Taking the first step: Building community through running and faith

In this blog, Lucy, Sport and Faith Coach in the Forest of Dean, reflects on how the journey from 0-5k became more than just running—creating space for connection, courage, and personal growth through faith and community.

"In February 2024, I joined the Sportily team, and my first session was a 0-5k group taking place throughout Lent. Rather than giving something up, this was a chance to take up something positive and impactful during Lent. After 9 weeks of meeting as a group, it culminated in running 5k at the Lydney Park Run.  

We’ve run (no pun intended!) two 0-5k groups in Newnham, and it’s been wonderful to get to know a variety of people and see them begin their running journey; all because of taking that first step and signing up to come and join the 0-5k. Starting something new can be scary, and joining a group where you don’t know anyone can feel like a challenge. However, the groups are very inclusive and supportive, and it’s a great way to get to know others. Why not join a Sportily 0-5k group that’s happening in your area? Drop us a message if you'd like us to arrange a 0-5k running group in your area!

From our last 0-5k session, the group decided that they’d like to try netball. Some of the group hadn’t played since they were in school, but it was all about ‘giving it a go’. From that, Newnham Netballers was formed! After taking a break for the winter, we’re restarting at the end of August, and anyone over the age of 16 is very welcome to join us! Keep an eye out here for all the details. 

In Secondary School, I always loved cross-country running, and whilst most of my friends hated the bleep test, I loved it! For me, it wasn’t so much the competition against others (we had two very speedy county runners in our year group that I was never going to beat!), but it was the competition against myself. Could I better my time? When it felt like I had nothing left to push on with, could I keep going instead of giving up?  

Running is a wonderful metaphor for life! In the Bible, Paul uses the analogy of a runner in a race; he looks at the determination and discipline needed to win a physical race, as well as the perseverance needed in our spiritual lives. He reminds us not to get off track, not to look back, and to persevere! Sometimes in life, it can feel like you’re running a marathon – backwards and through treacle, but there is always hope and a reason to press on!   

As a Christian, I find that getting out for a run on my own has always been a chance to pause from the busyness of life, to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation and to spend time praying. When running with a friend, or with a group, it’s a chance to listen, chat and ‘talk life’, and be part of a wonderful, encouraging community with amazing wellbeing and mental health benefits. 

For me, running is a wonderful culmination of friendship, fitness, fun and faith. Why not come and #give it a go? As is often said, ‘The hardest step is the one out of the door.’"

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