As the clocks have gone back, the nights have become darker and the weather grimmer, there are plenty of reasons why exercising at this time of year can be unappealing and feel unsafe, especially after factoring in school and working hours.
My search for a solution to this common issue in East Sheen led me to the Social Run group, which takes place on Monday nights at 6pm from most Up & Running stores, and is safe, fun and inclusive.
The Social Run Group (SRG for short) is a social run for people of all ages and running experience, where the only thing required is to be able to run a full 5 kilometres, and a desire to meet new people in your local running community.
The SRG was set up in 2015 by the family-owned running specialists Up & Running, who have 29 stores located across the UK, including East Sheen, Teddington and Surbiton.
These runs can be "Whatever you want them to be" said Ricky, manager of the East Sheen store, and that it is "Not a race so there is no need to worry about slowing anybody else down."
I attended the East Sheen SRG on Monday 18th October, which happened to be the Halloween special, where many people dressed up in costumes ranging from Wonder Woman to a full skeleton outfit!
The people were exceptionally friendly and open to having a chat which really enhanced the community vibe.
From a safety aspect the SRG is very well organised with a staff member at the back and one at the front to make sure that nobody gets lost along the 5 kilometre route and that everyone stays together.
It is extremely easy to sign up, which you can do online by visiting www.upandrunning.co.uk and clicking on the SRG tab, or visit your local store on the day where you will be issued your SRG membership card.
So why not sign up!
Don't let the prospect of winter deter you from bettering yourself in a fun, safe and inclusive way!
