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Race Listing for Berkshire

About the area

Active clubs include Windsor, Slough & Eton AC, Maidenhead AC, Datchet Dashers, Burnham Joggers, Marlow Striders and Wargrave Runners.

And there's a growing Run England group presence which is an ideal setting for those new to running who want a gentle introduction.

Lots of great running routes too with plenty of opportunities to get out there and enjoy the countryside - Burnham Beeches, Great Windsor Park and along the River Thames are just a few of the many locations the county has to offer.

There's a comprehensive calendar of events from 5K to ultra-marathon - Reading half marathon is the 'daddy' - the big March race is a focus for many local runners' winter training and it's a great occasion with 12,000 plus participants.
parkrun, the weekly free timed 5K event, is well-established at both Slough (Black Park Country Park) and Reading (Thames Valley Park) and 200 plus 'aficionados' regularly turn out on a Saturday morning for the 9.00am start.

The Thames Valley is also home to a busy triathlon scene, with numerous events, including the Windsor Triathlon and various events at Dorney Lake.

Focus on Wargrave Runners

Where and When: All sessions meet at the recreational ground car park. There are two improvers/experienced groups which meet on Saturday/Sunday mornings at 8.15am. 4-5 miles on the Saturday and 8-10 on the Sunday. Saturday’s run involves a regular route between Wargrave and Crazies Hill. There is also a beginners/improvers session on Saturdays at 9.00am. Catering for those walk/running and those who wish to run a shorter distance than the earlier group. Mondays and Wednesdays at 6.30pm are all abilities sessions for anyone who wishes to go for a midweek run with a group for typically 3 to 6 miles.

Who: We pride ourselves on being a social running club for members of all ages and ability and we are always pleased to welcome new members.

Any races: We organise the Wargrave 10K which was held on June 12. This year’s race was started by Paul Daniels who took time out of his busy schedule and braved the rain to enthusiastically cheer all 518 runners on their way as they crossed the start line.

Anything else: Located in the heart of the Chiltern Hills and close to one of the most famous stretches of the River Thames, Wargrave Runners have a fabulous stomping ground! Club members range from international athletes to casual weekend joggers, the club embraces the aspirations of all members whatever level they wish to participate at. Regular outings throughout the week, groups of all different abilities run along breathtaking routes where it is often difficult to believe you are only 35 miles west of central London! From the very youngest to the most senior runner all share a passion for their sport whilst actively encouraging their club colleagues to achieve. Most importantly the club promotes the enjoyment of running  within a sociable environment where training partners become good friends.

Running groups in Berkshire

Running groups are aimed at beginners and those whose emphasis is on fun and fitness rather than races and competition, letting people run in a safe and friendly environment, building up a camaraderie with fellow runners.

Run England is England's body for recreational running, with groups all over the country meeting weekly. They organise 5K beginner courses and groups who just run for fun.

• Run with Benson Striders (Checkendon)
• Run with Crowthorne Running Group
• Run with Reading Active Parks Jogging Club
• Run with Get Active Running Club, Maidenhead

Run With Cookham

Where and When: Saturday morning (9.30) at Station Hill Deli and Tuesday evening (7.00) from Station Road.

Group leader: Peta Bee

Under the umbrella of the Run England scheme this running group in the Berkshire village of Cookham meets twice a week to help people kick off their running career and, once there, to maintain it! The main aim being to encourage beginners and returning runners alike to find their feet and take off along local footpaths and trails.

There is a real emphasis on fitness and fun, the runs are highly sociable with group members often meeting for coffee and cakes in the local deli after a run. Group Leader Peta Bee says: "This group is not intended for greyhounds in lycra who like to race along to the beep of a heart rate monitor."

With meetings twice a week and a relaxed approach to training - the Cookham group (pictured above) could be just what you need to find the motivation and inspiration to get up off the sofa and out on the road.

Services in Berkshire

Taking good care of yourself is a must for every runner, but what happens when you don't quite stetch enough and pull a muscle, or don't see that stone and put your back out? How should you plan your eating for that marathon coming up? There's a whole host of specialists dedicated to putting runners back to rights if you have a mishap, or need some guidance...

Lisa Wilkinson Sports Therapist

www.lwsportstherapy.co.uk

Flexible working hours - available morning to evening to fit in with your schedule.

About Lisa

• A regular runner herself having completed 14 marathons, including London, New York and Berlin, Lisa understands the needs and requirements of tired muscles!
• Lisa set up her own practice in 2005 just outside Reading and has helped a number of clients with sports related injuries such as pulled muscles, tired or over training and IT band syndrome to clients with bad backs, stiff necks, sciatica or piriformis syndrome.  She now has a growing clientele because of many personal recommendations.

The Lisa Wilkinson Approach

• The practice is based on the belief that customers’ needs are of the utmost importance and Lisa is committed to meeting those needs.
• Qualified in Sports Massage, Nutrition, Anatomy & Physiology, Fitness & Exercise Techniques, Diploma in Hot Stones Therapy & Diploma in Advanced Massage Techniques.
• Fully insured and a member of The Sports Massage Association, MHFST (Member of Holistic Federation of Sports Therapists) and CNHC (Complementary and Healthcare Council).

Do you operate a service for runners in the Berkshire area? If you'd like to be added to our list please get in touch with us!

Services for runners in Berkshire

Sports Massage

• One Physiotherapy, Reading

Physiotherapy

• One Physiotherapy, Reading

Podiatry

Please contact us and we will include details of your service

Personal Training

Please contact us and we will include details of your service

Nutrition Advice

Please contact us and we will include details of your service

If you offer a service to runners in the Berkshire area and would like to be added to our list of providers please get in touch.