Athletics Irelands Fit4life programme supported by the Irish Sports Council’s Women in Sport initiative, continues to go from strength to strength with the latest figures showing that over 70 clubs are now participating in the programme. Fit4Life is designed to support recreational runners throughout the country.

In 2006 the programme was introduced with the initial 25 clubs organizing a series of road races / leagues to encourage the large numbers of recreational runners in Ireland to join Athletics Clubs. In 2007 the programme was adapted to train Fit4Life Leaders to deliver appropriate training in club environments for the recreational jogger, runner and walker.

In 2008 the programme expanded to 50 clubs aimed at developing fitness in a fun sociable environment. The idea was that participants could choose a pace suited to their level of fitness, from beginners through to regular runners with the emphasis on meeting with people of a similar ability on a regular basis to walk or run and make their fitness work more sociable!

The programme still continues to grow, with 2009 seeing the development of a partnership with the Flora Womens Mini Marathon. This, coupled with agencies such as HSE and Local Sports Partnerships supporting the programme is helping to spread the word. Many clubs are enjoying the benefits of increased membership and more adult members through introducing Fit4life to their club.

For further information check out the Fit4Life section on the Athletics Ireland website and find your local group.