A running resource for women
The trials and tribulations of a 50-year-old woman trying to run quite far up hills.
Because running is fun.
And running is for everyone.
Hi, I'm Claire. I'm 50, mum to two boys, a Bristol-based runner, personal trainer, run leader, blogger, marketing professional and community builder.
I created Play Running Club to help women discover the freedom, confidence and adventure that running can bring. Whether you're taking your first steps, training for a race or dreaming of going further than you ever thought possible, you'll find practical advice, honest stories and plenty of encouragement here.
Because it’s never too late to start, and extraordinary things can happen when women realise what they're capable of.
Resources
Start running
This is your friendly guide to starting running at 50 and beyond. Find simple, confidence-building advice for beginners and returners, including pacing, breathing, run-walk strategies, motivation and injury-free tips for older women who want to start running. Everything here is designed to help you feel capable, supported and ready to take your first steps.
Trail Running
Discover the joy of trail running for beginners, especially women in midlife who want adventure without intimidation. Learn how to start trail running safely, what kit you actually need, how to build confidence on uneven terrain, and the best beginner-friendly trails to explore. This is your gateway to trail running at 50 and loving every muddy step.
Strength for runners
Everything you need to build strong, resilient legs with strength training for runners over 50. Find quick at-home workouts, mobility routines, glute and hip strengthening, balance work, and simple progressions that fit busy lives. These sessions help female runners stay injury-resistant, improve power and enjoy every run.
Races
Running events are one of my favourite things, so this is your go-to guide for all things event-related, from your first 5k parkrun to the London Marathon and those wonderfully wild 24-hour relays.
My running journey
Follow my honest midlife running journey, including marathon training, ultras, setbacks, lessons and breakthroughs. This section offers relatable insight into running in your 40s and 50s, showing the real path behind every finish-line photo and offering encouragement for anyone chasing their next big goal.
Nutrition
Nutrition can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be. This section is all about simple, realistic fuelling for runners, what to eat day-to-day, how to fuel your runs, and what actually helps on event day.
