Bromsgrove District Council is launching a series of free Couch to 5K running courses across the district from Monday 14 September 2026. The nine-week programme is open to complete beginners and anyone looking to improve fitness and return to regular exercise.
All sessions are free and no advance booking is required. Participants can attend whichever session location suits them each week, or stick with one venue throughout the nine weeks. The programme is designed for ages 12 and upwards; children must have a guardian running with them at all times.
What is Couch to 5K?
Couch to 5K is based on the nationally recognised NHS initiative and aims to build confidence, fitness and wellbeing. Sessions are delivered by qualified Run Leaders accredited through England Athletics. The recommendation is to complete three runs each week to maximise progress and work towards running 5K continuously.
Cllr Shirley Webb, Portfolio Holder for Health & Wellbeing, Leisure and Culture, said: "Our Couch to 5K programme continues to be a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to become more active. It's wonderful to see residents gain confidence, improve their health and achieve goals they may never have thought possible. Keeping the programme free and accessible helps ensure everyone has the chance to get involved."
After the Programme
Many participants who complete Couch to 5K go on to join local running groups and community events, including Parkrun. The programme has also developed a number of local Run Leaders who now support future participants through their own Couch to 5K journeys.
How to Get Involved
For more information, contact Sports Development on 01527 881404 or email sd@bromsroveandredditch.gov.uk. Sessions begin week commencing Monday 14 September 2026.
