A local running club is helping women feel safe when exercising at night.
Chloe March started Runova, a women’s running club based in Warminster, in September last year to build a community for female runners who do not feel safe running on their own.
“Initially, I created the club to build a community of women with a similar interest and to create a safe space for those who didn’t feel as comfortable running alone,” said Chloe, a qualified running coach with England Athletics.
“It wasn’t until starting this group that I became aware of just how many women wouldn’t run on their own in the dark. I’ve had feedback from members that this group allows them a space where they can run and feel safe, surrounded by like-minded women.
“I very much believe women’s safety is a much larger topic and, as a whole, there are so many things that need addressing to create a world where women feel safe to be out on a run. I myself have experienced everything from cat-calling on a run to being physically followed and chased down a road.
“This group is one step to breaking down some of the barriers that women face. Many members feel safer knowing that there are others with them and that they are not alone should a situation occur.”
The group runs social 5km runs every Monday, as well as a monthly 10km run. They go for brunch together after some runs and also have a WhatsApp community where members can connect, chat and support each other.
“I have always wanted Runova to be a space where women feel safe, empowered and inspired by those around them,” said Chloe. “It’s a space for women to connect with others, discuss topics they may not feel able to otherwise, and support each other in their goals. To see members becoming friends, supporting each other with their goals, and meeting up to run together is everything I had hoped for from my community.
“I have had so much positive feedback from members saying they were nervous to join but have created friends they can now run with on other days of the week. One member told me they would have never considered running outside after work in the dark if it wasn’t for this group.
The group’s runs are free to attend and start at Hebe Fitness, a women’s-only fitness studio in Warminster.
For more information, visit their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/runovauk/ or email Chloe on chloemarch@runova.co.uk
