Learn to Run - 5km

Lace up your trainers and take on a new challenge with our FREE 10-week Learn to Run 5k programme!

It is designed for complete beginners or those returning from injury, and teaches techniques to help grow your confidence and stamina.

You will be supported by experienced and Active Lives Run Leaders who will offer encouragement and motivation every step of the way. As well as learning the basics of running, you will be part of a small group of like-minded individuals - a great way to make new friends and connections!

Running is a great way to keep active and can help you work towards living a healthy lifestyle. The benefits of running include improved physical fitness, mental toughness and social connection, and can help reduce the effects of stress. 

Please pre-book your space via the Myed events booking system. Bookings open on 1 January 2025. 

Who is it for?

The programme is open to our University of Edinburgh student and staff community and is designed for those who are new or returning to running. If you can comfortably jog for 30 minutes then why not try our new Learn to Run - 10km programme

Learn to Run - 10km

Why sign up?

  1. A ‘support team’ consisting of welcoming and supportive Active Lives Run Leaders.
  2. A FREE 10-week, progressive programme including 1 instructor-led session and 2 homework sessions per week. 
  3. Invitation to the online Learn to Run support group (TEAMS)
  4. To run and have fun!

Semester 2 sessions

Central Campus

Day Dates Time Meeting Point
Wednesday 22 January to 26 March 2025 17:00 - 18:00 Meet outside the entrance of the main University Library, George Square

I enjoyed the 10-week Learn to Run programme at Easter Bush.  At first I was a bit apprehensive as my fitness levels were well below par and I am very overweight after Long Covid.  I have tried to get back to running a couple of times and suffered injury or health setbacks so I wasn’t wholly sure I’d manage, and had really lost confidence in my ability to get fit again.  I have however managed to complete the programme, and can now pretty much jog for 5k reliably and know I can work for an hour without having to rest up for 3 days afterwards so I am extremely pleased.

Previous participant

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