For many people, putting on a pair of trainers and running for fun couldn’t serve as a worse pastime. Why would anyone willingly put themselves through that? It is often seen as a solitary sport, where individuals put themselves through pain and less than ideal weather conditions simply to chase a PB, but running clubs are here to change that. On a personal level, running, and more specifically the people who take part in groups, have helped me deal with some of the hardest moments during my teenage years.
Clubs can be spaces for holding each other accountable for fitness goals and with many people starting it as a lockdown hobby they have also been labelled as the replacement for many dating apps. With no distraction from social media or day to day work routines, it is no surprise that there has been a surge in inadvertent match-making. Despite the red faces and out of breath conversation, running leans away from pretension or constructing images of ‘perfection’ or ‘flawlessness’, instead focusing on shared passions creating natural foundations.
‘Can I get your Strava?’
‘Your pace or mine?’
There are so many great running communities in Newcastle, with runs taking place practically every day of the week, including the university’s own NURC. The club meet every Monday and Thursday at 18.30 to share a social love of running, exploring the Toon at the same time. Activities range from long runs around the North East to the club’s Couch to 5k initiative for newer runners or those regaining confidence in running. Moreover, runners love a pint or a pastry, so there are many social opportunities with like-minded people too.
Getting started and running at your own pace, without need for validation and Strava competition can be hard, but I can assure you that it can be one of the most rewarding sports no matter your distance or your speed - everyone is welcome!
Here's is a link to get involved: https://nusu.co.uk/activities/view-society/161