FAQs about Longford Striders RunTogether Coventry

What’s the Difference Between a Running Club and a RunTogether Group?

A running club is usually a more formal, membership-based organisation, often affiliated with England Athletics. Clubs may have annual fees, structured training sessions and the option to take part in races, teams and club championships. Many clubs are now more inclusive and welcome runners with social or personal fitness goals, not just competitive ambitions.

A RunTogether group like Longford Striders is different. We focus on community, friendliness and support, with sessions designed for all abilities. There is no membership and no pressure, just a safe and enjoyable way to get active with qualified leaders and a welcoming group.

Some people use a RunTogether group to build confidence before joining a club, some enjoy both, and others simply like the relaxed and social feel. Everyone is welcome to run with us, whether you are new to running or already part of a club.

Do I need to be a member of Longford Striders?

No, you do not need to be a member. Longford Striders is a RunTogether group, so there is no membership or long-term commitment required. It is simply book on and run. Everyone is welcome, whether you already run with another club or just want to join a friendly local group.

We ask that you are physically able to take part safely. Full details of each run, distance, pace and route are available in the session description. If you’re unsure whether a session is right for you, feel free to get in touch and we’ll help you decide.

Can I just turn up and run?

No, we ask that all runners book onto our training sessions in advance. As a formal organised group operating in line with England Athletics guidance, we need to know who is attending each session. This is important for safety, insurance purposes, and to ensure we have appropriate health information and emergency contact details in place for everyone attending.

What ages can take part in Longford Striders sessions?

We welcome runners from 12 years old and above to take part in Longford Striders sessions.

All participants aged 12–17 are legally classed as children under safeguarding law and England Athletics policy. Parental or guardian consent is required for all runners under 18, and no under-18 may attend without a signed consent form.

You can find our consent form HERE.

Participants aged 12–15 must have parental or guardian consent and must also be accompanied throughout the session by a parent or legal guardian aged 18 or over. The accompanying adult remains fully responsible for them at all times.

Participants aged 16–17 must have parental or guardian consent. They may add their own signature to confirm understanding, but a parent or guardian signature is still required in every circumstance.

All under-18s are covered by the England Athletics Child Safeguarding Policy.

All sessions are delivered by qualified leaders who hold an England Athletics coaching licence or the appropriate Run Leader qualification.

Do I need to be fast to join a session?

No. Everyone is welcome, whether you run regularly or are getting back into it. Our main group runs at around 10 to 13.5 minutes per mile, with loopbacks and short recovery stops so everyone stays together. The leader moves throughout the group to make sure nobody is left behind.

We also have options for those who want to go a little quicker, and a run/walk group using a 4:1 minute ratio. If you’re new to running, our Couch to 5K course is a great way to start.

What if I’m not sure I’m ready yet?

If you’re unsure, send us a message and we’ll happily help you decide if now is the right time, or suggest a beginner-friendly option. We understand that starting or returning to running can feel daunting, and we’re here to help you build confidence at your own pace.

Our Couch to 5K courses run throughout the year and are ideal for beginners or those returning to fitness.

Where do you meet?

We meet at Longford Park in Coventry, using the Windmill Road entrance next to the basketball courts and changing room blocks.

Postcode: CV6 7BE
What3Words: inspector.jazz.broad

Please arrive a few minutes early to meet the leaders and join the pre-run safety brief.

What should I bring or wear, and can I wear headphones?

Wear comfortable running shoes suitable for road, park, or light trail surfaces, clothing appropriate for running and the weather. We recommend reflective gear in darker months. Bring a small water bottle if you like, and most importantly, a positive attitude and a willingness to have fun.

For safety reasons, we ask that headphones aren’t worn during group sessions. England Athletics encourages full awareness of your surroundings, and being able to hear instructions, traffic, and other runners helps keep everyone safe and connected. Please note: If you have specific sensory needs, please let the group leader know prior to the start so an appropriate, safe management plan can be agreed.

What happens at a typical session?

After a short welcome and warm-up, the group heads out for a planned route around the local area. Runs include loopbacks and short recovery stops so everyone stays together. Each session lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down.

Longford Striders also holds a monthly coached session led by our qualified coach, Stuart Sahan, suitable for all abilities. These sessions include technique work, drills, and confidence-building exercises to help runners progress at their own pace in a supportive environment.

I have a health condition. Is it okay to run with you?

When you book onto a run with Longford Striders, you’re confirming that you are fit and well enough to take part. If you have any medical concerns or a health condition that might affect your ability to run safely, it’s best to check with your GP before joining. If you have a condition such as asthma, diabetes or anything that requires medication, please bring it with you (for example an inhaler or glucose gel) and include the details in the Health Information section when booking. Your Run Leader will have access to this information through the ClubSpark app and will chat with you (in a confidential and discreet manner) before the session to make sure everything is managed safely for you and the group.

We take all reasonable steps to look after everyone’s safety during our sessions, but please remember that running is a physical activity and you take part at your own risk.

What if the weather is bad or a session is cancelled?

If a session ever needs to be cancelled due to weather or safety, we’ll post updates on our RunTogether page and social media as soon as possible. Please check before travelling if conditions look uncertain.

I feel ready to join an England Athletics affiliated running club. What advice would you give?

Look at what’s local, when they train, and whether that fits your schedule. Most running clubs offer a free trial period, so go along to a few sessions, meet the members, and see where you feel at home. The best club is the one that feels right for you. Take a look at out Running Clubs page for a list of clubs in your area.