As a Coach in Running Fitness, affiliated to UK Athletics, I am passionate about the sport of running and the benefits it brings to our physical and mental wellbeing.

I started running as a teenager but, like many, I was distracted by ‘life’ (I even played Women’s Rugby for a while) returning to it in recent years in an effort to get fit. In fact, it was a desire to do the London Marathon in my fortieth year that provided the motivation; I duly completed the event (what an experience) in 2014. Although I am a member of an athletics club and compete for them in the cross country season, I would have loved to have joined a recreational running group (I know how it feels to be at the back!), so I thought I would start my own!

Having been a teacher for fifteen years, I have experience in methods of cajoling, encouragement and support; indeed one of the highlights of my career has been enthusing children to take up running. It really is an activity that anyone can do: all you need is a pair of trainers, a little bit of determination, and you’re off!

Since launching walkers2runners in 2016, I have met some truly inspirational women and men, and am so proud of all that they have achieved, whether it be walking, jogging or running our local parkruns at Bedgebury and Hastings, completing the London Marathon or simply turning up to sessions, come rain or shine. The group is also so much more than just a running club: we meet for coffee after every Friday session; have had some great birthday and Christmas socials; have taken part in various fun runs and have branched into open water swimming, kayaking and even singing!

The hardest step to joining a group is the first; once you have done so, you’ll never look back! Lace up those trainers, take a deep breath and give it a go – I promise you won’t regret it!

I look forward to welcoming you to walkers2runners!

Rachelx