A running club focusing on men's mental health and wellbeing is set to host its first St Albans session.
On Thursday, April 2, men across the district are invited to join a new running group for a route around the cathedral and city centre.
The idea of long-term St Albans resident Joe, 28, Miles and Mates will be gathering at 7pm ahead of a short 5K run and an opportunity for men to share each others company.
Joe, who went to Sandringham School, told The Herts Advertiser: "This isn’t your best bet to break a record, set a personal record (although we’d love it if you do), this is your chance to open up about men’s mental health, get outdoors, get moving, and feel good."
The 28-year-old said he saw a "gap in the market" and hoped to avoid the glitz and glamour of running clubs in London which can often feel like "dating scenes".
"St Albans is a massively sporty place, you can't go a few metres without seeing a group of runners," Joe continued.
"There a couple of great run clubs including a fantastic women's one that fills a great space, but I couldn't see something just for men.
"Even if one person turns up and that one person feels a little bit better about themselves when they leave, I'd be absolutely chuffed."
He recalled his own struggles in life and his mental health admitting that, like many others, he finds it hard to talk about this.
"Three out of four suicides in the UK are men taking their own lives, I just can't wrap my head around that, it's so sad. There are so many men who feel like they can't talk and don't have anyone to open up with."
Read More:
- 300 FREE scoops at launch of well-known St Albans ice cream shop
- Bricket Wood fish and chip shop closed today for filming
Joe hopes that the community can also seek solace in two methods that have helped him overcome life's challenges - talking and running.
"I thought 'wouldn't it be great if there was a way of combining the two'," he commented.
The St Albans route will began at 7.15pm and conclude at The Verulam Pub in Lower Dagnall Street where discussions can be had.
"It's not intended to be a social drinking event, but something where people can sit down and build bigger connections with each other after the run, whether that's how your week has been or what's on your mind at the moment," Joe added.
He hopes for some initial success and to "iron out any creases" before continuing the club every week.
"I want everyone to feel welcome, whether you have never run before or you are an ex-professional athlete," he explained.
"I've had some lovely interactions from people of all ages in St Albans while promoting the page. It has already given me something and I hope it will help other people too."
When asked why is it only for men Joe said: "It's not meant to be exclusionary, we recognise those spaces should absolutely exist and maybe we can do an event with other clubs in the future.
"Men's mental health is such a huge issue and I'd love for that to be the focus at a run club where there's no pressure.
"Bring your friends, family, your dog, anybody who would like to come down."
Share