Do you feel like you're spending your free time feeling unproductive, or find yourself constantly glued to your phone? Then it could be time to shake it off and find a new, fulfilling hobby.
Picking up running as a new hobby can seem daunting at first, you may even be telling yourself that you’re not active enough to enjoy such a thing - we encourage you to put these negative thoughts aside, and read why running makes for an excellent hobby regardless of your fitness level!
How to get started
If you’re a complete beginner, or have been inactive for a while, then we recommend starting slow with short intervals of running with recovery walks in between. Over time, you can gradually increase the time spent running while shortening the time spent recovering. There are an array of programmes readily available online that are perfect for introducing you to the world of running and all the benefits that come with it, such as the NHS Couch to 5km.
Improve your physical and mental health
But what makes running a worthwhile hobby? The most obvious reason is physical health benefits associated with regular cardio exercise, as running can improve your heart health, lower blood pressure, and boost your immune system! Not only that, but heading outside for a run can really take a weight off your shoulders - often referred to as a ‘runner’s high’, running can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
An affordable way to keep fit
There’s no need to worry about expensive equipment or a gym membership either, as this budget-friendly way of keeping fit just requires comfortable running shoes and the great outdoors.
Why run for Charlie House?
Yet, we understand that it might be difficult to motivate yourself to keep getting outside, and to keep running - that’s why many of our generous donors run for Charlie House! Fitness fundraising events are the perfect driver for keeping you focused on your running goals, as you’ll be backed by supporters who will be cheering you all the way to the finish line and our fundraising team is your perfect accountability partner to keep you inspired.
After completing a fitness challenge, you’ll be fulfilled with a grand sense of accomplishment, knowing that the vital funds raised will help Charlie House continue to support children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families.
Are you up for the challenge? Here are just a handful of running challenges that you can conquer in the name of Charlie House this year.
Great North Run
Sunday 10th September - register here
Acclaimed to be the world’s biggest and best half marathon thanks to the 60,000 dedicated runners that participate each year, the Great North Run has been completed by more than 1,000,000 individuals since the first race in 1981.
Millions of pounds have been raised for charities and local causes in this 42-year span, with many completing the challenge while running for Charlie House. The 2023 edition of the half marathon will take runners through the heart of Newcastle to the breezy shores of South Shields, while a separate 10km run is also available.
Scottish Half Marathon
Sunday 24th September - register here
Edinburgh. 13.1 miles. Are you ready to challenge yourself with the Scottish Half Marathon?
The route for this year’s race is ‘seriously flat and rapid’, meaning this is the perfect opportunity to grab that half marathon personal best that you have been chasing for months! Commencing just outside Edinburgh, the race will take you along the wonderful East Lothian Golf Coast before finishing in the final furlong at Scotland's oldest racecourse, Musselburgh Racecourse.
Conquering a half marathon is no easy feat, and is sure to impress your friends and family should you decide to take on this challenge!
Loch Ness Marathon
Sunday 1st October - register here
The Loch Ness Marathon is undoubtedly one of the most popular fitness fundraisers amongst our wonderful donors, and is said to be one of the most stunning marathons in the world thanks to its astounding location.
It’s no wonder why runners from around the world travel for the Loch Ness Marathon, as the route takes participants from atmospheric moorlands, through breathtaking highland scenery, along the eastern shores of the world-famous Loch, before finishing at Inverness.
Please remember that a marathon like this will require an abundance of training beforehand to ensure you cross the finish line, and to protect yourself from injury. To discover a list of training tips that will help you prepare for a fitness fundraiser, please click here.
A fantastic hobby, and a worthy cause
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced runner, running for Charlie House is an effective way to ensure you smash your 2023 fitness goals while supporting our work with children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families.
By joining the run for Charlie House, you will gain free access to a variety of running events taking place throughout the year that provide the perfect opportunity to raise funds for our vital services. After signing up, you’ll receive a Run for Charlie House toolkit that will help with your fundraising efforts, an exclusive t-shirt, plus access to a social media support group of fellow runners!
To explore the complete range of running events coming up this year, or to get in touch with a member of our Fundraising Team, please click here.
