According to official figures, more than six million runs were completed using the NHS Couch to 5km app in 2022 - and some of those runs were mine! This time last year I was gradually returning to running after having a baby (read all about it here) and the NHS Couch to 5km app was like my best friend guiding me back to fitness. In fact, its the app I go to whenever I’ve had some time out from running, pregnancy or not, and it’s the one I always recommend when anyone tells me they want to start running.

Why do I like the NHS Couch to 5km app so much? It’s simplicity. Everything about the app is simple. The interface is so easy to use, it’s easy to see your progress without feeling overwhelmed about what’s to come, it’s encouraging and supportive without being naff and the plan itself is really sensible. There’s never the risk you’ll do too much to soon and get injured. It’s simply everything you need when you’re stating out. And it’s FREE.

Of course, the aim of the Couch to 5km program is to run a 5km at the end of it, and what better way to celebrate your achievement than by running a great 5km race?! Nothing beats the atmosphere of a good race, or the feeling of that medal around your neck and putting the time and commitment into training. Plus, having a race in the diary can really help when it comes to staying motivated if things start to feel a bit tough.

Here are 5 races that’ll be the perfect way to end your Couch to 5km journey if you start either this week or next week.

RunThrough Run Dorney 5km

Sunday March 5 2023

It’s no secret that I have a lot of time for RunThrough races (read my report from their Battersea Park Christmas 5km here), they’re well organised, friendly and really reasonably priced, which is everything I want from a race. Run Dorney 5km is a great option if you’re looking to set a benchmark time for the 5km, it’s flat and fast laps of the artificial rowing lake that was one of the London 2012 Olympic venues and grounds are the perfect backdrop for any run. Oh and as it’s RunThrough you can look forward to celebrating with delicious flapjack at the finish line!

Entry to Run Dorney is £26 and you can find out more here.

Richmond Park 5km

Sunday 12 march 2023

There’s not many races where you risk coming face to face with a deer without even stepping outside of the M25, but Richmond Park 5km is one of the few. Set in one of the prettiest corners of London this race takes you in a loop through the historic park and is great for beginners and experienced runners alike.

Entry to the Richmond Park 5km is £22, and you can find out more here.

Bath Two Tunnels Railway Race 5km

Sunday 12 March 2013

If you’re in the West Country and fancy something a little different then this unique experience running through the Somerset and Dorset Railway tunnels could be just the thing! Cutting under the city of Bath this very special race takes in the well-lit railway tunnels and stretches of Bath’s beautiful roads. It’s definately one that’s on my bucket list!

Entry to the 5km costs £18-20, and you can find out more here.

MK Festival of Running 5km

Sunday 12 march 2023

With a reputation for being friendly and well organised the MK Festival of Running 5km is a great option if you’ve never raced before. The course itself is mostly flat and if you were worried that MK would be all concrete and roundabouts think again because it’s a lot prettier than you might expect!

Entry to the 5km costs £8-12, and you can find out more here.

parkrun

every saturday morning, 9am

Ok, so it’s not a race and you won’t get a medal (unless your friends and family are nice enough to provide one!), but parkrun is a great way to round off your Couch to 5km journey. These weekly timed races are totally free and there’s usually one within easy-ish reach wherever you live. Every parkrun I’ve ever been to has been amazingly friendly and supportive and it’s a great way to get more involved in the running community.

Find out more here.