Couch to 5K 2026

Start 2026 with a bang by joining the 2026 edition of our popular C25K program.

January 2026 will see the return of our hugely popular Couch to 5K pogram, specialy developed for those who have never ran before or for those who ran when they were younger and now wish to return to the sport. This is also good if you're considering joining our Senior Group but think that you might not be good enough and want to first test the water in a beginners group. Our last program was fully booked in just two weeks

The Group will train over a 12 week block from January 6th until April 2nd with a Graduation 5k on held April 4th supported by all the other athletes at the club.

When each program ends you are welcome to join our clubs main Senior Group - if you can run 5k, you will be good enough to join!

Our club is a friendly and welcoming environment. We have well established welfare procedures and safeguarding policies in place. We are also a registered Menopause Friendly Club. All coaches are fully trained and qualified and are members of the PVG scheme.

So, How does it work?

Start!

We start on Tuesday 6th January 2025! Meeting at the YMCA Hall in Larkhall at 6pm.

Sessions will be scheduled for 6pm-7pm every Tuesday and Thursday.

We will be on a small course next to our hall to begin with so you will never be more than 500m away. As your confidence increases we will venture a little further afield.

Follow the Plan

For the next 12 weeks we'll be following the plan running 2 times per week as a group and once per week on your own - this is your homework!

We will build you up gradually walking and running until you can run for long periods of time without stopping to walk.

The plan allows your body time to adapt and if you stick to it, you will be able to run 5k by the end.

Big Finish!

At the end of your 12 weeks we'll all head down to Strathclyde Parkrun for your lap of honour where you will run your timed 5k and be cheered around the course by members of Larkhall YMCA Harriers other groups!

We aim for this to be held on Saturday 4th April 2024 so make sure you clear your diary on this day!

Bring your family and friends down to support too!

What's Next?

Completed the course and wonderig whats next?

You dont need to stop running!

At the conclusion of this program you will be fit enough to join in with our main Senior group. Come along and pay as you go. If after a month you like it, you'll be invited to take out a membership to make it official and join Team Larkhall!

Still interested?

Here's all the details you need to know.

When is it?

Sessions will be held 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We'll also off occasional free Saturday Sessions. Please be at the club ready to run 10/15 before so we can check you in / pay etc and breif you on the nights session.

Where do we meet?

We meet at the Larkhall YMCA Hall, 33 Caledonian Road, Larkhall. Here you will find bathrooms, and free sanitary products. You can leave any bags etc here too.

Where will we run?

All training will be held in Larkhall and initially we will be sticking to a 1k loop right outside the YMCA hall. This means you will never be further than 500 metres from the hall. It also means that you are on a short loop and as the group stretches you cannot be "left behind". As you start to get fitter and more confident we will start to venture a little further, but always within Larkhall.

How much does it cost?

We charge £2.50 per session on a pay as you go basis and accept cash and card payments. If you prefer you can pay the full amount in advance (£60) - This is a good way to keeo you motivated! The money from this is reinvested into the club to train new Jog Leaders and purchase things like t-shirts for the group. It also helps us maintain our premises.

What do I need?

Nothing fancy. Comfortable trainers and clothing for running in. You can get fairly cheap but suitable clothing from places like Sports Direct who do the Karrimor Range. Just make sure you have clothing which is suitable for the weather. We will be running rain or shine!

One compulsory piece of equipment is something High Viz / Reflective, either a jacket or top. You must wear this for safety reasons. Things like head/body torches are also great but are not compulsory.

Do I need to Register first?

Yes. We expect this to be over subscribed and will have to cap the numbers for safety reasons. Therefore you will need to register using the link below. Once your place is confirmed we will also ask you to register for Parkrun which is free and will allow you to do your graduation 5K!

What do I do when it ends?

You be offered - and will be good enough - to join our main clubs senior section. We have a wide range of ages and abilities and you'll fit right in! They train on the same days between 7-9pm and you don't need to take part in races - many of our members have never raced at all and just enjoy the training.