Known as Run January, the aim behind this is to encourage the public to get a healthy start to the New Year, by reaching a fitness goal of their choosing. This could be anything from running a 5k to a full marathon (or somewhere in-between) and support will be available every step of the way. For the duration of the event, participants will receive a collection of training materials, exercise plans, and video guides to help them complete their given challenge by the 31stJanuary.
Recognising the impact that lockdown has had on everybody in these difficult times, DBTH is backing the campaign as a way of promoting better health and wellbeing in 2021. What’s more, Run January also gives people the opportunity to donate to their local hospitals, as participants will be raising funds for the Trust itself. The money will be directly invested into patient care at DBTH, as well as in facilities at both the Doncaster and Bassetlaw sites.
Speaking about her own athletic experience, Claire Wright, Deputy Principal Cardiac Physiologist at the Trust, said: “I first began running when my weight had started to get out of control. I had reached the point where I no longer felt good about myself and was even avoiding activities where I thought a lot of walking would be involved. For me, running wasn’t necessarily about losing weight, although that was very important, but about getting fitter. Along with the support and encouragement of my friends, I went to Clumber Parkrun for the first time and walked it. Everyone was so supportive but I could only manage half the distance and was completely exhausted.’’
Since then, Claire has committed to running a full 5K at least twice a week and has even completed a few 10Ks as well. She added: “I feel so much healthier now – having lost almost 4 stone – and no longer hesitate when someone suggests a long walk. If anyone is thinking about doing a run, I would say believe in yourself, its hard work yet is worth all the effort. The running community is so supportive and will welcome you with open arms. I love being outside in the fresh air, I love the way I feel after a run, and I have seen more beautiful places in and around my local area that I didn’t know existed before’’.
Jonathan Frary, Director of Curly’s Athletes, said: ‘’We’re delighted to be working with the team at DBTH with our Run January FREE challenge. Throughout January we hope to inspire, motivate and support people into running, and to help those who already run to enjoy it even more! Starting 2021 with a more active lifestyle is something we can all do to support our NHS, our community and our personal and mental health. Everyday were sharing running hints and tips, alongside giving people the opportunity to fundraise to support their local NHS.’’
Donations from Run January will go towards funding things that help DBTH to go above and beyond, such as adaptive equipment for frail and elderly visitors, as well as toys for youngsters staying on wards and specialist diagnosis tools. To take part in the campaign, you can sign up here: https://runjanuary.co.uk/ For any more information, please contact dbth.charity@nhs.net