Start September off on the right (or left) foot

The latest round of FREE Couch to 5k courses are due to start this month across the borough.

The nine-week course is designed for absolute beginners, so whether you've never run before, or you want to get back into being more active, Couch to 5K is an easy way of getting fitter and healthier.

This programme is for new runners from the ages of 12 upwards, please note children will need to have a guardian running with them at all times.

Anyone that wants to ditch the couch and start running are welcome at any session, you don’t need to book, and sessions are completely FREE! Starting Monday 1st September 2025:

  • Mondays 7:30pm - The Abbey Track
  • Wednesdays 7:30pm - The Abbey Track
  • Friday 9:30am - Batchley Pond, meet by the play park

Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Recreation, Cllr Juliet Barker Smith, said: “It’s never too late to have a go at something new, and I’m finding, especially in later life, keeping fit and staying flexible is absolutely essential!”

“Giving residents across the borough the opportunity to get active, pick up a new hobby, and become part of a community is fantastic. We are continually grateful to all the Run Leaders who volunteer to facilitate these sessions which consistently prove popular.”

The weekly sessions are led by Run Leaders who hold official qualifications from England Athletics and provide a course which is fully endorsed by the NHS.

You can mix and match which session you attend each week or attend the same session consistently, it's up to you. The advice is to try and complete the session 3 times a week to build up your fitness and achieve the end goal of running 5K.

Many graduates from local Couch to 5k groups go on to join local running groups including Parkrun. Over the last few years, we have helped to develop many Run Leaders who are now part of the scheme.

A thank you goes out to all our run clubs, STARS Redditch, Redditch Community Runners, and Kingfisher Harriers for their continued support.

For more information see Couch to 5K or contact Sports Development on 01527 881404 or sd@bromsroveandredditch.gov.uk.


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