‘Couch potatoes’ encourage each other to complete 5km

FIFTEEN runners have been awarded certificates for completing a 5km run after nine weeks of training.

The beginners completed the “Couch to 5km” programme with the Benson Striders on Saturday.

They were presented with their certificates at the Waterfront Café after tackling a route through Wallingford and Preston Crowmarsh. Julia Hayes, who founded the group, said: “It’s a fantastic achievement and they are absolutely delighted to get through it. It’s a great benefit to their health and happiness.

“You always get some people drop out but this year we had a bigger than ever intake. The next stage is a consolidation group at the 5km level or we will have another group to move to the 7kg or 8pk distance. They will be fully integrated into the running club.”

The course, which involved three sessions a week, began with walking and gentle exercise and gradually became harder as the participants became fitter. Mrs Hayes added: “They are from all walks of life – men and women of different ages – and motivated each other to get through the programme.”



Mrs Hayes said one of the reasons she started the club was to get more people exercising and making friends.

For more information, email bensonstriders@gmail.com or visit http://bensonstriders.weebly.com/blog