We get lots of questions from people who want to know more about Ramsbottom Running Club, so we’ve compiled the most common ones all in one place. Here’s everything you need to know about Ramsbottom Running Club!
When and where do you meet?
We meet on a Tuesday at 6.50pm outside the station in Ramsbottom (postcode BL0 9AL) and on a Wednesday at 7pm at the athletics track at Marl Pits in Rawtenstall (postcode BB4 7SN).
Do I have to join before I come along?
No! We hope that people like our club and want to become a member, but you’re also very welcome to run with us as a visitor, lots of people do. If you do want to join, here’s the link to our membership form.
How much does it cost?
Our weekly club sessions are £1, and our Coached track sessions are £2. These subs help to keep our volunteer-led club thriving, for example by training new run leaders and paying for safety kit. You can pay by cash or card / contactless.
Do you run every week?
Most weeks! We have a short break in the summer and at Christmas so our volunteers can have a well-deserved rest. Occasionally the weather makes it impossible to run together (we don’t like ice!) … keep an eye on our socials (especially Facebook and Insta) where we’ll post if we do have to cancel for any reason.
Do I have to book, or let you know before I come along for the first time?
No, just turn up! When you arrive at the station (or the track) please look out for our volunteers who’ll be wearing a yellow vest so you can identify them. They’ll take some emergency contact information from you, just in case, and explain where to go and what to do.
How fast do I have to be?
You don’t have to be fast at all. We have sociable runs which go at a pace where you can chat and move at the same time, and stretch runs which might go a bit quicker and stop less often. Our volunteers will help you take part in a way that works for you.
If you are fast, you’re also very welcome, and the same applies.
What sort of runs do you do?
We offer a range of routes every Tuesday, depending on the availability of our volunteer run leaders. These include a jeffing session (run-walk intervals) and road runs at a range of distances from 5KM to 10KM plus. We also offer a trail run option as often as we can.
What pace do you run at?
We run at your pace. All of our runs are front and back marked by volunteer leaders and no one is ever left behind. When you come along for the first time we can share that evening’s routes so you can choose the best run for you. Your run is always your choice, we don’t tell you which group to go in.
Do you cater for complete beginners?
You’re welcome to join our jeffing group. Jeffing is a run-walk interval technique made popular by Jeff Galloway. Our jeffing group does a walking warm up, followed by a two-minute run and a ninety second walk. This group is perfect for people running for the first time or returning after a break or an injury.
We have previously run Couch to 5K courses. If we’re able to offer similar in the future we’ll advertise them via our socials, please follow us for more info.
What do I need to bring?
You’ll need comfy clothes and shoes. We have a short briefing at the station before we set off, and all of our runs muster to make sure that everyone stays together. Layers can help you stay warm!
In the winter we ask that you wear something bright (high vis) and bring a head or chest torch. If this would prevent you from taking part, let us know as we can loan you the right kit. It’s always confidential.
Our volunteer run leaders carry emergency kit, but in the summer you might want to bring a drink.
I’ve signed up for a race (10K, half marathon, marathon) and need to get ready, can you help?
Yes! Our volunteer run leaders are all experienced runners, and at any one time we always have members who are training for events. Come along to club night and talk to us about your plans, and we’ll help you find the right group for you. If you choose to become a full member of the club you’ll get access to our friendly Facebook and WhatsApp communities, including a group for marathon trainees, for even more support.
I’ve seen people wearing t-shirts, buffs and other cool kit. How can I get some?
Being able to buy our club kit is one of the perks of membership of RRC. Once you join we’ll share the links so you can get your hands on the ramouflage, it’s like our tartan!
