Couch to 5k success is a life changer for runners
EVERY Saturday morning around 200 runners take part in a fun, free 5K run around Astbury Mere in Congleton.
On Saturday, January 21, their numbers were swelled by four recent graduates of the latest Couch to 5K (C25K) course organised by Macclesfield Harriers and Athletic Club.
Lucy Lawn, Sinead Musgrave, Karen Smith and Michael Smith showed just how far they have come in just a few months. All four new recruits improved on their previous Congleton parkrun times.
In total, 26 Harriers ran the 5km (just over 3 miles) route with three loops around the scenic mere.
For many Harriers, taking part is about fun and friendship, as well as improving fitness and well-being.
Other members are more competitive. Louisa Whittingham, fastest female at the latest Congleton parkrun, really enjoys her racing and runs for the Harriers cross-country team and also competes in track and field events. Peter Goodfellow and Aadi Whitlock, who both set new personal bests at the Congleton parkrun, also compete in junior cross-country races and track and field events.
And last Saturday, the Congleton parkrun was a chance for all members to gain points in the club’s Road Race Championship – an informal challenge with the best six races over the year to count. Points could mean prizes, even for beginners. There is a handicap trophy for the most improved runner and in theory anyone can win.
The club runs several Couch to 5K courses each year for novice runners. The course starts off with brisk walking and small amounts of running.
At the end of the course, the plan is to be able to run 5km without needing to stop. There is lots of support from leaders and other participants in a friendly and sociable environment.
Karen Smith said: “Some, like me, had dabbled some years ago and some had never run but we all had the desire to improve our health and well-being and hopefully make friends along the way.
“This really is a lifechanging/ enhancing/ transforming process and we, the C25Kers, would like to thank the Harriers, leadership team and all the helpers for their time and for introducing us to the community of runners.”
A new nine-week C25K course will begin on Thursday, April 6 at the clubhouse behind Macclesfield Leisure Centre.
Please contact c25kcourse6@gmail.com if you wish to join the course.