Women from India, Belgium, USA and England arrived in London on a dull Friday afternoon feeling a little hesitant and unsure about what was in store for them, but all nerves were quickly calmed by a warm welcome and some 261® Fearless introductory running games. Soon everyone was laughing and chatting away. Laughter was certainly a regular feature throughout the whole weekend!
As sponsors of 261® Fearless, Adidas had kindly provided their women’s studios at 152 Brick Lane as the course venue. What a wonderful location! Helpful staff, well-equipped fitness studios and all right in the heart of the vibrant multicultural Brick Lane in East London - the perfect match for this international course. We normally grab a quick sandwich for lunch between training sessions but this time, visits to Brick Lane and Spitalfields Markets to drool over the hundreds of food carts and indulge in culinary delights from all over the world became a highlight of the weekend.
Our new coaches jumped straight into learning about how to start their own running clubs with great enthusiasm. There’s a lot to take in with both practical and theory sessions mixed over the weekend but they took it all in their stride. There were some thought-provoking discussions about the logistics of setting up clubs in the different countries and how to overcome some of the barriers to running that women in those locations might face. The coaches from 261® Club Greenwich popped up to meet us and share their experiences of starting a club too; great reassurance and motivation for everyone!
We’re so happy and proud to welcome these dynamic new coaches to the 261®Fearless team. We can’t wait to see them take their new skills and knowledge back to the women in their local communities. Be fearless!
Fantastic weekend! I learnt loads and met some great ladies. I look forward to setting up my group!
Gill, Cambridge
I had a great time at the London course because I learned so much about teaching other women how running can bring joy into their lives, as it did in mine.
Anne, from France, living in Belgium
I really enjoyed building friendships with like-minded people. The content was very interesting and helpful for my own personal running as well as equipping me to help others be the best that they can be.
Alice, Cambridge
Challenging, liberating and confidence boosting sessions that opened my mind to the positive role that social running can play in a community.
Nishtha, Mumbai
