Make Time To Run And Talk
Let's run at the speed of chat to support this mental health initiative...
When the clocks changed on Sunday 27 October 2024, did you focus on the opportunities of the lighter, brighter mornings or the earlier gloom of the evenings? In other words, are you a glass-half-full or a glass-half-empty type of runner?
Coinciding with the clock change this year is England Athletics' Run and Talk programme, supported by the mental health charity MIND, with the national RunTogether organisation taking the lead role in promoting #RunAndTalk week from Monday 28 October to Sunday 3 November 2024.
The national digital campaign #RunAndTalk aims to encourage people to run (or walk) one mile or further while chatting with friends, family, colleagues, or other runners. This can be done any time and at a location of their choice, or by joining in one of the organised runs at an England Athletics affiliated club or RunTogether running group.
England Athletics plans to use the catalyst of the #RunAndTalk week to expand its network of volunteer Mental Health Champions and Mental Health Ambassadors to all 1,750 affiliated clubs and 3,400 RunTogether groups.
#RunAndTalk is also extended to many schools, universities, other organisations, and informal groups who are encouraged to welcome new or regular runners to break down the mental health stigma and to spread the positive message about running together. The initiative is supported by the mental health charity MIND, which is there to ensure no one has to face a mental health problem alone.
Science tells us that running releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins in the brain, which produce the so-called 'runner's high'. Coach Alan on the runABC Newsdesk reckons it's the triple F-factor: Fresh Air, Friends, and Fun!
Whatever it is, we all want more of it, and we want to share the feeling with others. So round up your buddies and drop the pace to make space for a #RunAndTalk run this week.
This short video by England Athletics sets the scene.....
You can find your nearest RunTogether group here...
Photo and video courtesy England Athletics #RunAndTalk promotion
