With the rise in women joining running clubs, how are these groups creating a safer and more supportive environment for their members?
On a brisk morning in Roath Park, I joined She Runs Cardiff on their weekly group run. I paced myself alongside Sian as we wound through the trail overlooking the serene lake.
It was on a run just like this that Sian experienced harassment that changed her view on running. As she began her usual route, surrounded by the same quiet that now felt peaceful, she noticed a man approaching her. At first, she thought nothing of it, until he exposed himself.
Sian Regan, a member of She Runs Cardiff, explains that this incident made her fearful, not just for herself but for other girls. “I felt really intimidated by it but also really sad because although I ended up okay there are women a lot younger than me that could have been really affected by it,” says Sian. “You also never know what could have happened.”
This is the harsh reality of women who often face harassment when going out for a run. Women are advised to run in the daytime, or in populated areas, wear loose clothing all whilst making sure to keep their phones on them and staying alert.
Over 50% of women are afraid of being physically attacked and 92% of women are concerned for their welfare when out on a run, according to an Adidas study.
Cornelle Wisdom, a member of the group, explains that women should not have to worry about their safety. “Some of these stories didn’t happen in the dark. They have happened in broad daylight,” says Cornelle. “Women shouldn’t have to fear running and shouldn’t have to alter their schedule for their own safety but sadly this is the case.”
There is an 89% increase in women joining running clubs in comparison to the previous year, according to Strava, an exercise tracking app.
Running in a group can help women feel more comfortable running, especially at night or early in the morning. But these groups are also a source of support and friendship which improves mental wellbeing.
The Cardiff based run club, She Runs was set up in 2019 as a woman only group. Anna-Jane, one of 30 founders explains that allowing men to join would disrupt the dynamics. “When you introduce men into a running group it becomes more competitive and that’s not what we want,” says Anna-Jane. “This is just a safe space for women to run.”
Sarah Thomas, a running buddy at She Runs Cardiff explains how running with the group has helped her improve her wellbeing. “I’ve suffered with my mental health since I was very young, and running just helps so much,” says Sarah. “But it’s not just the running, it’s the social side as well. I’ve met so many amazing people, some inspirational women.”
As I made my way to the meeting spot, I felt worried about running in front of strangers. But as I drew closer, I was met with smiles and encouraging waves which made me feel instantly at ease. Sunny, who joined a few weeks ago, assured me that she had felt the same.
Sunny Knight, a member of She Runs Cardiff attended an International Women’s Day run but felt awkward as she didn’t know many people there. As she started running Sunny noticed everyone running in pairs whilst she was running alone. Another member came up to Sunny and ran and talked with her the whole way.
“She said ‘we’ll never leave anyone alone’ which was really nice, she really included me into the group,” says Sunny.
Anna-Jane explains that having a welcoming atmosphere is what she strives for. “We have a hashtag ‘party in the back’ which is where even the slowest people don’t get left behind. We wanted to make it about actually going out and socialising, rather than it being about your times and speeds,” says Anna-Jane.
I saw this philosophy for myself. The run was broken down into three groups to accommodate all running paces. I struggled towards the end of the run but as I slowed down the other runners immediately dropped back to match my pace which made me feel supported.
Running clubs are also a great way to stay motivated. Having people to keep you accountable and having a place to go to exercise can create a sense of belonging.
Wendy Ismail, a member of She Runs Cardiff, explains how running with her friend made it easier for her to return to running. “She said come with me and we’ll do it together, I’m amazed by how it helped, it was such a lovely way to get back into it,” said Wendy.
“When we are out in groups you still get it, men shouting comments at you. I don’t know whether they think they are being encouraging but they are still harassing you and there’s no need for it,” says Sarah.
Sarah recalls attending a Sarah Everard run, where the names of those who lost their lives were read out, to pay tribute to women who have been killed whilst out for a run. “So many of them were running in daylight and they followed all the guidance that the police gave,” says Sarah. “But if somebody wants to cause you harm, they’ll do it.”
“We are not at fault, it’s men,” says Sarah.
Anna-Jane explains that guidance in this area is misdirected, “We have had people setting up apps who approach us saying it is all about women’s safety and we feel they are aiming it at the wrong people, there should be education for the people who are dangerous if you know what I mean.”
Anna- Jane explains that these threats will not stop her and her group from running. “We don’t feel it should be us that should be changing what we do as women,” says Anna-Jane. “We are going to keep doing it.”
“We are not going to shy away because of this, we take sensible precautions, but we will carry on the way that we normally do.”