Run Leader Guide

Resources
Alsager Runners – Run Leader Resources Folder

Thanks for volunteering to lead an Alsager Runners Tuesday group. We want everyone to enjoy their runs and have fun. Being a run lead is a great opportunity to make people feel welcome and give them lots of support and encouragement.

We know that leading a group for the first time can seem daunting, so we have put together some guidelines to help you.

Most importantly: understand, monitor and manage everyone as an individual, not as a group. Even those who run at the same pace can have different needs – lead the individuals and not the group.

Talk to people. Whilst on your warm-up, take an interest in why they run, any indications of injury, or what is on their mind. All insights will help you lead more effectively.

You do not need to be a coach or have a run leader qualification to lead a run. You are not legally responsible for any runner in the group.

Lead a group at a pace you are comfortable running; consider dropping back a pace group from the one you would normally run with. If leading the Beginners Group, seek guidance from the committee first to ensure you can provide an inclusive experience.

Before your run

Be highly visible, and welcome everyone by name with a smile. Especially those new to running or new to Alsager Runners. Count your runners and check everyone who signed up is present.

Ask runners to let you know if they drop out mid-run. Watch those stepping up pace for the first time and run with them to maintain motivation and enjoyment.

Warm Up: speak to a member of the committee for guidance on warm-up techniques.

During your run

Keep everyone running as a group; do not leave anyone behind. Check everyone is comfortable at the pace and adjust if necessary. Keep your pace even and close to the advertised pace.

If the group starts to split, have front runners loop back to rejoin the group. Encourage faster runners to move up a group for future runs if needed.

Be mindful of pavements, footpaths, and shared usage. Call out hazards, guide runners safely around obstacles, and ensure road crossings are safe.

Re-count your group every mile to ensure everyone is present. Have one or two reliable runners to help manage the group or emergencies.

After your run

Count your group back in. Check for injuries and how everyone is feeling to plan future runs. Stretch: speak to a committee member for guidance on stretching techniques.

In case of emergency

If assistance is needed from emergency services, call 999 as soon as safe. Check for ICE (In Case of Emergency) tags on runners, and utilise the group to assist or find help. Contact a committee member when the situation is under control.

Running When it is Dark

Wear a torch or running light and hi-visibility clothing. Ensure anyone without suitable equipment obtains some or is discouraged from joining that night. Plan well-lit routes and use torches to spot hazards.

Safety Guidance for Endurance Training Group Leaders

Risk Assessment

Consider the following before embarking on a run:

The Training Group
Ability: varied capabilities and injuries.
Experience: knowledge of terrain and running.
Health Conditions: asthma, diabetes, heart problems, hearing or vision limitations.
Size: larger groups present more challenges.

Conditions
Weather, underfoot hazards (ice, mud, water), and daylight availability.

The Route
Traffic, footpaths, major crossings, and street lighting.

Suitable Equipment
Runners should come suitably equipped; less experienced runners may need guidance. Clothing: hi-vis, weatherproof as needed.
Footwear: appropriate for terrain.

Communication
Share route and important information with the group. Limit audio equipment. Mobile phones may be useful for remote areas.

Organisation
Sweepers at the rear, minders for inexperienced runners, and holding points for regrouping. Road & rail crossings should be designated holding points. Alternative routes may be necessary in poor weather or emergencies. Confirm all runners return safely at the end.

Club Team and Events

Alsager Runners Committee
Stephen & Kirsty McLean, Andy Cowden, Catherine Winders, Sue Hall, Sara & Angelo Apa, Marcus & Becky Pitt, Andrea & Martin Hughes

We organise a number of running and social events throughout the year. Details are on the website calendar, and you can sign up on the Run Booking page.

Club Running Series
Alsager 5, Spring and Autumn Predictathons, Relay, Club Race

Social Events
Virtual challenge, fancy dress runs, BBQ, away weekend, Christmas race, quiz nights, promoted races, social trail runs

Annual Fee

Alsager Runners is funded from members' fees. Fees are £12 a year, payable in July.

Members benefit from discounts for products and gym membership. Details can be found on the Club Discounts page on the website.

New members will get a one-month free trial, during which time you will be covered by our insurance when running with the club. After the free month, new members will be notified and will need to pay £12 to join the club. Then £12 every July to renew membership.

Payment for membership fees needs to be paid by BACS to our club bank account. Please put your name as the reference.

Account name: Alsager Runners
Account number: 25392131
Sort code: 01-01-38

We have kept the fee as low as possible, and based on the current number of runners, it should just cover the costs of running the club. However, in the event of any surplus funding, it will go back into the club to fund events, club equipment, coaching qualifications, and a club kit subsidy.

Club accounts and a breakdown of costs are available on request. Please email any questions or comments to team@alsagerrunners.co.uk