I started running casually in 2020 when I wanted to get out of the flat during the UK lockdown. But it wasn’t until 2022 that I became a regular runner. After a breakup, I started lacing up my sneakers two to three times a week and began tracking my pace, time, and distance while listening to Taylor Swift.
Regular running delivered lots of benefits, including improved sleep, weight loss and better mental health. However, while I initially made quick progress by reducing my 5K time from 45 minutes to 31 minutes, I eventually hit a wall and couldn't improve my pace.
I decided to concentrate on two things to improve my 5K time: doing a bi-weekly strength-based gym routine devised by my boyfriend and trainer, and creating a new running club.
I felt local clubs were a little too fast for me and I wanted to be able to talk to people while running, so I founded and launched The Tortured Runners Department.
How I created The Tortured Runners Department
The idea was to create a low-pressure, fun running club where I could meet fellow Swifties. Full credit goes to my boyfriend for the clever name, but I put in the rest of the work. I posted in some local Facebook groups to gauge interest and soon had a WhatsApp chat with 85 eager members.
Before I knew it, I was lacing up my Mizuno Wave Rider 27s, loading up Strava, and heading to my local park to meet fellow Swifties. Like Swift’s fanbase, we’ve got a melting pot of characters who show up each week; from university students to new mums and dads, to people returning to running after injury.
How the Tortured Runners Department is helping me get fitter
1. I never skip a run
When you run independently, it’s easy to make excuses not to go. Having others to hold you accountable helps you stay consistent, and focused on making progress each week, even when the weather is terrible.
2. My breathing is better
In the words of Taylor herself, "I think I can finally breathe". Talking to others while running socially has helped me focus on nasal breathing over mouth breathing, improving the flow of oxygen to my muscles.
3. We go slow to get faster
We run at a steady 6:45/km pace and take regular breaks to make the group as inclusive as possible. Doing more 'easy' zone 2-style runs has helped me improve my pace on solo runs where I push myself to go faster. Thanks to the club, I’ve finally hit that sub-30-minute 5K.
Why I recommend joining a run club
It can be really helpful to surround yourself with friends who have similar fitness goals. You don’t have to feel guilty about choices such as not drinking, or wanting an early night. I’ve also found that my existing friends have joined the running group and I’ve made new ones in the process too!
So if you were thinking of joining a club, or even starting one of your own, I’d strongly recommend it.
