always be someone willing to chum you along.
Safety in numbers: This is particularly important for winter running, isolated locations and female runners. There are also people to guard you from unleashed dogs and the local neds - when they start pelting you with abuse and snowballs.
Social networking: It’s not all about running. There’s lots of fun too. Graham Macnab of Lochaber A.C. "Although I benefit from the motivation and enjoyment I receive from training and racing with like-minded individuals, I really enjoy socialising with them too. We all compete to improve personal performance and represent the club, so the camaraderie before, during after races is great. The social aspect of the club is very important and results in a lot of fun at various sporting and non-sporting events."
From summer barbecues, post-race karaokes, curry nights and Christmas ceilidhs there will always social outings on the calendar. Throw in some running for good measure and there are training weekend breaks, fancy dress fun runs, relay races and racing holidays. Through blood, sweat, tears and like-minded interests you will meet life-long friends. They will see you at your worse, listen to your tales of injury woes and cheer you up when you need it. Running clubs aren’t without their romantic possibilities (and scandal) too.
“Running became much more fun when I joined Kinross Road Runners” said Judith Dobson. “I met lots of supportive people who gave me encouragement to take on new challenges and improve my running. The club coaches organise training sessions and it's easier to motivate yourself train with a group plus the long Sunday runs seem to pass quickly when you've somebody to chat to. The main benefit from joining is the friends I have made”.
Wealth of information: Running clubs are a great source of local knowledge – from who’s the best physiotherapist or sports masseur in the area, to challenging running circuits and scenic trails or which local races are best for PBs
Community spirit: Most running clubs are organised and attended by local people, so you can part of your local community – and possibly give a little back. Raise the profile of the area with locals races and fund raising events. Stuart Aitken of Wee County Harriers said. “Anyone who stays in Alloa (wee county) knows someone in the Harriers. We are a small club with about 35 members of varied experience and ability. We’re a close, friendly bunch with a strong social spirit. There is gruelling weekly training sessions and long runs on Sunday – which usually end with tea and toast in the local sports centre.”
Team player: You don’t need to worry about what to wear on race day, as your club vest (and shorts if you’re brave) will be practically uniform. You’ll feel proud to be wearing your club colours. The downside to this is pressure to succeed if you’re seen in a club vest.
Fashion parade: Worry not about what to wear on race day. On the other hand, worry lots about what to wear to club training. Forget an old sweatshirt and tatty tights. You can’t blend in to the night, when you’re running with 50 people. There’s more pressure to turn out with matching ensembles and the latest gadgets. Thank heavens for discounts at local running stores.
A real runner: I know this is a little shallow, but for me the psychological shift that allows you to call yourself ‘a runner’, rather than someone who runs is well worth the annual membership. I know, I’m a running snob. I’m ashamed to say that I analyse every runner I see on the road and mentally characterise them as a ‘real runner’ or ‘novice’ according to their gear. And before you all tut, I bet you do it too. I’ve even got my passengers playing the game.
To summarise the benefits John MacDonald of Scottish Athletics said: “Running clubs provide runners with the expertise, motivation and structure to develop their abilities safely. All Scottish Athletics affiliated running clubs have qualified coaches to help runners create their own personal training programmes, encourage them to stick to these and monitor their development to reduce injury risks. Membership of affiliated clubs also opens up opportunities to compete in league events and team championships”.
The benefits are plenty, but for the sake of balance, I better give you the flipside.
Firstly, for anyone with an unpredictable work schedule, the infinite convenience and flexibility of running is the key attraction. This is what will have lead you to training predominantly on your own - when it suits you. Running clubs have set training times and sessions, which might not fit into to your daily work or family life. The good thing is, you don’t need to go to all training sessions. Even once a week or a few times a month will help your performance and keep you motivated. You don’t even need to race if you don’t want to. You can do a little or as much as you want. Just remember, what you put in is what you will get out.
Being part of the running “cult” may also effect your social interaction with the rest of society. Marco Consani of Garscube Harriers commented: “I’ve lost so much weight that my arms look like matchsticks hanging out my club vest. All I talk about is running and I hobble more than walk. I can’t drink more than four pints without becoming a gibbering idiot and there are frightening pictures floating about the internet. My toes look like they belong to a frostbitten mountaineer and I have friction burns in places that have never seen the light of day. I have spent more money on running shoes than the economy of small country and I think it’s normal to prance about the streets in a pair of tights. That aside, joining a running club is the best thing I have ever done. It changed my life forever..for the better.”
Finding the right club: There will probably be more that one running club in your area, so be choosy. It’s worth contacting a member to answer any question you may have or trying out a few training sessions before committing. Then you get an idea of members’ ability, how busy or friendly it is and whether your own level will be catered for. Some clubs may have a hill-running focus, for example, while others are more road-running friendly. Some are fanatical about their position in the league tables and want to recruit new members who are willing to race regularly, while others end every week’s training session with a few beers.
Scottish Athletics has a directory of nationwide affiliated running clubs. (Contact 0870 145 1500 or visit www.scottishathletics.org.uk). But that isn’t to say that non-affiliated groups, such as one operating out of your local gym, aren’t worth a try. Women might consider checking out the sociable and beginner-friendly Women’s Jogging Network, which operates female-only running groups. Jogscotland is a great way of starting out for people with little or no running experience. Groups all over the country offer a warm welcome to joggers of all ages and stage. For further information, vist www.jogscotland.org.uk.
Still not convinced? You don’t even need to run with a registered club. Go out with groups from your gym, friends or workplace. The main thing is you get out there and have fun. And running with others can add to the enjoyment.
If you haven’t already joined a club, then you will have probably toyed with idea since you first donned your running shoes. With companionship and improvement in performance – you know it makes sense. Once you’ve caught the “runners’ bug”, signing up should be a no-brainer. But then you line up at a race surrounded by a gang of whippet-thin zombies in matching vests and your confidence is thrown and replaced by intimidation. Well, have no fear. Nowadays running clubs are far more diverse – not only in terms of members’ ability, but also in their attitude to running. Of course there’s always going to be a squad of “fast boys” or the “elite team”. But there are more of the just-for-fun runners and plodders. It’s isn’t just a domain for serious athletes. And there isn’t a club in Scotland that wouldn’t welcome new members.
I swayed with the idea of joining a running club for years. I used every excuse under the sun. Not enough time, too busy at work, too slow or I prefer to run alone. But when I bit the bullet (after sitting nervously in my car for half an hour) and turned up for the first session, I’ve never looked back.
Ask any club runner what they have gained for joining and they will rhythm off a list of reasons. Here’s a few if you need convinced to sign on the doted line.
The benefits
Performance boaster: This will be top on the list for all recruits. Join a club and you’re pretty much guaranteed to shave chunks off your recent times. Scheduled training sessions, personal training plans, knowledgeable advice, speed work and healthy competition will all help you on your way to a new personal best.
Kenny Richmond of Bellahouston Road Runners said “I started out with jogging to keep fit, but quickly got bored. I joined the club four years ago for some company whilst out running. The structured training and competitiveness during sessions has improved my running significantly”. Kenny now runs 32min 10Ks and 2:31 marathons.
Competition: This is particularly strong if you know your fellow runners, as you will have set your sights on beating some of them. Don’t deny it. Even the non-victory hungry runner can stir a latent competitive streak triggered by running in the company of others. A little competitiveness can drive you further and really improve your performance.
“Above everything, I enjoy the competition within the club” said Kenneth Stewart of Perth Road Runners. “Not only is there friendly rivalry amongst club member during training and races, there’s also the rivalry between local clubs – something I had not experienced when I was unattached”.
Camaraderie: Boxing gloves aside, camaraderie and support are a key plus factor. All club runners share the same common goal – to be they best they can be and possibly even enjoy the process.
Even if you enjoy the personal space of solitude running, it is great to hook up with others once a week or so for a group run. You may also find running friends who you can join up with outside of club sessions. The support of others is particularly valuable to relieve the boredom factor on long runs or to keep you going during tough sessions.
Support: Not only is there the support to get round a gruelling training session, there’s usually someone to cheer you on during a race. And possibly scrape you up at the end.
Caroline McDermott has been a member of Gala Harriers for two years. “I started running to lose weight, and I found that I really enjoyed it. After running by myself for a year, I met some girls from the Harriers who encouraged me to join and run with like-minded people. It took a while to pluck up the courage to go, but I’ve never looked back. I am not their fastest runner and never will be, but joining a club and training "properly" has enabled me to improve my speed. There’s also the friendships you make, the support you get from when you're down or having a bad session plus the appreciation of your efforts when you've had a good run”.
Top advice: Forget paying loads for personal training. Most runner clubs have a network of experienced coaches, who can provide you with structure and analysis to your training. Little tips on your technique, such as ‘lift your head’, ‘unclench your fists’ or ‘loosen your shoulders’ are invaluable – and without someone knowledgeable watching, are likely go unnoticed and uncorrected. And if you’re entering a race, a coach can advice you on types of sessions to include in your weekly schedule to maximise your performance.
Susan Harper joined Penicuik Harriers last year: “The club training involves speed sessions and hill reps and has added another dimension to my running. Although they aren't in the least bit easy, everyone manages to have a laugh. Members are very supportive, and the coaches are always on hand to help out with any queries and training suggestions. I’ve managed to knock four minutes off my 10K time, which definite proves that the club has helped my running significantly.”
Good value for money: Actually it’s great value for money. Most annual memberships range from £10 - £100. What a bargain! All that guidance and wealth of knowledge - for next to nothing. The alternative would be to pay £50 per month on an over-priced, under-used gym membership. For an extra value perk, when you sign up to your local running club you’re more likely to get discounts at your local running shops.
Something for everyone: Most clubs are a real mixed bag of ages and ability. Some will moan if they have to run over six miles, whilst others are marathon veterans. Most clubs have “packs” which divide members according to their ability and speed. Everyone is made to feel part of a group and no one is left behind.
Neil Campbell of Carnegie Harriers said: “You’ll be joining group of like-minded people - who all enjoy running and are supportive of others - to help you grow and develop into areas you might never have thought about getting involved in. Clubs are for everyone, not just elite runners. We have a wide range of ages and abilities. All that is required is that you love to run”. Neil now competes in marathons, hill races and ultra-marathons.
Variety is the spice of life: Structured training schedules are a mix of sessions, which vary in distance and pace. Unless you’re very self-motivated, solitude runners often have a tendency to run the same routes at the same speed regardless of the distance - with no variation in gradient and terrain. Running with a club means that the routes will be more diverse. Forget you’re usual set circuit – your club miles are more likely to take in scenic trails, rolling hills, river paths, mystical woods and delightful country tracks. And if you’re running with others you’re less likely to get lost if you go off the beaten track. Unless you’re in my pack. My lack of direction is the best source of adventure in my life.
Feeling a little Wanderlust? Your running shoes can take you anywhere. Well, packed inside your suitcase of course. Not only are there fabulous races on your home soil, but most major cities hold road races. Whether your fancy a sprint round the Eiffel Tower in the Paris Marathon, 26.2 across the North Pole, the Himalayan 100m race or Barcelona’s San Silvestre New Year’s Eve 10K there’s always and excuse to combine a holiday with a race. And there will always be someone willing to chum you along.
Safety in numbers: This is particularly important for winter running, isolated locations and female runners. There are also people to guard you from unleashed dogs and the local neds - when they start pelting you with abuse and snowballs.
Social networking: It’s not all about running. There’s lots of fun too. Graham Macnab of Lochaber A.C. "Although I benefit from the motivation and enjoyment I receive from training and racing with like-minded individuals, I really enjoy socialising with them too. We all compete to improve personal performance and represent the club, so the camaraderie before, during after races is great. The social aspect of the club is very important and results in a lot of fun at various sporting and non-sporting events."
From summer barbecues, post-race karaokes, curry nights and Christmas ceilidhs there will always social outings on the calendar. Throw in some running for good measure and there are training weekend breaks, fancy dress fun runs, relay races and racing holidays. Through blood, sweat, tears and like-minded interests you will meet life-long friends. They will see you at your worse, listen to your tales of injury woes and cheer you up when you need it. Running clubs aren’t without their romantic possibilities (and scandal) too.
“Running became much more fun when I joined Kinross Road Runners” said Judith Dobson. “I met lots of supportive people who gave me encouragement to take on new challenges and improve my running. The club coaches organise training sessions and it's easier to motivate yourself train with a group plus the long Sunday runs seem to pass quickly when you've somebody to chat to. The main benefit from joining is the friends I have made”.
Wealth of information: Running clubs are a great source of local knowledge – from who’s the best physiotherapist or sports masseur in the area, to challenging running circuits and scenic trails or which local races are best for PBs
Community spirit: Most running clubs are organised and attended by local people, so you can part of your local community – and possibly give a little back. Raise the profile of the area with locals races and fund raising events. Stuart Aitken of Wee County Harriers said. “Anyone who stays in Alloa (wee county) knows someone in the Harriers. We are a small club with about 35 members of varied experience and ability. We’re a close, friendly bunch with a strong social spirit. There is gruelling weekly training sessions and long runs on Sunday – which usually end with tea and toast in the local sports centre.”
Team player: You don’t need to worry about what to wear on race day, as your club vest (and shorts if you’re brave) will be practically uniform. You’ll feel proud to be wearing your club colours. The downside to this is pressure to succeed if you’re seen in a club vest.
Fashion parade: Worry not about what to wear on race day. On the other hand, worry lots about what to wear to club training. Forget an old sweatshirt and tatty tights. You can’t blend in to the night, when you’re running with 50 people. There’s more pressure to turn out with matching ensembles and the latest gadgets. Thank heavens for discounts at local running stores.
A real runner: I know this is a little shallow, but for me the psychological shift that allows you to call yourself ‘a runner’, rather than someone who runs is well worth the annual membership. I know, I’m a running snob. I’m ashamed to say that I analyse every runner I see on the road and mentally characterise them as a ‘real runner’ or ‘novice’ according to their gear. And before you all tut, I bet you do it too. I’ve even got my passengers playing the game.
To summarise the benefits John MacDonald of Scottish Athletics said: “Running clubs provide runners with the expertise, motivation and structure to develop their abilities safely. All Scottish Athletics affiliated running clubs have qualified coaches to help runners create their own personal training programmes, encourage them to stick to these and monitor their development to reduce injury risks. Membership of affiliated clubs also opens up opportunities to compete in league events and team championships”.
The benefits are plenty, but for the sake of balance, I better give you the flipside.
Firstly, for anyone with an unpredictable work schedule, the infinite convenience and flexibility of running is the key attraction. This is what will have lead you to training predominantly on your own - when it suits you. Running clubs have set training times and sessions, which might not fit into to your daily work or family life. The good thing is, you don’t need to go to all training sessions. Even once a week or a few times a month will help your performance and keep you motivated. You don’t even need to race if you don’t want to. You can do a little or as much as you want. Just remember, what you put in is what you will get out.
Being part of the running “cult” may also effect your social interaction with the rest of society. Marco Consani of Garscube Harriers commented: “I’ve lost so much weight that my arms look like matchsticks hanging out my club vest. All I talk about is running and I hobble more than walk. I can’t drink more than four pints without becoming a gibbering idiot and there are frightening pictures floating about the internet. My toes look like they belong to a frostbitten mountaineer and I have friction burns in places that have never seen the light of day. I have spent more money on running shoes than the economy of small country and I think it’s normal to prance about the streets in a pair of tights. That aside, joining a running club is the best thing I have ever done. It changed my life forever..for the better.”
Finding the right club: There will probably be more that one running club in your area, so be choosy. It’s worth contacting a member to answer any question you may have or trying out a few training sessions before committing. Then you get an idea of members’ ability, how busy or friendly it is and whether your own level will be catered for. Some clubs may have a hill-running focus, for example, while others are more road-running friendly. Some are fanatical about their position in the league tables and want to recruit new members who are willing to race regularly, while others end every week’s training session with a few beers.
Scottish Athletics has a directory of nationwide affiliated running clubs. (Contact 0870 145 1500 or visit www.scottishathletics.org.uk). But that isn’t to say that non-affiliated groups, such as one operating out of your local gym, aren’t worth a try. Women might consider checking out the sociable and beginner-friendly Women’s Jogging Network, which operates female-only running groups. Jogscotland is a great way of starting out for people with little or no running experience. Groups all over the country offer a warm welcome to joggers of all ages and stage. For further information, vist www.jogscotland.org.uk.
Still not convinced? You don’t even need to run with a registered club. Go out with groups from your gym, friends or workplace. The main thing is you get out there and have fun. And running with others can add to the enjoyment.
