How do I know which session is right for me
- All our sessions are graded 1-5 Here is a guide to finding the right run for you.
Level 1
- Complete beginners Couch 2-5K (10 week plan through Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter
Level 2
- Run Walk Run - For those who can complete a 5K between 37-41 minutes.
- Hill Training where you work to your own ability.
Level 3
- Social Runs, Trail & Road are suitable for those can run a 5K between 31-36 minutes.
- Interval Training where you work to your own ability.
Level 4
- Club Run sessions are suitable for those who can run a 5K distance in 27 -30 minutes and able to run a 10K distance.
Level 5
- Club Run sessions, suitable for those who can run a 5K distance in 26 minutes and under and able to run a 10K distance.
Is Couch 2 5 K suitable for me
Couch 2-5K is designed for total beginners or those returning following an injury, the clue is in the title. We hear a lot of people say I will join this when I’m fitter, faster, thinner which is not the idea at all. Another popular question is am I too old? You are never too old, in-fact 41% of our members are in the 35-59 age range and 11% over 60.
The slower and more unfit you are the better. It’s hosted over 10 weeks free of charge but, you must register your place to attend. We have sessions throughout Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter.
Where do you meet?
Our Tuesday night club runs meets at Friary Gardens in Richmond however our other runs may vary week to week but we always update the Run Together App with details.
All other runs not listed on the website are “unofficial” runs where members arrange their own meetups with friends. If you’re ever feeling like you want someone to run with just post in our Facebook group, there’s always someone who’s running!
What Should I Wear?
A very popular question, especially for new members who have never run before! You can wear whatever you feel comfortable in - there is no need for expensive leggings and branded tops as long as you feel comfortable enough to put one foot in front of the other! We'd recommend purchasing some supportive trainers such as a pair from Asics, Saucony or Brooks but a basic pair is fine to get you started! It's not a fashion show and no one will judge you for what you're wearing, the important thing is you're joining in!
How much is it to join?
Our C25K is Free and we offer free running group taster sessions, However our membership is one of the lowest in the country. Membership not only helps to keep the group operating (websites don't come free), it also helps promote us. Everything we sell is top quality and you will look great wearing it and be easily identified by other Caterpillars out and about!
Why affiliate?
Membership & Affiliation to Team Caterpillar costs £27
So why join? The benefits you receive from England Athletics are discounts on races where you can easily make your affiliation fee back, access to power of 10 where you can review all your race and performance data, corporate partnership offers and discounts on products, access to coaching webinars, discounts on courses, and training, guaranteed access to the London Marathon club ballot, invitation to our AGM, opportunities to shape the future of athletics and being part of the England Athletics family. Your money supports schemes such as youth talent programs & Junior development, but locally you help support our club to grow and continue to offer the sessions you love in a safe inclusive way.
Our affiliation fee to England Athletics is £200 a year and we have to have in place a constitution and governance structure, In turn we get world class club support, insurance, access to funding and lots more
To put this into context, to run Team Caterpillar it costs us annually around £3,600 that takes into consideration, affiliation fee, web hosting, portal for the shop, marketing, document management, training courses, track hire and awards etc. No one takes a salary and all coaches are volunteers.
If you can support us we would really appreciate it. It’s the price of a few coffees.
The affiliation year runs 1st April to 31st of March, if you have previously been registered with a club you can request a club transfer now to Team Caterpillar through your My Athletics portal. If you are a new member or transferring member please complete the application form - Link Below
Why do I have to register my details with Run Together before I can run?
Our coaches need to ensure accurate details are recorded for Health & Safety reasons; to be aware of any medical issues and your next of kin details in the event of an emergency and to make sure you are all back safely from a run. But don't worry we won't spam you and all the information we hold is treated confidentially and compliant with GDPR.
How To Book
All sessions can be booked by downloading the Run Together Runner App or registering on the Run Together website.