Canterbury Group Leader - Sarah Hinton I began running when I was child as both my Mum and Dad were keen runners and members of a local athletics club. Like most people I stopped for a while and then took up running again about 9 years ago when I moved into the area. Completely hooked on running I went on a UK Athletics course and started my own running group. I started Jelly Legs as I wanted to provide a club for men and women of all abilities. I have taken part in lots of local runs and in 2008 I plucked up the courage to run the London Marathon, which is something I had wanted to do for a while as I remembered watching and cheering on my Dad when I was a child. Whilst I do still enter races, I tend to get my runners high from watching our members achieve their personal goals. There's nothing more satisfying than seeing their beaming faces as they cross the finishing line! UKA Coach in Running and Fitness Leader in Fitness in Running and Walking Level 1 Assistant Coach Emergency First Aid at work Safeguarding and Protecting Children Canterbury Leader - Carole Westley Until 2 years ago, I used to run by myself in the gym or along Hampton seafront. Following an operation I just couldn`t motivate myself to get back into running. I then saw an article in the local paper for Jelly Legs, which sounded ideal. I went along to the Canterbury group one evening and the rest is history, I have never looked back. I still thoroughly enjoy running with the group and can’t ever imagine going back to running on my own! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Whitstable Group Leader - Helen Taylor I have been running regularly for the last six years. I enjoy the social benefits of running with a group and find I always run further than I would have done on my own. I have taken part in lots of local 5k, 10k, 5 mile and half marathon races. I find running gives me motivation in other areas of my life and I became a leader so that I can help others take part in this great way to get and stay fit. I love running in the countryside and am lucky to have an understanding husband when I arrive home cake in mud! When I'm not charging around after my little one, I work in an office so running 2-3 times a week helps me maintain a moderate in take of chocolate biscuits while still being able to do up my jeans! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Whitstable Leader - Carol Gillatt Bored with indoor running but keen to make running my hobby I decided to join a local athletics club. I progressed from my first Race for Life to trying a 10k. I then entered my first half marathon without telling anybody in case I had to stop! I am pleased to say that I didn’t and finished in a very respectable time. I’ve not looked back since. I am currently training for the London Marathon as I had always said that I wanted to complete a marathon in my 50th year. I will take a chance on the day that the atmosphere and buzz of being part of the biggest race on the UK calendar will get me round. It will be a privilege to take part and no doubt on the Monday after the race my legs will truly reflect the name of this club! I joined Jelly Legs as a volunteer leader in January 2010 as I wanted to give something back to the sport that has given me so much. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Aerobics and Gym Instructor Cardiac Rehab and Exercise Referral Instructor BSC Health Science Whitstable Leader - Keeley Mardon I only starting running in May 2011. I had always wanted to run but never had the confidence to do it. Joining Jelly Legs has helped me keep on track and believe in myself as a runner. I am now training for the Brighton marathon and the Edinburgh half marathon.  The enthusiasm from the leaders kept me going when the going got tough. I now have the opportunity as a leader to put something back into the group. I love seeing members grow in confidence and miles and achieve their personal goals. Canterbury Leader - Rebecca Ward I had been an irregular runner since school but three years ago I decided to challenge myself to train up for a half marathon and haven’t looked back since. I love the buzz you get after running and being on the road with other people makes it easier and a lot more fun. My ultimate goal is to eventually run a marathon. I’d like to pass on my enthusiasm for running and being active, showing people of all ages, sizes and abilities that they really can give it a go! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification First Aid Qualified Canterbury & Whitstable Leader - Susanne Yoxall I started running on my own to get fit after a major operation 7 years ago plus I was determined to run in a Race for Life event as I had been a cancer patient. I was introduced to my local group and have never looked back. I have since gone on to take part in a number of Race for Life events, fun runs, 10k and half marathon races. I'm happiest when I'm helping and motivating others, having a laugh along the way, so becoming a Jelly Legs leader was a natural progression for me. I now have a huge network of friends and lots of helpful advice about running as I don't consider myself to be a sportswomen. I just enjoy being outdoors, meeting lots of new people and helping them with whatever they want to get from being part of a running group. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Emergency First Aid at work England Athletics Leadership in Running Fitness Tutor Canterbury & Whitstable Leader - Fiona Graham-Dobson I started running about 7 years ago having never run since school. I started running to save money at the gym, save time whilst walking the dogs and to do something for myself now that the kids have grown up. I managed to run for about 3 miles on my own without stopping and then joined an athletics club, but decided it wasn’t for me. Instead of running around the town on my own I decided I would feel safer by joining a group and a friend suggested a local club. Straight away I felt I belonged. The other runners, although varying in ability, made sure no one was left on their own. The members were like minded people who liked the outdoors, wanted to keep fit and healthy and had a good sense of humour, I made friends almost immediately! Since joining the group I have run three marathons, learnt to swim, completed 5 triathlons and numerous bike rides, I have changed my job (I'm convinced this is due to the confidence running has given me) and continued to make good friends. Becoming a leader was a natural progression for me because I wanted to pass on all I'd learnt and enjoyed. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Emergency First Aid at work Deal Group Leader - Lesley Daley I never ran at school and although I tried to run many times as an adult, I never seemed to get more than 50 metres before having to give up – so I thought it just wasn’t for me. About five years ago I was shown the right technique and could just about manage two miles on my own when I joined Sarah and her running group in Canterbury. At first I was at the back and had to walk all the hills – but nobody minded and I was really encouraged to keep on going. Today I have the medals for the London marathon and quite a few half marathons hanging up in the kitchen. I now run one of the Deal groups – so I can really empathise with those who join our beginners’ groups as complete novices. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Emergency First Aid at work   Deal Leader - Katrina Woolcock I started running a couple of years ago, having got to where I could run for 20mins without stopping. Wanting to progress, I joined a local athletics club. Sadly, things didn't go to plan on my first session with them and I decided it wasn't the right club for me. The following year whilst out walking my dog along Deal seafront I noticed a group of ladies running towards me. There were too many to be friends so I stopped and asked them if they were part of a running group. They were, Jelly Legs and I was invited along to their next session. I was immediately welcomed into the group and was so pleased to find such a friendly, fun club who were all very supportive of each other, regardless of ability. My running improved with the variety of locations and distances. The support was perfect and not once have I felt intimidated. This I feel is one of the reasons many women are resistant to running. Moving forward, I supported Lesley with her Beginners group in the Winter of 2010 and undertook the Leadership in Fitness course in Feb 11. I'm now really looking forward to sharing my experience and knowledge with my own beginners group starting in May 11. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Deal Leader - Dee Lawrence Over the years I have attended various fitness and aerobic classes, Gym, Step and Pilates as I enjoy keeping fit and meeting new people. I, like most people after a period of time needed a change. I tried running on my own and made the typical mistake of running too fast too quickly which stopped me progressing further. I joined Jelly Legs last February 2010 and haven’t looked back since. I have learnt how to run properly!! We have a lovely friendly, supportive running group in Deal and we are all improving our fitness together. This is what makes you leave the house, to meet your running friends! I support Lesley with her running group on Mondays and it is really rewarding to see how people progress and to help encourage them to do so. I felt very privileged to be asked to be a Running Leader and I am looking forward to expanding my skills further. Give it a go I highly recommend it and you can do it! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Thanet Group Leader - Lisa Moore I have been running for over 10 years, with a couple of recent breaks when I had my two sons. After my first son was born Iwas lucky enough to be back running within two months. I ran a 10k when he was 11 weeks old, although I did come 3rd to last and got beaten by an Ostrich (fancy dress version not the real thing!). But I didn't mind I was back doing something I enjoyed and the best thing about coming near the back is that you get the biggest cheers! Please come along, enjoy it, meet new friends and ESCAPE for an hour! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Thanet 2011 Coach of the Year Award winner Thanet Leader - Lorraine Church I started running in August 2010 as a way to get fit, loose some weight and meet new people as I was fairly new to the area. Like many 'beginners' I thought that I would be the ONLY one who hadn't actually run since school, but to my amazement, found everyone to be in the same boat.   I won't deny it seemed hard in the beginning, but with the encouragement of my leader and the rest of my running buddies, I was soon finding it becoming easier and easier and having run my first 5k recently, have never looked back. The buzz and satisfaction of just taking part is enough for me, but I continue to improve and progress, and so when my leader asked me to enrol in a Leadership in Running Fitness course, I was extremely proud and jumped at the chance to help others achieve their goals. My message to anyone new thinking of joining us, even if you THINK you can't run, try it, give it just a few weeks, and you will soon be as amazed as I was at what you are capable of! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Thanet Leader - Jo O'Donnell I have always been very active and have been regularly attending the gym for a number of years doing a variety of classes which I really enjoy. To add variety to my routine and to improve my fitness, I thought I would start running on the treadmill. It was obvious after a few attempts that I had no idea how to run, or even how to start!! I joined the Margate group in November 2010 and have never looked back. The encouragement from the leader and members of the group is fantastic. It really feels like a team effort!! Running in a group is a great way to meet new friends, get fit, and most importantly, HAVE FUN! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification Thanet Leader - Jade Flaig My friends and family still can't believe that I go running, in fact I can't. I tried to start running about 8 years ago, running off down the road with my Mum falling over with laughter at my running style. Doing it by myself I had no idea on pace, distance or even where to begin. I obviously failed and never thought about exercise again; until I had my daughter. I was very nervous but once I had decided to join I felt so much better, I was relieved that others in my group were in the same boat and immediately felt welcome. I love and thrive on the motivation and support I get from the others in my group, I really don't think I could have achieved so much in such a short space of time without them. So when I was asked to help my leader with the new beginners group I jumped at the chance to help people fall in love with running as much as I have. I completed my first 5k on New Year’s Day after only running for 6 weeks and now really enjoy the buzz of seeing my time improving every time. To anyone thinking about starting running I would just like to say DO IT. It’s a great way to meet people, have a laugh and keep fit - it's a lot easier than you think it is. Leadership in Running Fitness qualification First Aid Qualified Thanet Leader - Pauline Petitt I have always liked to participate in some sort of sport.  In my early days I played netball and attended aerobic classes in the days of the Green Goddess. In 2010, I stumbled across Woman’s Running Network who later became Jelly Legs Running Club.  I always tried to avoid running like the plague as I never thought of myself as a runner - like a lot of the Jelly Legs’ members. But, thank goodness for great leaders as I am proud to say, “I am a Runner”.  I love running in a group as it offers motivation, team support, great friendships and lots of fun! Leadership in Running Fitness qualification

Canterbury Group Leader - Sarah Hinton

I began running when I was child as both my Mum and Dad were keen runners and members of a local athletics club.  Like most people I stopped for a while and then took up running again about 9 years ago when I moved into the area.  Completely hooked on running I went on a UK Athletics course and started my own running group.  I started Jelly Legs as I wanted to provide a club for men and women of all abilities.   

I have taken part in lots of local runs and in 2008 I plucked up the courage to run the London Marathon, which is something I had wanted to do for a while as I remembered watching and cheering on my Dad when I was a child.  Whilst I do still enter races, I tend to get my runners high from watching our members achieve their personal goals.  There's nothing more satisfying than seeing their beaming faces as they cross the finishing line!

UKA Coach in Running and Fitness
Leader in Fitness in Running and Walking
Level 1 Assistant Coach
Emergency First Aid at work
Safeguarding and Protecting Children

Canterbury Leader - Carole Westley

Until 2 years ago, I used to run by myself in the gym or along Hampton seafront. Following an operation I just couldn`t motivate myself to get back into running. I then saw an article in the local paper for Jelly Legs, which sounded ideal. I went along to the Canterbury group one evening and the rest is history, I have never looked back. I still thoroughly enjoy running with the group and can’t ever imagine going back to running on my own! 

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification

Whitstable Group Leader - Helen Taylor

I have been running regularly for the last six years.  I enjoy the social benefits of running with a group and find I always run further than I would have done on my own.  I have taken part in lots of local 5k, 10k, 5 mile and half marathon races.  I find running gives me motivation in other areas of my life and I became a leader so that I can help others take part in this great way to get and stay fit.  I love running in the countryside and am lucky to have an understanding husband when I arrive home cake in mud!  When I'm not charging around after my little one, I work in an office so running 2-3 times a week helps me maintain a moderate in take of chocolate biscuits while still being able to do up my jeans!

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification

Whitstable Leader - Carol Gillatt

Bored with indoor running but keen to make running my hobby I decided to join a local athletics club. I progressed from my first Race for Life to trying a 10k. I then entered my first half marathon without telling anybody in case I had to stop! I am pleased to say that I didn’t and finished in a very respectable time. I’ve not looked back since. 

I am currently training for the London Marathon as I had always said that I wanted to complete a marathon in my 50^th year. I will take a chance on the day that the atmosphere and buzz of being part of the biggest race on the UK calendar will get me round. It will be a privilege to take part and no doubt on the Monday after the race my legs will truly reflect the name of this club! 

I joined Jelly Legs as a volunteer leader in January 2010 as I wanted to give something back to the sport that has given me so much.

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
Aerobics and Gym Instructor
Cardiac Rehab and Exercise Referral Instructor
BSC Health Science


Deal Group Leader - Lesley Daley

I won't deny it seemed hard in the beginning, but with the encouragement of my leader and the rest of my running buddies, I was soon finding it becoming easier and easier and having run my first 5k recently, have never looked back.  The buzz and satisfaction of just taking part is enough for me, but I continue to improve and progress, and so when my leader asked me to enrol in a Leadership in Running Fitness course, I was extremely proud and jumped at the chance to help others achieve their goals.

My message to anyone new thinking of joining us, even if you THINK you can't run, try it, give it just a few weeks, and you will soon be as amazed as I was at what you are capable of!

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification

Thanet Leader - Jo O'Donnell

To add variety to my routine and to improve my fitness, I thought I would start running on the treadmill.  It was obvious after a few attempts that I had no idea how to run, or even how to start!!   I joined the Margate group in November 2010 and have never looked back.  The encouragement from the leader and members of the group is fantastic. It really feels like a team effort!! 

Running in a group is a great way to meet new friends, get fit, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!  
 

Canterbury Leader - Rebecca Ward

I had been an irregular runner since school but three years ago I decided to challenge myself to train up for a half marathon and haven’t looked back since. I love the buzz you get after running and being on the road with other people makes it easier and a lot more fun. My ultimate goal is to eventually run a marathon. I’d like to pass on my enthusiasm for running and being active, showing people of all ages, sizes and abilities that they really can give it a go!

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
First Aid Qualified

Canterbury & Whitstable Leader - Susanne Yoxall

I started running on my own to get fit after a major operation 7 years ago plus I was determined to run in a Race for Life event as I had been a cancer patient. I was introduced to my local group and have never looked back. I have since gone on to take part in a number of Race for Life events, fun runs, 10k and half marathon races.

I'm happiest when I'm helping and motivating others, having a laugh along the way, so becoming a Jelly Legs leader was a natural progression for me. I now have a huge network of friends and lots of helpful advice about running as I don't consider myself to be a sportswomen. I just enjoy being outdoors, meeting lots of new people and helping them with whatever they want to get from being part of a running group.

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
Emergency First Aid at work
England Athletics Leadership in Running Fitness Tutor

Canterbury & Whitstable Leader - Fiona Graham-Dobson

I started running about 7 years ago having never run since school. I started running to save money at the gym, save time whilst walking the dogs and to do something for myself now that the kids have grown up.
Since joining the group I have run three marathons, learnt to swim, completed 5 triathlons and numerous bike rides, I have changed my job (I'm convinced this is due to the confidence running has given me) and continued to make good friends. Becoming a leader was a natural progression for me because I wanted to pass on all I'd learnt and enjoyed.

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
Emergency First Aid at work

 

I managed to run for about 3 miles on my own without stopping and then joined an athletics club, but decided it wasn’t for me. Instead of running around the town on my own I decided I would feel safer by joining a group and a friend suggested a local club. Straight away I felt I belonged. The other runners, although varying in ability, made sure no one was left on their own. The members were like minded people who liked the outdoors, wanted to keep fit and healthy and had a good sense of humour, I made friends almost immediately!
 

Canterbury Leader - Rebecca Ward

I had been an irregular runner since school but three years ago I decided to challenge myself to train up for a half marathon and haven’t looked back since. I love the buzz you get after running and being on the road with other people makes it easier and a lot more fun. My ultimate goal is to eventually run a marathon. I’d like to pass on my enthusiasm for running and being active, showing people of all ages, sizes and abilities that they really can give it a go!

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
First Aid Qualified

Canterbury & Whitstable Leader - Susanne Yoxall

I started running on my own to get fit after a major operation 7 years ago plus I was determined to run in a Race for Life event as I had been a cancer patient. I was introduced to my local group and have never looked back. I have since gone on to take part in a number of Race for Life events, fun runs, 10k and half marathon races.

I'm happiest when I'm helping and motivating others, having a laugh along the way, so becoming a Jelly Legs leader was a natural progression for me. I now have a huge network of friends and lots of helpful advice about running as I don't consider myself to be a sportswomen. I just enjoy being outdoors, meeting lots of new people and helping them with whatever they want to get from being part of a running group.

Leadership in Running Fitness qualification
Emergency First Aid at work
England Athletics Leadership in Running Fitness Tutor