9 Week Programme
Optional Goal: ParkRun Stevenage, Saturday 3rd June 9:00am
Have you always wanted to take up running and never had the opportunity or motivation to get started?
This Couch to 5K plan will help you gradually work up towards running 5km in just 9 weeks! This plan follows the popular NHS Couch to 5K progression, so you can listen along using the app available from your app store.
We’ve set the intervals up so you just have to check in to each session and go for it! We’ll be on hand to help support you through each workout.
As an added bonus, we will be encouraging you to join a number of Odyssey members and staff at our local Park Run on Saturday 3rd June to celebrate completing the programme, and perhaps your first ever running event.
The programme
Who is it aimed at
Our Couch to 5k programme is aimed at those who looking to either start running having had little or no experience, or those who are returning to running. This is a beginner’s programme designed to gradually build your running up to complete 5km.
Benefits of the programme
There are plenty of benefits from getting into running. For starters, it’s an easy way of improving your physical health.
Running requires little equipment, but a good pair of running shoes that suit your foot type may help improve comfort.
Running regularly will improve the health of your heart and lungs. It can also help you lose weight, especially if combined with a healthy diet.
There’s evidence it may help increase bone density in some people, which can help protect against bone diseases like osteoporosis.
There are also mental benefits of running. Taking on the challenge of Couch to 5K can help boost your confidence and self-belief, as you prove to yourself that you can set yourself a target and achieve a goal.
Running regularly can also be a great stress reliever and has even been shown to combat depression.
How to join the programme
Simply speak with a member of the fitness team who will assign the predesigned programme to your TGS key or mywellness account. We’ll also talk you through the progressions so you know exactly how the plan works, and how to modify it if needed.
parkrun Info
What is Stevenage parkrun?
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!
When is it?
Every Saturday at 9:00am.
Where is it?
The event takes place at Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG2 0BL. The meeting point is the bandstand area to the west of the start point; this is a large open area where the course brief will also take place. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! You will need to register directly with parkrun before you attend. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder) to the event. If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be?
All runners take part for their own enjoyment. Please do join in whatever your pace!
Speak to a coach today to start your Couch to 5k programme and join in our Ultimate Running Month!