Get into jogging with new training campaign

The Derbyshire wide network of local jogging groups, led by qualified, volunteer Jog Leaders, are running special eight-week jog/walk programmes with free ‘First Steps to Fitness’ training plans.

There are more than 20 beginners’ groups starting across Derbyshire including four sessions in the Dales.

They include:

Darley Dale - Bright Ideas - First Steps to Fitness. Sundays at 8.30am from Sunday, January 26 at Darley Dale pre-school, Station Road. Contact Catherine Bright or Kate on 07960 010924. Charge - £2.

Matlock - Walk, Jog, Run - First Steps to Fitness.Mixed ability from absolute beginners to intermediate level. Park based.Thursdays at 5pm from January 23 at Hall Leys Park in Matlock. Contact Marie Widerman (07805 895979) and Becky Bryan. Sessions are free of charge.

Chatsworth Park - Tryumphany Trotters. Absolute beginners. Saturdays at 11.30am from January 25 at Chatsworth Park - meeting at the estate offices car park (DE45 1PJ). Contact Becky Lynne (07855 943236) plus co-leaders. Charge - £2

Youlgrave - Jog Youlgrave for Absolute Beginners. Saturdays at 10.30am from January 25 at Youlgrave Scout Hut. Contact Pete Tapping on 01629 636625. Sessions are free of charge.

Jog Derbyshire project manager Cathy Rooney said: “Our groups are especially set up for people who haven’t been physically active before or for a while - we have a lovely gentle introduction to jogging.

“Not only do you get fit but also they are really sociable groups and you get out and meet new people in your community. All of our groups have qualified leaders.

“You won’t start running straight away - they’ll take you gradually through a gentle run/walk training programme that’s designed for you.”