Hello, my name is Jack Sparrow. I'm a 50 year old self-employed Pirate from the Caribbean. Starting running inspired 27-year-old Joey to set up a social running group for women in Newport. Here she tells her story of how she has helped motivate other women to join her �
In January last year I found my tribe, my place, and surprisingly it was in an online running club � and not the pub!
I first started running �properly� � three times a week - in January 2016, thanks to an online Couch to 5k programme. I�d previously taken part in several Race for Life events but never trained for them and never really felt like there was a place for me in running. I took the Leadership in Running Fitness course and now I am a Run Champion and Blogger for Run Wales.
At the first session, I was terrified! I was so worried no one would turn up and that it would be a complete flop. When the ladies arrived they were just as worried as me, but it was all very natural. It had appealed to a lot of them because it had been promoted as a group for women-only and for all shapes, sizes and abilities. I�ve since heard stories from members who have been laughed at in the gym and this is why their previous attempts to get more active have failed. This is the reason this type of session really appeals to them.
I�ve had several ladies going from walking a 5k to being able to run it in a sub-40 time. There's ladies who couldn�t walk the distance who are now starting to run it in intervals. The best part is seeing their confidence grow. When they first come along, ladies always say �I can�t run� or �I�m really slow.� After a few weeks they�re going out during the week to supplement sessions and motivating each other.
I always try to make sure the sessions are relaxed and informal. The majority of ladies I get are mothers and this is their �me� time so it needs to be enjoyable for them. As soon as ladies realise that you are �normal� too they feel more comfortable. During the first session I don�t tell them what distance they�ve covered until the end and they�re always surprised at their own ability.
I am so passionate about women in sport - we are stronger than we even know. We can do and accomplish things we haven�t even dreamed of yet. So, find your tribe, whether it be your local run group, an online running club, your neighbour or your work colleagues. Find them and show the world what we can do!
Read Joey's blog at http://irun.wales/category/Joey/
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