Meet the trainer: Time to Run

September 11, 2018

Meet the trainer: Time to Run

Meet the trainer: Time to Run

If you’re looking to develop your running technique and learn how to get better at running, then Time to Run could be the perfect course for you.

We spoke to Chris Shead, a registered run leader and coach, who leads the course to find out a little more about him and his course.

Tell us a little bit about your background, Chris?

I started running more often in about 2004 to help me meet my fitness targets for my career in the police.

I kept running as I realised the benefits of an improved planned running schedule and how it helped provide a good work/life balance.

I’ve benefited from many aspects of running and technique development, entering events up to half marathon and using running to develop a whole-body approach to fitness including yoga, swimming and bike.

I then started courses at Surrey Sports Park in April 2017, helping runners achieve their 5k and 10k goals.

What do you feel the benefits of running are?

You might start running simply to improve your fitness, or you might start running to improve your work/non-work balance.

Non-running athletes will find running helps them focus on specific strength and conditioning issues.

Other benefits of joining one of our courses include becoming part of a group of like-minded people, making the time and having the support to develop personal improvement goals, or having an excuse for a new pair of running shoes!

Whatever your fitness goals are, Time to Run courses will provide real benefits.

What are the end goals of our Time to Run courses?

Each course includes eight sessions, with a planned increase in challenge to help runners reach their targets.

Two courses are run, Couch to 5k helps people progress from a low running base to 5k, typically aiming for a Parkrun.

The 5k to 10k course speaks for itself really, it helps people who can already run 5k to reach 10k!

Each session is broken down into units, with a strong focus on warming up, practical running techniques and stretching to cool down. People who have never run before are amazed that good stretching prevents any aches and pains.

What happens during the course?

I plan each session to increase the challenge each week, and support individuals as personal strengths and weaknesses start to become clear.

Runners will become part of a WhatsApp group, this helps people share their running stories in between sessions and plan for each weekly effort.

Runners’ questions are quickly answered and tips on nutrition, recovery and kit are shared. I also provide individual advice where needed!

If you’re interested in getting better at running, then our Time to Run Courses are ideal.