Huge congratulations to our Couch to 5K (C25K) participants who successfully completed a 5k route last month as part of a celebratory “graduation run”. It was great to mark the end of the training programme with plenty of big smiles, proudly crossing the finish line (and the dry conditions were a bonus!).
The structured C25K programme is designed to gradually increase running time and distance over 9 weeks, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to return to running after a break.
This year also marked an exciting first for the programme. From week five onwards, participants were invited to join our coach-led club sessions to further support their running journey. These sessions cater for all abilities and are fantastic way to improve running technique, endurance and confidence - all whilst having fun and meeting more of our friendly “Team Orange” club members.
Our Head Coach, Keith, also shared his experience of supporting people through the programme:
“We’re incredibly proud of everything our C25K graduates have achieved. The commitment, grit and positivity shown throughout the programme has been brilliant. It’s great to see people’s confidence improve week by week, and we’re looking forward to continuing to run with and support our recent graduates as they begin their free 6 week trial with us”.
One of our graduates explains:
"I joined NRC C25K program to keep my friend company and to easy back to running after 5 months out with an injury. I was never a fast runner but after my injury I found I was in a worse starting position than before I started running and a few years older. Anyways I shouldn’t have worried - a great team of welcome volunteers from the club supported and encouraged our group all the way to 30mins non stop running and onto a 5k finish the week after. Even though I was last back, I was always made to feel that I can do this - there was absolutely no judgement and no expectations, just pure support to help you begin your running journey and make like-minded friends. Thank you Team Orange for all your support. I am now back running 3 times a week from 5-8k a session and working towards being ready for the blaydon races!" - Debra, 2026 graduate.
A huge thank you also goes to our coaches, run leaders and club members who turned up weekly to support participants every step of the way.
It really does show that at Newburn Running Club – we’re Going Further Together!
If you’re interested in joining us - whether that’s signing up to our next C25K programme, beginning a free 6 week running trial, or becoming a member – we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with any questions via membership@newburnrunningclub.co.uk.