Starting Out: Tips for Beginning Physical Activity
Starting Out Running
Some Groups for Support
Running (sounds better than jogging!) groups are a great way to learn a few tips and to run with others of a similar level.
In Christchurch these include:
Running Group, Pioneer Leisure Centre: Train to Run
* Duathlon * Triathlon * Fun Runs * Half/Marathons *
Do you need help with your running? You may already be running or just getting started but need some help to achieve your goals. This running programme will help you improve your fitness, your running style and will teach you how to map out your training programme.
For support, training advice and on-going motivation register now!
- $64 for an 8 week term.
- Day/Times: Tuesdays, 5.30pm. Pioneer Leisure Centre, Lyttelton Street, Spreydon. For bookings and enquiries phone 941 8888
The Frontrunner Running Group:
Group running sessions from the new shop at the corner of Colombo & Lichfield Streets, under the excellent guidance of Karen Muller from Fit For Life. Information sessions on a variety of topics.
- $30 annual membership includes t-shirt, shorts and discounts.
- Days/Times: 5.45pm-7pm Monday evening ; 12noon-1pm Wednesday lunchtime. Meet at the Frontrunner shop cnr Colombo & Lichfield Streets for a topical 10 minute information session followed by a run from the shop into Hagley Park.
Women's Group: Thursday Running Groups with Lou Connor and Barbara Millar
These Thursday running groups are for all women. It does not matter if you are just starting, or you have been doing a little, or you run regularly – the sessions are designed so that everyone can work at their own pace, and with others at a similar fitness level and ability. It is all about starting running, keeping running, meeting others and picking up tips along the way.
- The 'week 1' drill and exercise sessions are suitable for everyone - there will be options so you can work at your own pace. Remember it does not matter how fit you are, or how far you can run at present - you can do these sessions. The cost of this session is $5
- Day/Time: Thursday evenings 6pm–7pm at Old Rugby Club Rooms at Hagley Park. Go in the Armagh St Bridge gates into Hagley Park and meet at the old rugby club building just before the tennis courts on the right hand side. You can park in the main car park past the tennis courts. The gates are shut at 8pm.
- The 'week 2' group run will also be for all levels and will split into groups depending on fitness levels. The only thing we ask is that no one gets left behind to run/walk or jog on their own.
Any queries contact running@womenstri.co.nz or call Barbara on 027 271 9721
SUBculture "pods": Women's groups
Sarah Ulmer Brand has introduced the new SUBculture, this is a vehicle for women nationwide to train with other women, motivating you to train more and to meet like minded ladies. Motivated friendly ladies have been selected to be Pod Leaders around the country. Select your area and training type and you will see the different group options you have in your area. You can then just turn up or email the pod leader for more information.
Visit the website for more information.
Beginner Running Programme
This 30 day running programme is designed for both beginner and intermediate runners and will help you set realistic, achievable targets.
How Far Should I Run?
The "How Far Should I Run?" article explains how to safely increase your running distance without getting injured.
'How Far Did I Run?
The Map My Run website allows you to check up on exactly how long that run (or walk or cycle) was that you just completed! Type in the start address - or just "Christchurch" and a postcode will usually do - then choose your units (miles or km's). Use your mouse to plot the route and you'll find out the distance. It's quite easy (and fun!) once you get the hang of it.
Questions From Beginner Runners
The "Questions From Beginner Runners" was written to answer the most common questions asked by new runners, and by people returning after a layoff of at least a few years.




