I never thought it would happen to me!

I joined South Leeds Sisters about four years ago with zero running experience, having spotted groups of chattering, laughing women running around the streets of Beeston and Middleton. I thought “I would like to be a part of something like that”.  I didn’t think it was likely I’d be able to fit into a group as I had no running experience and hadn’t done any exercise for at least 25 (yes 25) years…but actually I couldn’t have been more wrong.

South Leeds Sisters has been going about five years now and has around 30 members of all ages, abilities and experience. Our Coach, Holly, plans each session carefully and lets us know the plan in advance. But it’s not just about running, it’s about encouraging and supporting each other while gaining agility, speed and stamina. We all loop back to the back person so everyone stays together.

We are a women’s running club based in the Phoenix Bar at the South Leeds Stadium (John Charles Centre for Sport) and we’re starting a “Zero to Hero” programme starting on Monday 5 February 2018. There are three sessions a week, Mondays for the planned sessions (that’s the night the course will run) – 6.15-7.45pm and Wednesday and Thursdays (6.15pm) when you get to want more. Everyone will be able to progress at their own pace. We travel the streets of Beeston, Middleton and Belle Isle and use Middleton Park and Cross Flatts Park in the summer.

For me, being part of the group has meant that turning up week after week is a pleasure. It gives me the chance to catch up with my running friends. As we run, we share running issues, swap hints about where is selling good gear cheaply (usually Aldi!) or wonder why our trainers are looking a bit muddy! I’ve found that running has unbelievably become a part of my life, and that I’ve had the chance to take part in or help with stewarding charity runs too, when I want. I never envisaged that happening but it has!

If you’re a women wanting something to keep you fit, maybe having failed to follow through with those dreaded New Year resolutions, join us! Even if you’ve never put on a pair of trainers and walked, let alone run, down the street. We want complete beginners! We were all beginners once so we know what it’s like.

There’s lots more info on our website www.southleedssisters.com or facebook page.

 

This post was written by Sally using our Create an article for South Leeds Life page.