Beginners Diary – Orchard Eagles Running Club

We all met for the first time and got our first session done.

This was the very first run, we kept it slow and steady. The focus was on getting moving, learning the routine, and letting the body adjust. Total time was 30m 45s, Total Distance 1.93mi

We started with a stretch's and a 5 minute walk to warm up. The main session was 1 minute of running followed by 1 minute 30 seconds of walking, repeated 7 times. We finished with a final 1 minute run, then a 5 minute walk to cool down, followed by stretches after the run.

Well done to everyone for showing up and giving it a go. Starting is often the hardest part, and that is already done. Keep turning up, keep it steady, and trust that it will get easier week by week.

Week 1 Session 2

Session 2 followed the same session as Session 1. We kept the same run and walk intervals and focused on staying steady and relaxed.

It was slightly colder, which made the first few minutes feel tougher, but everyone warmed up after the first 5 mins. The group kept going, stayed consistent, and got the session done.

Another solid run in the bank. Turning up again is a win in itself, and it all counts.

Week 1 Session 3

The weather was great for a morning session. We kept the same format as Sessions 1 and 2. We ran a few laps around the central area, which worked really well. It gave everyone the chance to stretch away at a pace that suited them, while still staying within a safe distance of the run leader, myself.

This session also marked the end of Week 1. The first week is often the hardest, both mentally and physically, and everyone pushed through it. A great effort from the whole group. Three sessions completed and a solid foundation laid.

Week 2 Session 4

We started with stretches before the run, followed by a 5 minute walk to warm up. The main session was 1 minute 30 seconds of running and 2 minutes of walking, repeated 5 times. We then finished with a final 1 minute 30 second run, followed by a 5 minute walk to cool down and stretches after the run.

This was the first step up from Week 1. The runs were a little longer, but everyone handled it well. Steady progress and another strong session completed.

Week 2 Session 5

The session itself stayed the same, but the conditions did not. Today was wetter with the rain, which made it a bit tougher. Even so, everyone performed really well and stayed focused from start to finish.

It was great to see the group turn up and put the work in despite the weather. That mindset matters just as much as the running. Another strong session completed.

Week 2 Session 6

Session 6 kept the same run again and took place in Preston Park.

The weather stayed cold, but at least the rain held off. The group settled into the routine well by now. Everyone knew what was coming and managed their effort from the start.

Another consistent session in the bank. Showing up, even when it is cold, is where the progress really happens.

Week 3 Session 7

We began with a 5 minute walk to warm up. The session then moved into longer efforts, with 1 minute 30 seconds of running followed by 3 minutes of walking, repeated through the set. We closed with a final 1 minute 30 second run and a 5 minute walk to cool down.

The cold is still hanging around and it definitely made itself known. But the group got on with it and kept moving.

It was also great to have support from Sarah Parvin who joined the session alongside the runners. Another step forward and more progress building each time we meet.

Week 3 Session 8

Session 8 followed the same structure again, with me leading the group.

And the temperature improved… from 4 degrees to a mighty 5. Almost tropical. A small change, but it felt a bit kinder once we got moving.

By now everyone understands the rhythm of the session. Effort is controlled, recoveries are used well, and confidence is growing. Another good run added to the week.

Week 3 Session 9

Rob led today’s session with support from Emma.

There was a great turnout, and the group settled into the run well. Having different leaders guiding the session brought a fresh bit of energy while keeping everything steady and familiar.

Another strong day for everyone who came along and put the work in.

week 4 Session 10

We warmed up with a 5 minute walk. The main set pushed things on again. We ran for 3 minutes, walked for 1 minute 30 seconds, ran for 5 minutes, walked for 2 minutes 30 seconds, then ran for 3 minutes. After that came a final 1 minute 30 second run, followed by a 5 minute walk to cool down.

It was a dry and crisp session. We used an out and back route, which helped everyone judge their effort and stay in touch with the group.

The running sections are getting longer now and you can see people stepping up to meet the challenge. Another real bit of progress.

Week 4 Session 11

took us back over the same route.

And it definitely felt different. Either the pace picked up or the distance stretched out a bit. Maybe both. What matters is the group is moving better, recovering well, and growing in confidence each time out.

A really encouraging session and a clear sign that the work is paying off.

Week 4 Session 12

Session 12 kept the out and back idea, but this time around Preston Park

There was a great turnout and it was a lovely morning to be out running. The group moved well, kept control of their effort, and looked comfortable on the longer sections.

It is exciting to know the structure changes each session next week. A new challenge is coming, and everyone is building nicely towards it.