Run Leading

Run leaders are the heart of our weekly club runs, helping create a safe and welcoming environment that caters for a wide array of abilities. Without them, our weekly runs simply wouldn’t happen.

Run Leader role and responsibilities

Planning and navigating group runs, leading at the advertised pace and adjusting as needed to ensure no one is left behind.
Welcoming new members, helping them feel comfortable, informed, and part of the club.
Promoting safe running, following club guidelines, best practice and good route planning.
Communicating clearly, setting expectations before each run and giving clear instructions throughout.
Representing the club, modelling our values and contributing to a friendly, inclusive atmosphere at all times.

Key considerations for Run Leaders

Route Planning:

Knowing a route in advance and ensure it is suitable for the conditions (e.g. well‑lit options in winter, shaded routes on hot days). A list of regularly used club routes can be found here.
Considering terrain, traffic levels, and any known hazards.

Pre-run Checks:

Ensuring group sizes do not exceed 15 runners in total and that groups of 11 or more have a designated co-leader.
Identifying first‑timers and checking for any injuries, disabilities, or vulnerabilities that may require additional support.
Briefing the group on the route, pace, and any other relevant safety points (e.g. hi-viz in winter, water in summer).

Leading:

Sticking to the advertised pace and building in breaks where appropriate or when requested (2–3 stops is typical for groups running 8:00+ /mi).
Highlighting hazards to the group clearly and early.
Always crossing roads at designated crossings where possible, even if this means waiting for lights.
Incorporating water stops in warm weather.
Taking regular head counts and checking in with the group throughout a run.

Post‑Run:

Counting the group back in to confirm everyone has returned safely.
Leading a short stretching routine or inviting group members to contribute a stretch.

Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF)

The Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) course is designed to prepare individuals to provide a safe and enjoyable running experience for runners of any ability. The training covers essential areas such as risk assessment, warm‑ups and cool‑downs, and how to plan and lead sessions for mixed‑ability groups. For those who want to develop further, a LiRF is also the first step towards more advanced coaching qualifications, including the Coaching in Running Fitness (CiRF).

Whilst the LiRF qualification helps to develop greater confidence, awareness, and relevant skills, it is not a requirement to lead at our club runs. Many of our regular leaders begin by simply shadowing experienced leaders, co-leading or taking responsibility for a familiar pace group. The club values enthusiasm, confidence, reliability, and a welcoming attitude just as much as formal training.

Chorlton Runners LiRF Eligibility

Club members wishing to complete a LiRF qualification funded by the club need to meet one of the following criteria:

1) Identified as a prospective club coach.

2) Want to support lower or mixed‑ability groups.

3) Want to be the club’s Run Leader Coordinator.

4) Regularly leading club sessions without a LiRF or CiRF present.

Exceptions to the above may be granted where a member can present a substantial business case. These decisions are made at the discretion of the Run Leader Coordinator.