Health & Hustle Event Review: Westonbirt Arboretum 10km & 5km

First Finish Lines of 2026

The 2026 season kicked off in true Health & Hustle fashion as our runners took on the Westonbirt Arboretum 10km and 5km events and what a start it was. Fog hung low over the trees at the beginning, the ground was wet and boggy underfoot, but the team showed up with determination, humour, and that unmistakable H8H grit.  Five of our runners — Kevin, Maxine, Leslie, Theresa, and Zoe — laced up for the 5km challenge. Despite the slippery terrain, spirits were high from the first step to the last.  A special shout‑out goes to Max, who powered through the course and was the first of the group to cross the finish line, with Kevin following close behind. The whole team pushed through the mud, the mist, and the early‑year chill to earn their first medals of 2026.  Taking on the longer distance, Lucia and Nic stepped up to the 10km event and absolutely delivered. The course demanded focus and resilience, but both stayed steady, kept their pace, and crossed the finish line with well‑earned pride.

Fog at the start. Mud everywhere. Slippery patches that kept everyone on their toes. It wasn’t a day for chasing personal bests, it was a day for showing up, sticking together, and proving that the Health & Hustle community is built on perseverance as much as performance.  And that’s exactly what happened.  Every single runner made it to the finish.  Westonbirt set the tone for 2026: teamwork, resilience, and joy in movement. Whether it was 5km or 10km, every participant brought their best and supported one another all the way.  Here’s to many more miles, muddy shoes, and shared victories in the months ahead.

Health & Hustle is officially up and running for 2026 and we’re only just getting started.

New Year Couch to 5KM Progress Update

Progress, Perseverance, and a Whole Lot of Rain

If the New Year Couch to 5k course has proven anything so far, it’s that determination shines brightest in the wettest weather. Since the programme kicked off, our runners have faced more rain than we have seen in any previous cohorts, but not once has it dampened their spirits. In fact, the grit and good humour shown by this group have become the defining features of the course.

Despite being a small group, every single runner is showing remarkable progress. To date, they’ve successfully completed Week 2, Run 3, which includes five intervals of 90‑second running, each followed by a two‑minute recovery walk. It is a challenging session for early weeks, but the team has taken it in their stride, quite literally.

One of the standout strengths of this group is how quickly they have embraced the importance of technique. From breathing patterns to posture and pacing, they are already applying the fundamentals that make running feel smoother, safer, and more sustainable. The results are showing. Confidence is growing. Strides are lengthening. And the belief that “I can do this” is becoming stronger with every session.

This course is not about speed. It’s about endurance, strength, and stamina, building the foundations that will carry each runner through longer intervals and, ultimately, across that 5km finish line. The progress so far shows just how capable this group is.

This Saturday at parkrun, the team steps up to the next milestone: Week 3, Run 1, introducing a new challenge with a combination of 90‑second and 3‑minute running intervals. It’s a big leap, but one they are more than ready for.

Keep an eye out for more updates as this brilliant group continues to grow, push forward, and prove what’s possible when community, commitment, and a little bit of rain come together.

Introducing the Robin Trust Challenge 2026–27

A full year of movement, motivation, and meaningful impact.  From 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2027.  We are inviting you to join a challenge that’s simple, flexible, and designed for everyone. Walk, run, or mix the two and just get moving and contribute to something bigger.

The 1000km Challenge

• Walk it, run it, or combine both
• Every kilometre counts
• Aim for 1000km in a year — around 3km a day for a year.

The Parkrun Challenge - Earn milestone badges as you complete and add to the challenge shirt:

• 🥉 Bronze: 10 parkruns
• 🥈 Silver: 25 parkruns
• 🥇 Gold: 50 parkruns

Miss a parkrun? No stress — any Saturday 5km can count.

Why Join?

Because movement matters.
Because community matters.
Because every kilometre supports the work of the Robin Trust.

Key Dates

• Sign‑ups open: 1 March 2026
• Challenge begins: 1 April 2026
• Challenge ends: 31 March 2027

How to Register

Sign up via our JustGiving page for £25 coming soon

Badges & Merchendise

Milestone badges and the official challenge T‑shirt are available through Gloucester Sports.

Let’s move together, Let’s celebrate every step, Let’s make a difference.

Health&Hustle Couch to 5KM – 2026 Course Schedule Is Here!

There’s something special about seeing people discover their confidence, their rhythm, and their joy in movement. Every year, our Health&Hustle Couch to 5KM programme brings together colleagues, friends, and first‑time runners who want to take that first steps towards a healthier, more connected version of themselves.

In 2026, we are back, bigger, bolder, and ready to support even more people on their journey to reach the 5KM milestone.

As always, our programme blends structure with community. Each week includes:

• A Thursday evening run from Edward Jenner Court, and
• A Saturday morning run at Gloucester City Parkrun, where we join the wider community and build confidence in a supportive, friendly environment.

Below is the full timetable for the first 2026 course.

January 2026

• Thu 8 Jan – W1R1 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 10 Jan – W1R2 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 15 Jan – W1R3 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 17 Jan – W2R1 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 22 Jan – W2R2 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 24 Jan – W2R3 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 29 Jan – W3R1 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 31 Jan – W3R2 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)

February 2026

• Thu 5 Feb – W3R3 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 7 Feb – W4R1 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 12 Feb – W4R2 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 14 Feb – W4R3 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 19 Feb – W5R1 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 21 Feb – W5R2 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 26 Feb – W5R3 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 28 Feb – W6R1 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)

March 2026

• Thu 5 Mar – W6R2 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 7 Mar – W6R3 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 12 Mar – W7R1 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 14 Mar – W7R2 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 19 Mar – W7R3 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 21 Mar – W8R1 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 26 Mar – W8R2 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 28 Mar – W8R3 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)

April 2026

• Thu 2 Apr – W9R1 (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)
• Sat 4 Apr – W9R2 (Meet at Gloucester City Parkrun, Band Stand, 8:30AM)
• Thu 9 Apr – Graduation Run (Meet Edward Jenner Court at 5PM)

Ready to Run, Lead, or Cheer Us On?

Whether you are joining as a participant, stepping up as a run leader, or simply cheering from the sidelines, you are part of something meaningful. Health&Hustle has always been about more than running, it’s about community, confidence, and celebrating every step forward.

New Year, New Me ! H8H Couch is Back in the New Year

Start the new year with a fresh challenge and join our Health&Hustle Couch to 5km programme.

Date: Thursday 8 January 2026

Time: 5:00 PM

Venue: GHC Trust HQ, Edward Jenner Court, 1010 Pioneer Avenue, Gloucester Business Park, Brockworth, Gloucester, GL3 4AW

This course is designed especially for:

 

• 🏃 Non-runners looking to take their first steps

• 💪 Staff wanting to rediscover their running mojo

• 🌍 Anyone who wants to build fitness, confidence, and community spirit

Here’s why you should jump in:

Beginner-Friendly and perfect for all levels, even if running feels daunting.

Community Support, Train alongside others, share experiences, and cheer each other on.

Stay Active All Year and make running part of your lifestyle with seasonal goals and supporting you through difficult changes.

How to Join:

Sign up for the Couch to 5K Programme [Click here to complete the online registration] or contact the Course Leader for more information on email: Health&Hustle

Ready to run? Let’s do it, together!

Enjoy weekly guidance, tips, and community support.  Let’s make running more than just exercise it’s a journey of health, hustle, and personal growth.  No matter your starting point, everyone is welcome. Together, we’ll support each other through every stride. Remember, the hardest part is crossing the start line.

"H8H Jog On" Handling Harassment on Runs

Running should be freeing, not frightening. In this Health  & Hustle Jog On article, we’ll explore how to recognise harassment on runs, practical steps to protect yourself, and actions you can take to reclaim your space with confidence.  Running is meant to be a celebration of movement, health, and freedom. Yet for too many runners, especially women, harassment intrudes on that joy. Surveys show that over two-thirds of women have experienced harassment while running, ranging from catcalling and unwanted comments to being followed or even physically intimidated. This reality can force runners to change routes, avoid certain times of day, or stop running altogether. Jog On is about refusing to let harassment steal that joy, and equipping yourself with strategies to stay safe and empowered.  Recognising Harassment can take many forms. Understanding these behaviors as harassment, not “just part of running” is the first step to reclaiming control.

• Verbal abuse: catcalls, sexist remarks, body shaming, or comments about appearance
• Unwanted attention: being followed, someone running alongside to intimidate, or persistent attempts to talk
• Physical intimidation: unwanted contact, flashing, or threatening gestures

"Here are some actions you can take":

Trust Your Instincts - If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t dismiss discomfort, listen to your gut and act quickly to remove yourself from the situation.

Keep Moving - Experts advise avoiding confrontation, as responding in the moment can escalate the situation. Instead, keep running and head toward a populated or safe area.

Run with Health & Hustle - Joining the Health & Hustle not only builds community but also deters harassment. Shared routes and camaraderie provide both safety and solidarity.

Use Safety Tools

• Share your live location with trusted contacts via apps like Strava Beacon, Garmin Live or Find My Friend
• Carry a personal alarm or whistle for immediate deterrence
• Wear reflective gear and lights to stay visible

Report and Speak Up - While underreporting is common, logging incidents with local authorities or community groups helps highlight the scale of the issue and push for cultural change.

Reclaiming the Run -Harassment is about power and intimidation, but running is about freedom and joy. By arming yourself with strategies, tools, and community, you can push back against fear and reclaim your space. Jog On isn’t just a blog title, it’s a rallying cry. Keep moving forward, keep running, and keep demanding the right to run without harassment.

Key takeaway: Harassment on runs is widespread, but you are not powerless. With preparation, community, and confidence, you can protect yourself and help shift the culture toward respect and safety.  When you go for a run tell someone where you are running, when you are starting, your route and when you come back in form the run.  Stay alert and stay safe.

Robin Trust Challenge 2026: Every Step Count

Get Ready to Move with Purpose The Robin Trust Challenge 2026 launches next March, inviting walkers and runners across the community to take on a year-long mission, complete either 25, 50, 75, or 100 parkruns in a year or go for the 1,000km by either running or walking and help us raise vital funds for our 2026 charity partner the Robin Trust.

Whether you're a seasoned runner, a weekend stroller, or someone simply looking to reconnect with movement, this challenge is for you. It's free to enter, open to all, and designed to celebrate every step, because every step counts.

What’s the Challenge?

• Goal: Run or walk 25 or 50 parkruns or go for the 1,000km between 1 March 2026 and 28 February 2027
• Entry: Free to join 
• Donations: A suggested contribution of £25 helps support Robin Trust’s work, but there's no obligation
• T-shirts: Order your official Robin Trust Challenge tee through Gloucester Sports — bold, black, and built for movement
• Milestones: Celebrate achievements at 25km, 50km, 75km, and 100km with digital badges, shout-outs, and printable certificates.

This is not just about distance, it’s about community, courage, and kindness. Every kilometre logged helps build a culture of wellness and resilience, while supporting Robin Trust’s mission to uplift lives through care and compassion.  Whether you're walking to work, running with friends, or pacing through the park, you’ll be part of something bigger, a movement that celebrates progress, no matter the pace.

How It Works

• Track your progress however you like, You can use our App, Strava, pedometer, printable log sheet, or good old-fashioned guesswork.
• Share your milestones with us to unlock badges and be featured in our monthly shout-outs.
• Order your t-shirt to wear your commitment proudly featuring the Robin Trust logo and “1000 Mile Challenge” design
• Connect with others through social media, local meet-ups, and virtual events

Celebrating Every Step

We believe in celebrating movement, not just the finish line. That’s why we’ve built in milestone moments throughout the year. Hit 25 Parkruns? You’ll earn a badge. Reach 50 Parkruns You’ll get a certificate. Push toward 1,000km? You’ll be part of a community that’s walked and run its way to something extraordinary and receive one of our medals.

Cape Town Connection

This year, we’re proud to include a South African flourish with a Cape Town emblem featured on our official t-shirts. It’s a nod to our growing global community and a reminder that wellness knows no borders.

Health & Hustle 2025: A Year of Movement

From the frosty trails of Westonbirt to the vibrant streets of Cape Town, Health & Hustle members have laced up, showed up, and hustled hard, bringing warmth, courage, and community to every step of their activity  journey.

February: Westonbirt Arboretum 5K - We kicked off the year surrounded by towering trees and crisp winter air. The Westonbirt 5K was a serene yet spirited start, with members embracing the challenge and setting the tone for a year of movement and connection.

March: Gloucester RunThrough 10K & Cape Town Parkrun - Fresh from an inspiring South Africa trip with the Robins Trust, where members joined the Cape Town Parkrun in true Health & Hustle style, we returned to Gloucester with renewed energy. The RunThrough 10K was a celebration of global solidarity and local grit and proof that our community runs deep and wide.

May: Westonbirt Arboretum 10K - Back among the blossoms, the spring edition at Westonbirt saw runners push further, embracing the 10K with determination and delight. The forest trails echoed with laughter, encouragement, and the unmistakable rhythm of shared purpose.

June: Cheltenham Running Festival 5K & Gloucester 10K - June was a double-header of events! The Cheltenham 5K brought festival vibes and playful energy, while the Gloucester 10K tested our endurance and teamwork. Whether sprinting or pacing, every member brought their best and cheered even louder for others.

September: Cheltenham 10K - As summer faded, the Cheltenham 10K reminded us of our strength. With medals clinking and spirits soaring, this event was a masterclass in resilience and camaraderie. Runners supported one another through every hill and high-five.

October: Stroud 10K Finale - We wrapped up the season in Stroud, where autumn leaves matched the golden glow of achievement. The 10K finale was more than a race, it was a celebration of every mile, every moment, and every member who made 2025 unforgettable.

Huge Congratulations to all Participants of the Health & Hustle who signed up, showed up, and gave it their all, thank you. Your courage, kindness, and commitment to the H8H community have made this year extraordinary. Whether you ran, walked, cheered, or volunteered, you’ve helped build a culture of wellness that moves us all forward.

Here’s to more joyful miles, shared stories, and bold strides in 2026!

Health & Hustle Run Camp 2025: Costa Teguise Edition

What a week! The Health & Hustle crew brought their signature blend of movement, joy, and community to the sun-soaked shores of Costa Teguise and it was nothing short of spectacular.  

Mornings That Moved Us - Each day kicked off with a group run through the scenic coastal paths, setting the tone with fresh air, laughter, and shared purpose. Post-run breakfasts were a chance to refuel and reconnect, with plenty of stories and smiles around the table.

Grand Alexandre Teguise: Our Wellness Playground

The hotel became our hub of activity and relaxation:

• 💦 Water aerobics in the pool kept spirits high and muscles moving.

• 🎯 Archery brought out our competitive edge—special shoutout to Jude for nailing the bullseye and taking home gold!

• 🔫 Shooting and darts added playful precision to the mix.

• 🏋️‍♂️ Strength conditioning sessions in the gym helped us build resilience and power.

In between, there was time to swim, sunbathe, and simply unwind because wellness includes rest too.

Entertainment & Exploration - Evenings were filled with hotel entertainment and local adventures. Whether dancing, dining, or discovering hidden gems in town, the crew embraced every moment with warmth and curiosity.

Saturday Sun Run: Community in Motion - The highlight? Saturday’s Sun Run along the Teguise coastline, a vibrant, Parkrun-style event that brought together NHS staff and holidaymakers from Gloucestershire. The energy was electric, the views breathtaking, and the sense of unity unforgettable.

See You in 2026!

The success of this year’s camp has us already counting down to next year. Health & Hustle Run Camp 2026 returns to Costa Teguise from 30th September for 7 nights, departing from Birmingham. The camp is open to all levels, and Jet2 offers a convenient Half Board package including flights and hotel.  Why not join the crew? Whether you’re chasing a PB or just looking to move, laugh, and connect, there’s a place for you in our next adventure.

Health & Hustle Weekly Running Schedule: October Onwards

As the group strides into autumn, Health & Hustle continues to bring movement, motivation, and community connection to every corner of Gloucester. Whether you are easing back into running, building distance with the jeffing technique, or chasing your next parkrun PB, there's a place for you in our weekly schedule.

Here’s what is on offer for all members, all you have to do is sign up on HeyLo and check in for an event and we will see you there:

Monday – Rehab Running Group

Time: 5:00 PM
Meeting Point: Sainsbury’s, Gloucester Quays
Gentle, supportive, and paced for recovery—this group is perfect for those returning from injury or building confidence. Expect encouragement, laughter, and a steady route that prioritises wellbeing.

Tuesday – 5–10K Progressive Run (Jeffing Technique)

Time: 5:00 PM
Meeting Point: Sainsbury’s, Gloucester Quays
Using the jeffing method (run-walk intervals), this session helps runners gradually increase distance and stamina. Ideal for those looking to level up without burnout.

Wednesday – Midweek Run with Loz

Time: 5:00 PM
Meeting Point: Morrisons, Askwith Road (near Saintbridge Surgery)
Led by the ever-energetic Loz, this midweek run blends camaraderie with challenge. Routes vary, but the vibe is always upbeat and inclusive.

Thursday – 5–10K Progressive Run (Jeffing Technique)

Time: 5:00 PM
Meeting Point: Morrisons, Askwith Road (near Saintbridge Surgery)
A second chance to jeff your way through the week! Whether you missed Tuesday or want to double up, this session supports consistent progress.

Saturday – Parkrun + Breakfast

Time: Meet at 8:30 AM at the designated parkrun
Post-run: Join us for breakfast afterwards
Parkrun is our weekly celebration of movement—free, timed, and open to all. We meet at the chosen parkrun location, run together, and then refuel with a well-earned breakfast. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend.

No matter your pace, there's a place for you!
Health & Hustle is more than a schedule, it’s a community built on encouragement, achievement, and joy. Lace up your trainers, show up, and let’s keep moving forward together.

Couch to 5K Graduation Report: A Journey Worth Every Step

As the final footsteps crossed the finish line and the cheers echoed in Edward Jenner Court, we marked the end of another incredible Couch to 5K journey. What began as a collection of hesitant first strides has blossomed into a community of confident runners, each with their own story of grit, growth, and triumph.

Over the past weeks, we have seen determination in motion at the 5pm meeting benches in EJC, Hot Summer conditions and some rainy evenings, where countless moments were choosing to keep going and made all the difference. Whether you sprinted, jogged, or power-walked your way through, you’ve earned your place in this celebration. So to every graduate: well done. You’ve not only completed the programme, you’ve redefined what you are capable of.

Special Recognition

Among our many success stories, two individuals stood out for their exceptional journeys:

Marie was recognised for Outstanding Progress, showing Remarkable Improvement throughout the programme, whether in speed, stamina, or sheer effort. Her transformation was nothing short of inspiring, and her commitment lit a spark in the whole group.

Vic earned recognition for Resilience and Determination, overcoming personal challenges with unwavering consistency. Vic’s ability to push through obstacles and stay the course reminded us all that progress is not always linear, but it is always worth it.

What Comes Next?

Graduation is not the end, it’s the beginning of a new chapter and journey. Whether you’re eyeing a Parkrun or a 10K event, joining our local running groups on Mondays and Wednesdays, or simply enjoying the rhythm of regular movement, the habits you have built here will carry you forward.

To everyone who laced up and showed up: thank you for being part of this journey. You’ve made it more than a running programme, you have defined what our running community is about.

Here’s to every step, every sweat, and every smile. Keep running, keep rising.

Onwards to the Next Couch Course We are taking a short break until 2026, but in the meantime, you're warmly invited to join our Monday and Wednesday training runs—perfect for improving your 5K pace or setting sights on bigger goals like a 10K. Interested? Get in touch with Health&Hustle to keep the momentum going!

Personal Care

Jude’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about healing—it’s about rediscovering joy, connection, and purpose. We’re proud to have her as part of the Health & Hustle family.

 

Health & Hustle Strength Training: Toning, Transformation, and Teamwork

Step into the gym on a Health & Hustle training day, and you’ll feel it immediately: the energy, the focus, the determination. This isn’t about bulking up or chasing extreme physiques—it’s about toning, strengthening, and building a body that feels as good as it looks for those runs outside of the gym environement.

The Philosophy: Strength Without the Bulk

Our strength training sessions are designed with a clear purpose: targeted toning. We focus on arms, chest, and abs, using controlled movements, moderate weights, and high reps to sculpt lean muscle and improve definition. It’s a smart, sustainable approach that builds strength without adding bulk.  This isn’t bodybuilding—it’s body confidence. And it’s working.

The Power of the Warm-Up: 30 Minutes of Cardio

Before we hit the weights, we kick off with 30 minutes of cardio. Whether it’s treadmill intervals, cycling, or rowing, this warm-up gets the heart pumping and the muscles primed. It’s a game-changer.  The cardio not only boosts endurance, it enhances the effectiveness of the strength training that follows. Muscles are more responsive, recovery is faster, and the overall workout feels more dynamic. The combination is helping participants see real changes in tone, stamina, and posture.

Mind-Muscle Connection: Technique Over Intensity

Each session is built around form and control. We’re not chasing personal bests or max lifts, we’re mastering technique. From slow, deliberate bicep curls to perfectly aligned chest presses, every movement is intentional.  The focus on core engagement throughout the session also means abs are constantly activated, even when we’re working other muscle groups. It’s a full-body experience with a targeted twist.

Real Results, Real People

The feedback has been phenomenal. Participants are noticing:

• Improved muscle tone in arms and chest
• Stronger core stability and better posture
• Increased energy levels throughout the week
• Greater confidence in their physical abilities

And perhaps most importantly, they’re enjoying it. The sessions are challenging, yes—but they’re also empowering, energising, and fun, especially when Shannon is in attendance.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re new to strength training or looking to refine your routine, the Health & Hustle sessions at Nuffield offer a welcoming, effective, and results-driven environment. It’s not about lifting the heaviest weights,it’s about lifting yourself up, one rep at a time.

Come for the workout and give it a go!