Running in St Andrews is a glorious thing: endorphins for miles, the cleansing purge of perspiration, a playlist full of guilty pleasures,  and the North Sea breeze in your hair. It’s no wonder West Sands played host to the cast of Chariots of Fire.

But for some people, running in St Andrews comes with a price tag. Sore knees. Aching hips. Shortened hamstrings and tight hip flexors. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be that way. Bodies are remarkable machines and with proper footwear and routine maintenance, it is possible to prevent and rebound from injuries. It is possible to find joy in running and enjoy all the pleasure without the pain.

Everyone needs good posture and a strong core to avoid back pain and move freely through their day but for men and women who are training for a race, posture and core strength are crucial for success. Did you know that combining the strengthening discipline of Pilates with a running regime is one of the most effective ways to improve posture, strengthen your core, prevent injury and elevate your ability to run? It’s true. And this Saturday, Claire Birch wants to personally show you how.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Claire. I left the RAF 4 years ago and now work part time as a Pilates instructor and personal trainer. It keeps me active and allows me to meet new people. My old job with the RAF was very exciting and demanding and I have since learned that I am no good at full time desk-bound work. This is the perfect mix!

Why do you love running?
It’s a great (and cheap!) way to relax and shake off stress. The added benefits are getting lean and being able to challenge yourself endlessly. There are new goals everywhere you go.

Besides equipping people to care for their bodies, what about the Runners Workshop are you looking forward to most?
I am so excited to bring together people who share a common passion. The participants will not only learn from me. I have found that people’s shared passion breeds a desire to do what they love more and to take on challenges together. Often people make new friends along the way. Saturday is going to be a great time.

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If you have goals to run this year, don’t run your body into the ground as you train. This Saturday’s workshop is for you. Claire will equip you with personalized tools to care for your body as you take on your goals. Join her at the studio from 12:00-2:00pm. Book a spot today.