Beginners

We understand that starting your running journey may seem a little scary. It really isn’t like that.

We welcome runners of every ability. You can join at any time with running groups and structured training sessions available to all runners.

However, if you’re returning to running or a complete newbie, you might want to join our Beginners Courses. Taking place once or twice a year, these 10 week programmes take you from non-running to be able to run 5km in a controlled and safe environment and include:

Structured 10 session course with England Athletics (EA) accredited coaches and run leaders
Support from coaches, clubmates and similar new runners
On completion of the course, you'll get a free Somer training top PLUS you get a year's free club membership giving you money off at Somer weekly training sessions, as well as stores, websites and running events.

Begin your running journey with us - our winter 2026 course begins on Tuesday 6th January - book now. We meet at Norton Hill School at 7.15pm and each session lasts about an hour.

Book Now

*After following the booking link you will need to register on ClubPal our club management system. You will then be given the option to purchase our Beginners pass.

All attendees will require a high viz reflective bib. If you don't have one these are available in our club store here (which you can access after registering). Any orders will be given out at the first session in January.

Running however safely organised, carries a certain amount of risk. All activities are voluntary and undertaken at your own risk. If you have a pre-existing medical condition that you think may place you at an increased risk when running please seek medical advice before signing up. If you're new to, or significantly increasing your level of, exercise you may also wish to seek medical advice.

What our beginners say...

"I joined beginners to get back into running after a long time off. With such a friendly bunch I went on to join as a member and have continued improving my running"

Hana - Beginners 2023

"Such a welcoming, encouraging and non-judgemental club...even when I occasionally use a rude word!!"

Vikki - Beginners 2024

"The Beginners Group built up my

confidence and helped me massively

improve my running whilst meeting a

great bunch of people!"

Zoe - Beginners 2025

"I felt welcomed and supported right from the start and can't believe how much I've achieved in such a short time period. Love being part of the team :)"

Patrick - Beginners 2025