Start here

Beginners'
Course

Take your first steps into running with Ware Joggers.
No experience needed — just show up.

Sign up Ask a question
Two Ware Joggers members stretching together at Wodson Park track

Your photo goes here

Recommended: 800 × 640 px
Tuesday mornings Starting 6th October 2026 at Wodson Park, 9:15am
Qualified coaches England Athletics–qualified, with club members running alongside
Gradual progression Walk–run intervals up to 50 minutes continuous running
No one left behind Comfortable pace, full support throughout every session
Our next Beginners' Course
A daytime course, starting mid-October and running weekly until just before Christmas.
6th October 2026 Start date
9:15am Tuesday mornings
£45 Total course cost
22nd September 2026 Apply by
One of the ten weeks falls during October half-term — a remote, guided session will be offered that week if needed.
Apply for this course

About the course

If you've ever thought about starting running but felt unsure or nervous, you're not alone. The Ware Joggers Beginners Course is designed for people who are new to running, returning after a long break, or simply lacking confidence.

The course runs for 10 weeks and gradually builds you from short walk–run intervals to around 50 minutes of continuous running. Everything is done at a comfortable pace, with no pressure and no one left behind.

You'll be supported by an England Athletics–qualified coach, as well as experienced Ware Joggers members who run alongside the group throughout. Each week includes a simple theme covering pacing, confidence, recovery and motivation.

"You don't need to be fit or fast. Many people who join feel exactly the same way at the start."

What's included for £45

  • 10 weeks of structured, coach-led sessions
  • Ware Joggers membership until 31st March 2027
  • A red Ware Joggers training top, given at the start of the course (hopefully printed with your name!)
  • Free entry to the Summer Mid-week League and winter Cross Country races
  • Eligibility for discounted Wodson Leisure Centre membership — around 50% off

The membership and top alone cover most of the course cost.

£45 total

What you need

There's no need for expensive or specialist equipment. As this is a daytime course, you won't need hi-vis or a running light — just comfortable kit to get started. We'll send practical advice before the course begins.

Running trainers
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
A water bottle

Between sessions, two short guided independent runs each week help you build confidence at your own pace.

Meet your course leaders

Caroline Stephens
Beginners' Course Leader

Caroline Stephens

I joined Ware Joggers Beginners programme in 2013 hoping to find a form of exercise I actually enjoyed! With the support of Ware Joggers I completed the course and found a love for running but I found far more than fitness, the club is such a welcoming, supportive community. My passion is supporting people of all abilities at the start of their running journey, taking new runners from zero to 50 minutes continuous running is rewarding.

Nicola Tilley
Beginners' Course Leader

Nicola Tilley

As an older mum juggling work, life and a young family, I know how hard it can be to find time for exercise. My love of running began in my early 40s after having my first child, having previously worked for many years as a personal trainer specialising in women's fitness and pre/post-natal exercise. Before joining Ware Joggers I ran beginner groups through the Herts Sports Partnership's Moving Mums project, and I loved supporting people who never thought they could run through to completing a 5k. I'm excited to bring that same passion to the next Ware Joggers beginners' group.

Both Caroline and Nicola hold current UK Athletics Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) qualifications, and Nicola also holds a Coach in Running Fitness (CiRF) qualification.

Common questions

No. The course is designed for complete beginners and those returning after a break. Many people start with little or no running experience. Everything progresses gradually and at a comfortable pace.

That is completely normal. The sessions are structured for beginners and no one is left behind. You will have support from qualified coaches and experienced club members throughout.

At the end of the 10 weeks, our aim is to support beginners for a further four weeks, helping you integrate into the club's regular Tuesday Track sessions. As this depends on coach availability, it isn't always possible to commit to the full four weeks on Tuesday evenings, but the goal is always to help bridge the gap into regular club sessions. Some people stay with the club, others continue independently. There is no pressure either way.

Missing the occasional session is not a problem. We can provide the session plan so you can complete it in your own time.

Just running trainers and comfortable clothing. As this is a daytime course you won't need hi-vis or a running light. We'll send full kit guidance before the course starts.

One of the ten weeks falls during October half-term. If you'd rather not attend in person that week, we can offer a remote, guided session instead so you don't fall behind.

You can sign up directly via Membermojo. If you have any questions first, email beginners@ware-joggers.co.uk — we're very friendly and happy to help before you commit.

Ready to get started?

Our next Beginners’ Course starts on 6th October 2026. Places are limited, so please apply by 22nd September.

If you’re thinking about joining but aren’t quite sure, don’t worry - the course is designed for complete beginners and anyone returning to running. Just sign up below to reserve your place.

Sign up Ask a question first