A new community running initiative is being launched with the aim of helping women feel more confident about getting active, in a setting that feels relaxed, welcoming and free from pressure.
The group, called Mind Over Miles, has been created to support women who may be new to running, returning after time away, or simply looking for a more social and friendly way to build movement into their routine.
Organisers say the idea came from a simple problem that many people recognise. Running alone can feel intimidating, especially at the start, and it is easy for confidence to drop when you feel like everyone else is already ahead. Mind Over Miles is designed to change that feeling by making running something shared rather than something done in isolation, with an emphasis on encouragement, conversation and going at your own pace.
The group is built around the idea of support rather than performance. There is no focus on pace, distance targets or ability levels, and no expectation for anyone to be at a certain stage in their fitness journey. Instead, the priority is creating a space where women can move together, talk freely, and feel comfortable whether they are walking, jogging or running. Organisers say the goal is to take away judgement completely and replace it with a sense of ease and belonging.
Alongside the physical benefits of getting active, the group also places strong importance on social connection. Mind Over Miles is intended to be just as much about friendship as fitness, giving people a chance to meet others with similar goals or simply enjoy being part of a supportive group environment. Organisers hope that the sessions will become something people look forward to, not just for exercise, but for the conversations and connections that come with it.
The group is open to all women, whether they are already regular runners, thinking about starting for the first time, or just curious to try something new. There is no cost to join, with organisers confirming that participation is completely free, removing any financial barrier that might stop someone from getting involved.
They say this is just the beginning of what they hope will become a growing community, built slowly and naturally over time. The aim is to create something sustainable and positive, where people feel welcome from their very first session and feel able to come back whenever it suits them.
