Couch to 5k success for members of new Portskerra club

Six runners from Portskerra, Melvich and Thurso have successfully completed a Couch to 5K programme run by newly formed Portskerra Activ’ Club.

The group attended eight weeks of training sessions, running initially in Portskerra and then on the Strathy North Wind Farm tracks.

Those taking part ranged from absolute novices who had not run since childhood, to those who had run previously but wished to get back to it.

Portskerra Activ’ Club was formed in late 2020 by Farr High School teacher and run trainer Myriam Mackinnon

She said: “One of my biggest dreams when starting the club was to change the idea that sport is always hard or about competition. Our group were so supportive of each other and there was no pressure at all to be better or faster than anyone else.”

Portskerra Activ’ Club has also launched a weekly beach swim on a Sunday at Melvich beach and a monthly walking group. The club plans to continue to expand its activities.

The Couch to 5K exercise programme was developed in 1996 by Josh Clark and has since been made available in the UK by the NHS as well as being delivered by individual trainers. The programme aims to help those new to running who want to be more active.

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