SoBo Ladies Running Club is a welcoming women’s running community based in Southbourne, Bournemouth. The club offers weekly group runs, Saturday morning coffee runs, longer-distance sessions and free Couch to 5K programmes for members. Routes take in Southbourne Beach and Hengistbury Head, with an emphasis on encouragement, enjoyment and running without pressure or judgement. Membership is free and women can join through the club’s Facebook group.
SoBo Ladies Running Club was created to provide women with a safe, supportive and uplifting environment in which to enjoy running.
The group welcomes women who are completely new to running, returning after a break or concerned that they might be too slow for a traditional club. There is no expectation to compete or continually chase faster times.
Instead, the focus is on enjoying movement, improving gradually and connecting with other women from Southbourne and the surrounding area.
The club was founded by Jess Pearcey, a Run Leader, Level 3 personal trainer and UESCA running coach.
SoBo Ladies Running Club organises several types of group activity.
The club offers a midweek evening run covering approximately 5K or more. These sessions give members an opportunity to run with others during the week and gradually build their fitness, confidence and distance.
Exact times, routes and meeting points are shared through the members’ Facebook group.
Saturday morning runs alternate between SOBO Beach and Hengistbury Head.
These sessions combine a relaxed group run with the opportunity to enjoy coffee and conversation afterwards. Members can currently access a £2 coffee offer at SOBO Beach during applicable Saturday runs.
The club also arranges longer-distance group runs for members ready to progress beyond 5K.
Distances and routes can vary, so runners should check the current information before attending and choose a session suitable for their ability.
SoBo Ladies Running Club welcomes women at different stages of their running journeys.
The club may be particularly suitable for women who:
The group’s ethos centres on positive support without pressure or judgement.
SoBo Ladies Running Club runs in-person Couch to 5K programmes at selected times during the year.
These courses are designed for women who want to complete their first 5K or return to running following a break. The programme builds distance gradually, helping participants develop their fitness and confidence in a supportive group.
The club’s previous Couch to 5K courses have followed a nine-week programme. Current start dates and session arrangements are announced through its website and Facebook group.
Couch to 5K programmes are free for club members, and membership itself is currently free.
Yes. Supporting new runners is an important part of the club’s purpose.
Women who are not ready to join a continuous 5K run can look out for the next Couch to 5K programme. Those already able to cover approximately 5K can enquire about attending a regular weekly session.
If you are unsure which option is most appropriate, contact the club before joining a run. The organisers can explain the expected distance and help you find a suitable starting point.
The club’s regular locations provide access to some of Bournemouth’s most enjoyable coastal running routes.
Runs may take in:
The promenade provides a predominantly flat surface, while Hengistbury Head offers varied coastal scenery and access to wider paths and trails.
Routes and surfaces may change between sessions, so members should read the latest run information before attending.
Membership of SoBo Ladies Running Club is currently free.
Members can access:
The club continues to develop relationships with local cafés and running retailers, so available discounts may change.
To join, visit the club’s membership page and follow the link to its private Facebook group.
Prospective members will be asked to answer the group’s membership questions. Once accepted, they can view details of forthcoming runs, beginner programmes and meeting arrangements.
You can also contact the club by email if you have questions about suitability or joining.
SoBo Ladies Running Club may be a good choice if you want:
Membership: Find out how to join
Contact: Contact SoBo Ladies Running Club
Please complete this form to request more information.
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