The joy of running comes from the experience itself, not just the pace.

Skelmersdale Running Club believes being a slower runner doesn't mean you're any less of a runner. Everyone has their own pace, and the most important thing is to enjoy the activity and stay consistent. Here are some tips for slow runners:

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1. Embrace Your Pace: Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and progress comes with time and dedication. Embrace your current pace and focus on gradual improvement. We offer a range of groups to cater for most paces. 

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2. Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals that are based on your current fitness level and pace. This could be running for a certain duration or distance, rather than focusing solely on speed.

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3. Practice Patience: Progress takes time. Celebrate even small achievements and improvements in your running, and don't get discouraged by comparing yourself to others.

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4. Use Intervals: Incorporate walk-run intervals into your training. For example, alternate between running for a set time or distance and walking for recovery. As your fitness improves, you can adjust the intervals. We offer Monday night interval sessions. 

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5. Focus on Endurance: Instead of speed, work on building endurance. Gradually increase your running duration or distance over time to build cardiovascular fitness.

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6. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels. If you're feeling fatigued or experiencing discomfort, it's okay to take breaks or ease up on your pace.

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7. Include Cross-Training: Engage in other forms of exercise, such as cycling, swimming, or strength training, to improve overall fitness and support your running progress.

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8. Proper Warm-Up and Cool Down: Make sure to warm up before your runs with dynamic stretches and cool down afterward with gentle stretches to prevent injury. Our England Athletic LiRF run leaders can guide you through a RAMP warm-up. 

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9. Run-Walk Method: Consider using a run-walk method, where you alternate between running and walking. This can help you cover longer distances while managing fatigue. If you need to walk we will gladly walk with you. 

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10. Find Support: Join us and find a buddy with our club who will offer support and encouragement, advice, and motivation.

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11. Work on Form: Focus on your running form, as good technique can help you become a more efficient runner. Proper posture, foot strike, and arm movement can make a difference.

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12. Celebrate Every Step: Celebrate each run and every milestone you achieve. Every run you complete is a step forward on your running journey.

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13. Rest and Recovery: Adequate rest is essential for any runner, regardless of pace. Give your body time to recover between runs to avoid burnout and reduce the risk of injury.

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14. Your achievements are best shared: Skelmersdale Running Club will be their throughout your journey to share with you, your moment of crossing the finish line.