Training

GCR believes that runners and joggers of all abilities should enjoy and be supported in their running, regardless of their goals or reasons for taking part. Regular training sessions are central to the club and suit every type of runner, speedy or not so. We welcome everyone, whether you are striving to improve, are training for a particular event or are content to maintain your current fitness level. One week you may choose to push yourself and another you may wish to do a steady sociable run. We try to cater for everyone. In the summer there are some lovely off-road running routes in the country around Tewin and Panshanger Park. In the winter the runs are mainly around Welwyn Garden City.

Take a look at our programme below and see which sessions suit you

Group Runs – Tuesdays 6.20pm for 6.30pm start, Dance Studio Ridgeway Academy

You can train with us in safety, with no-one left behind, and you’ll be amazed at the steady improvement you will make. These sessions would also be ideal for anyone training for events such as Race for Life and the many other organised races that take place in Hertfordshire and beyond.

The group runs are planned to take approximately an hour, the following table gives an idea of the pace.

To give variety, especially in the summer, distances will vary a little 🙂

Group/ DistancePace (mins/km)Pace (mins/mile)
5k SocialA gentle-paced run that would suit those who are still new to running, like a slower pace, are returning from injury or a break from running
7k7.30-912-13
8k7-7.3011-12
9k6.30-710-11
10k5.45-69-9.30
12k5-5.308-8.30

Intervals – Tuesdays 6.30pm Location emailed and posted to facebook each week

On Tuesdays at 6:30pm there is an interval session focusing on speedwork and improving race performance, the details of this are emailed and posted on Facebook a few days before.

Group Runs – Thursdays 6.30pm Gosling (summer)

5k Social A gentle-paced run that would suit those who are still new to running, like a slower pace, are returning from injury or a break from running
Introduction to speed sessionA training session for those who are daunted by the track. A mixture of intervals, fartlek and speed sessions. Ideal for those trying to improve their 10k time.
Steady group run A 5-6 mile run taking approximately an hour.

Track Session – Thursdays 8pm Gosling

These sessions start with a warm-up, with drills for mobilisation and flexibility, followed by intervals (fast bursts with jog recoveries), ending with cooldown and stretching. There are four groups based on pace and distance, each with a group leader, and all overseen by our chief coach.

For more information, please contact: gcr@gardencityrunners.org.uk

Sunday Run

A long steady run takes place every Sunday morning in the countryside and is usually between 8 and 12 miles . The time and meeting point is posted on Facebook.

HOW TO FIND THE SPORTS CENTRE AT RIDGEWAY ACADEMY

Garden City Runners are based at the Sports Centre at Ridgeway Academy.

Sports Centre
Ridgeway Academy
Herns Lane
Welwyn Garden City
Herts
AL7 2AF

The entrance to the Sports Centre car park is via Appletree Way, opposite Daniels, off Herns Lane. There are 45 parking spaces.

 

 Please note:
Do not use the laybys outside the Sports Centre. Use the school car park if sports centre is full.