Please scroll further down this page
for FAQs relating to our
Summer 2023 Membership
and current Winter 2022/23 Membership

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FAQs – Spring 2023
Introduction to Running course

What are the ‘Get Strong for Running’ sessions?

These are conducted by Riptide Health & Fitness.

You are invited to attend 2 separate sessions:

• Monday 24 April (9am or 7pm), PLUS
• Tuesday 2 May (10:30am or 7pm).

Each session lasts 55 minutes, and will take place at Riptide.

The sessions include a range of exercises (carried out to individual abilities), within a fun environment, and are designed to improve strength, posture and range of movement. This will enable you to run more efficiently and help you avoid injury.

These sessions, along with an accompanying video, will prepare you to go on and join any of Riptide’s classes held throughout each week, should you wish to do so

What does the Thursday session involve?

Thursday sessions take place in Hove Park, and are a mix of activities to build stamina and strength. They’ll include, for example, fixed point repetitions, meet-and-retreat activities and short relays. You’ll need to allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour for this.

What is the Sunday run?

The Sunday run will take place on the seafront, normally starting by King Alfred Leisure Centre in Hove. (The first and last Sunday run will probably start from Whitecliffs Café in Saltdean… to be confirmed.) Initially, we will run or run/walk (based on currently ability) for 30 minutes. This will increase by 5 minutes each week. The run will normally start at 8:30am, and it will follow an ‘out-and-back’ route, which means everyone will turn at the halfway point, based on time.

Please allow longer for the first Sunday session, 23 April, to enable us to properly introduce ourselves and give you some additional key info. Full details of the first Sunday session will be provided nearer the time.

How far will we run?

Distance varies depending on speed. We focus on ‘time on feet’ rather than distance, as that’s what ‘out and back’ is based on. This means no one gets left behind, holds anyone back or needs to push themselves beyond their own ability.

Do I need to do additional running on other days?

We recommend you do some short runs/walks on other days, as and when you can. It doesn’t have to be anything formal. Even taking the stairs instead of the lift or escalator will make a difference. If you travel by bus, maybe get off at an earlier stop and get into the habit of walking more than usual.

Do I need to bring water?

Yes, it is advisable to be responsible for your own hydration on the runs. A drinks belt is a good idea. Also, rather than just water, you should consider isotonic drinks.

What if I want to pull out early?

The training runs are predominantly out-and-back courses, so you can turn around earlier than planned if need be. This enables you to walk some of the way, if necessary, in the knowledge that you will be returning with lots of runners behind you, rather than being left behind.

Is it ok to wear headphones on the runs?

We strongly discourage the use of headphones, particularly in the vicinity of roads. They are dangerous, as you can’t hear traffic. Nor can you hear our ambassadors giving out instructions or alerting you to any hazardous situations.

Is it ok to bring my dog on the runs?

Dogs are unfortunately not permitted on the runs. This is because they can be a trip hazard, with or without a lead.

What if I miss a run?

Don’t worry, just turn up when you can, but we would advise you to do the equivalent time on your feet at a convenient time during that week.

Is there a minimum age for joining this course?

Members must be at least 18 years of age on the date of the first run.

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Strava group?

Once you’ve signed up for our Spring 2023 Introduction to Running course, click RunBrighton Strava and request to join.

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Community Forum on Facebook?

Once you’ve signed up for our Spring 2023 Introduction to Running course, click RunBrighton Community Forum and request to join. Please state, where asked, if your Facebook name is different to the name you use to sign up for the course.

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FAQs – Summer 2023 Membership

What is included in the Premium Membership package?

In addition to everything included in the Standard Membership package, listed on the Membership page and in the other FAQs below, Premium Members are entitled to a one-to-one service with RunBrighton’s Mike Bannister, a qualified Coach in Running Fitness with England Athletics. This service includes:

• A one-to-one session of 55 minutes (normal price £50), plus
• £20 off any subsequent one-to-one sessions.*

*The one-to-one sessions to be taken between the time of signing up and the end of the summer 2023 season (24th September).

You can dictate what you want out of the sessions. They could focus on, for example:

• a comprehensive fitness assessment (speed, endurance, strength, flexibility, coordination) & identifying areas for development;
• muscle activation;
• effective dynamic warm-up routines;
• running posture & technique;
• setting realistic goals;
• personalised training session ideas;
• understanding the benefits of training different energy systems;
• race day strategy;
• etc.

When are the Summer 2023 training runs?

Weekly on Sundays, from 4 June to 17 September.

What level does Summer 2023 Membership cater for?

We aim to cater for all levels, ranging from beginners, to experienced runners targeting a half marathon in 1hr40.

What time do the summer runs start?

Between 8:00am and 8:30am. Exact timings to be confirmed.

What distance do we run?

Our Sunday runs are normally based on time on feet, rather than distance. In the summer, the run duration gradually increases from 1hr at the beginning of the season, and we’ll get up to about 2hrs15 by mid September.

What can you tell me about the summer training routes?

The routes are changed regularly and the terrain is varied to include both on and off road, and including both flat and hilly running. They are usually out-and-back courses rather than loops. This is much easier to manage as everyone finishes at broadly the same time. We’ve received some great feedback from our existing members, particularly from those towards the back of the group who are able to enjoy being close to the front on the return leg.

The full details of each Sunday run are issued in a group email, weekly in advance.

Can I park nearby?

Where possible, we aim to base the runs in car-friendly locations, so that you will be able to park easily, i.e. Saltdean Lido, Adur Outdoor Activity Centre in Shoreham, Lancing Beach Green, King Alfred Leisure Centre in Hove, Waterhall, Henfield by the Downs Link, Hove Park, etc. However, in the interest of being nice to our environment, please see if you can jog, cycle or car-share to these venues.

I don’t drive!

Many of the bases will also be accessible by buses or trains. (As above, please see if you can jog, cycle or grab a lift with other runners.) We encourage car share and, each week in a group email, we share details of who can offer a lift / who would like a lift.

What can I do with my belongings whilst I am running?

You are able to store your excess kit / bags with our support vehicle, in an ambassador’s vehicle or at our base location. But please try and keep this to a minimum, and note that although your belongings should be safe, you leave them at your own risk. Please also note that, occasionally when you finish your run, it is possible that the vehicle containing your belongings will not have returned, i.e. in the event of having to collect an injured runner… but this is not normally the case.

Do you have pacers on the summer runs?

We divide into pacing groups based on target half-marathon times, and we have ambassador support spread evenly throughout the whole group.

Please note, however, that the ambassadors are not employed as pacers. The above paces are approximate. The key reason we divide into these groups is to ensure that everyone is running with others of a similar ability.

Please note that the Sunday runs should normally be done at a relaxed, conversational pace, approximately 1 minute-per-mile slower than your target race pace. For example, if you’re targeting a 2hr half marathon, which is approximately 9 minutes per mile, you should be running your Sunday run at about 10 minutes per mile. (This is flexible; you’re not obliged to stick to the same group each week.)

The pacing groups are dictated by half-marathon target times: 1:40, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30+.

In the latter half of the season, some of the runs are done with race-pace efforts in the last hour, for example, but we always make this clear in advance.

Do I just need to do the Sunday runs?

Whilst we accompany you on your long Sunday runs, please don’t rely solely on these runs for your race preparation. You will have far more success, come race day, if you are able to train a minimum of three times a week. Training programs (whether you consider yourself a beginner, an improver or an experienced runner) will be provided to guide you through your midweek training.

The schedules are emailed to you weekly in advance.

When do the weekly training schedules commence?

Our 12-week half-marathon training schedules commence Monday 3 July.

The schedules can be adapted if you are targeting other autumn half/full marathons.

What should I wear?

Please go to a specialist running shop and have your feet and running gait analysed, to ensure you select the most appropriate running shoes. This will help prevent injury. Having both road and off-road shoes is a good idea.

Technical running clothing is also advisable, to provide comfort and warmth, also allowing your skin to breathe. And, of course, you’ll need suitable waterproofs for our rainy runs.

Ladies, it is also worth investing in a suitable sports bra.

Do I need to bring water?

Yes, it is advisable to be responsible for your own hydration on the runs. A drinks belt is a good idea. Also, rather than just water, you should consider isotonic drinks.

What if I want to pull out early?

The training runs are predominantly out-and-back courses, so you can turn around earlier than planned if need be. This enables you to walk some of the way, if necessary, in the knowledge that you will be returning with lots of runners behind you, rather than being left behind.

Is it ok to wear headphones on the runs?

We strongly discourage the use of headphones, particularly in the vicinity of roads. They are dangerous, as you can’t hear traffic. Nor can you hear our ambassadors giving out instructions or alerting you to any hazardous situations.

Is it ok to bring my dog on the runs?

Dogs are unfortunately not permitted on the runs. This is because they can be a trip hazard, with or without a lead.

What if I miss a run?

Don’t worry, just turn up when you can.

When can I enjoy the various discounts that have been negotiated for RunBrighton members?

These are valid from 29 May to 30 September 2023.

What can you tell me about the RunBrighton running holiday in the Algarve?

This is our annual trip that takes place each March. The 2024 dates are yet to be confirmed.

In 2023, we’ll be there from Saturday 11 to Saturday 18 March.

This is around the time of your peak training, if preparing for one of the big, spring marathons. It provides a fantastic opportunity to get in plenty of training without having to worry about the normal pressures of daily life.

It’s organised by 2:09 Events, led by Mike Gratton, winner of London Marathon 1983.

All abilities are accommodated, and you can choose to do as many, or as few, of the planned sessions as you choose.

The weather is typically much better than in the UK, at this time of year, so there’s normally lots of opportunity to hang out in the sun by the pool, or go for a leisurely bike ride and enjoy the surrounding area.

For full details, please email mike@runbrighton.com

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Strava group?

Once you’ve signed up for Summer 2023 Membership, click RunBrighton Strava and request to join.

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Community Forum on Facebook?

Once you’ve signed up for Summer 2023 Membership, click RunBrighton Community Forum and request to join. Please state, where asked, if your Facebook name is different to the name you use to sign up for Summer 2023 Membership.

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FAQs – Winter 2022/23 Membership

What is included in the Premium Membership package?

In addition to everything included in the Standard Membership package, listed on the Membership page and in the other FAQs below, Premium members are entitled to a one-to-one service with RunBrighton’s Mike Bannister, a qualified Coach in Running Fitness with England Athletics. This service includes:

• A one-to-one session of 55 minutes (normal price £50), plus
• £20 off any subsequent one-to-one sessions.*

*The one-to-one sessions to be taken between the time of signing up and the end of the winter 2022/23 season (2 April).

You can dictate what you want out of the sessions. They could focus on, for example:

• a comprehensive fitness assessment (speed, endurance, strength, flexibility, coordination) & identifying areas for development;
• muscle activation;
• effective dynamic warm-up routines;
• running posture & technique;
• setting realistic goals;
• personalised training session ideas;
• understanding the benefits of training different energy systems;
• race day strategy;
• etc.

When are the Winter 2022/23 training runs?

Weekly on Sundays, from 27 November 2022 to 26 March 2023.

(Please note that there will not be an organised group training run on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, both of which fall on a Sunday. However, we will hold replacement long runs on Tuesday 27 December 2022 and Monday 2 January 2023, both of which are bank holidays.) 

(Please note there will not be an organised group training run, 26 February, the day of the Brighton Half Marathon, as most of our runners and ambassadors tend to run in that event.)

What level does Winter 2022/23 Membership cater for?

We aim to cater for all levels, ranging from beginners, to experienced runners targeting a marathon in 3hrs30 (half marathon, 1hr45).

What time do the winter runs start?

Our normal timings are as follows:

Please arrive, 8:00am to 8:20am latest. We get into our respective pace groups at 8:25am. We start running at 8:30am.

If ever the timings should be any different to the above, we will notify members by email, in advance.

What distance do we run?

Our Sunday runs are normally based on time-on-feet rather than distance. In the winter, the run duration gradually increases from 1hr at the beginning of the season, and we’ll get up to about 3hrs to 3hrs15 by mid March.

What can you tell me about the winter training routes?

The routes are changed regularly and the terrain is varied to include both on and off road, and including both flat and hilly running. They are usually out-and-back courses rather than loops. This is much easier to manage as everyone finishes at broadly the same time. We’ve received some great feedback from our existing members, particularly from those towards the back of the group who are able to enjoy being close to the front on the return leg.

The full details of each Sunday run are issued in a group email, weekly in advance.

Can I park nearby?

Where possible, we aim to base the runs in car-friendly locations, so that you will be able to park easily, i.e. Saltdean Lido, Adur Outdoor Activity Centre in Shoreham, Lancing Beach Green, King Alfred Leisure Centre in Hove, Waterhall, Henfield by the Downs Link, Hove Park, etc. However, in the interest of being nice to our environment, please see if you can jog, cycle or car-share to these venues.

I don’t drive!

Many of the bases will also be accessible by buses or trains. (As above, please see if you can jog, cycle or grab a lift with other runners.) We encourage car share and, each week in a group email, we share details of who can offer a lift / who would like a lift.

What can I do with my belongings whilst I am running?

You are able to store your excess kit / bags with our support vehicle, in an ambassador’s vehicle or at our base location. But please try and keep this to a minimum, and note that although your belongings should be safe, you leave them at your own risk. Please also note that, occasionally when you finish your run, it is possible that the vehicle containing your belongings will not have returned, i.e. in the event of having to collect an injured runner… but this is not normally the case.

Do you have pacers on the winter runs?

We divide into pacing groups based on target marathon / half-marathon times, and we have ambassador support spread evenly throughout the whole group.

Please note, however, that the ambassadors are not employed as pacers. The above paces are approximate. The key reason we divide into these groups is to ensure that everyone is running with others of a similar ability.

Please note that the Sunday runs should normally be done at a relaxed, conversational pace, approximately 1 minute-per-mile slower than your target race pace. For example, if you’re targeting a 4hr marathon, which is approximately 9 minutes-per-mile, you should be running your Sunday run at about 10 minutes-per-mile. (This is flexible; you’re not obliged to stick to the same group each week.)

The pacing groups are dictated by marathon target times: 3:30, 3:45, 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00+.

These equate to corresponding half-marathon target times: 1:45, 1:52:30, 2:00, 2:07:30, 2:15, 2:22:30, 2:30+.

In the latter half of the season, some of the runs are done with race pace efforts in the last hour, for example, but we always make this clear in advance.

Do I just need to do the Sunday runs?

Whilst we accompany you on your long Sunday runs, please don’t rely solely on these runs for your race preparation. You will have far more success, come race day, if you are able to train a minimum of three times a week. Training programs (whether you consider yourself a beginner, an improver or an experienced runner) will be provided to guide you through your midweek training.

The schedules are emailed to you weekly in advance.

When do the weekly training schedules commence?

Our 12-week half-marathon training schedules commence Monday 5 December, targeting a half marathon at the end of the 12 weeks.

Our 16-week marathon training schedules commence Monday 12 December, targeting a full marathon at the end of the 16 weeks.

The schedules can be adapted if you are targeting spring half/full marathons on other dates.

What should I wear?

Please go to a specialist running shop and have your feet and running gait analysed, to ensure you select the most appropriate running shoes. This will help prevent injury. Having both road and off-road shoes is a good idea.

Technical running clothing is also advisable, to provide comfort and warmth, also allowing your skin to breathe. And, of course, you’ll need suitable waterproofs for our rainy runs.

Ladies, it is also worth investing in a suitable sports bra.

Do I need to bring water?

Yes, it is advisable to be responsible for your own hydration on the runs. A drinks belt is a good idea. Also, rather than just water, you should consider isotonic drinks.

What if I want to pull out early?

The training runs are predominantly out-and-back courses, so you can turn around earlier than planned if need be. This enables you to walk some of the way, if necessary, in the knowledge that you will be returning with lots of runners behind you, rather than being left behind.

Is it ok to wear headphones on the runs?

We strongly discourage the use of headphones, particularly in the vicinity of roads. They are dangerous, as you can’t hear traffic. Nor can you hear our ambassadors giving out instructions or alerting you to any hazardous situations.

Is it ok to bring my dog on the runs?

Dogs are unfortunately not permitted on the runs. This is because they can be a trip hazard, with or without a lead.

What if I miss a run?

Don’t worry, just turn up when you can.

When can I enjoy the various discounts that have been negotiated for RunBrighton’s Winter 2022/23 members?

These are valid from 21 November to 8 April.

What can you tell me about the RunBrighton running holiday in the Algarve?

This is our annual trip that takes place each March. The 2023 dates are 11-18 March.

This is around the time of your peak training, if preparing for one of the big, spring marathons. It provides a fantastic opportunity to get in plenty of training without having to worry about the normal pressures of daily life.

It is organised by 2:09 Events, led by Mike Gratton, winner of London Marathon 1983.

All abilities are accommodated, and you can choose to do as many, or as few, of the planned sessions as you choose.

The weather is typically much better than in the UK, at this time of year, so there’s normally lots of opportunity to hang out in the sun by the pool, or go for a leisurely bike ride and enjoy the surrounding area.

For full details, please email mike@runbrighton.com

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Strava group?

Once you’ve signed up for Winter 2022/23 Membership, click RunBrighton Strava and request to join.

How do I become a member of the RunBrighton Community Forum on Facebook?

Once you’ve signed up for Winter 2022/23 Membership, click RunBrighton Community Forum and request to join. Please state, where asked, if your Facebook name is different to the name you use to sign up for Winter 2022/23 Membership.

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