How the Health & Hustle started in 2016

In 2004, I left the Armed Forces after completing 25 years’ service.  At the time of discharge I had an under active thyroid and was diagnosed with asthma. In 2009 I was struck down with a devastating illness which resulted in me being admitted to hospital.  I can’t describe what goes through your mind when you suddenly lose your sight, your speech and you are dis empowered to make your own decisions. Days went past in a blur of unbelievable pain, paralysis, MRIs, CAT scans, trips to ophthalmology, morphine and hopelessness. Time passed and the frustrations grew as there were still no answers, still no diagnosis – just the message that there was nothing wrong with me… until one day, bingo! Click here to read more..........

We have alot of success stories showing the impact the Health & Hustle has had on many of our members, the inspiration of success is priceless and worth a read.  Click here to read more success stories.........

Worcester 10km Review — A Tough Course, A Strong Team, A Rain‑Free Finish

Hosted by Tempo | Sunday Morning Challenge

The Worcester 10km delivered everything you would expect from a Tempo event organisation, atmosphere, and a course that doesn’t give you a single kilometre for free.

For Team H8H2026, the day began with a very early 6.30am start to secure parking, thanks to the limited spaces around Sixways. Once we found the Event HQ beside the Worcester Warriors ground, race numbers were collected and we suddenly had a couple of hours to fill. The calm before the storm.

When the race finally got underway, the course revealed its true character quickly. The long, narrow single‑track stretch along the Worcester canal was scenic but unforgiving. With barely any room to overtake, it became a test of patience as much as endurance, legs working hard, pace dictated by the pack, and every stride demanding focus.

Coming off the canal and back onto the roads, the challenge only intensified. The final 5km delivered a series of uphill sections that felt relentless. Each incline chipped away at the legs, and by the time the downhill finish arrived, the body was grateful but absolutely feeling the effort.

Despite the toughness of the route, the team delivered an incredible performance. All of us finished within a minute of each other, a testament to consistent pacing, strong training, and sheer determination. The kilometre splits tell the full story of a course that never let up.

And the best victory of the day? beating the rain. The skies held off just long enough for Team H8H2026 to cross the line, collect ourselves, collect our medals and celebrate a hard‑earned finish. A brilliant effort all round. A tough course conquered. A team that showed up and delivered.

Celebrating 10 Years of Movement, Community & Unstoppable Spirit

Ten years ago, Health & Hustle began as a simple idea, bringing NHS colleagues together, get people moving, and create a space where anyone, absolutely anyone could take that first step toward better health. What it all started as a small QI project in 2016, the Hustle has grown into a community that has changed lives, shaped friendships, and inspired hundreds across Gloucestershire.

This anniversary iis not just a milestone. It’s a story and these pictures tell it better than words ever could.

A Decade of Hustle Captured Forever

As the video closes with images from our 10‑year celebration, it’s impossible not to feel proud. Proud of the people who took a chance on themselves, proud of the friendships built along the way and proud of a community that continues to grow, support, and inspire.

For me as a founder, the greatest privilege has been running alongside people who once doubted they could finish a minute of jogging and now push themselves to new heights. These pictures capture that journey better than any words ever could.

Here’s to the Next 10 Years

Health & Hustle has never been about perfection. It is about progress, community, and the belief that movement can change lives. To everyone who has been part of the story "thank you". To those thinking about joining, there is always space for you. Just turn up, and we will do the rest.

Cheltenham Running Festival – Sunday 14 June 2026

We are also inviting all members to join us at the Cheltenham Running Festival on Sunday, 14 June 2026. 
https://www.cheltenhamrunningfestival.com/ Whether you would like to register for the 5km event or simply come along to cheer on our runners and reconnect with past members, it promises to be a fantastic day of celebration and camaraderie.

Don’t miss these special events as Health&Hustle celebrates 10 incredible years. Let’s make every step count!

Robin Trust 1000KM Challenge

The Robin Trust 1000KM Challenge: One Year. One Mission. One Incredible Cause. 

On 6 June 2026, as the world marks the anniversary of the D‑Day landings, we launch something truly special. A challenge rooted in remembrance, resilience, and community spirit for the Robins Trust.

Introducing the Robin Trust 1000KM Challenge A year‑long journey inviting you to walk or run 1,000 kilometres in support of the vital work of the Robin Trust providing care at home, sub acute rehabilitation and dementia care.

Whether you are a seasoned runner, a weekend walker, or someone simply looking for a meaningful goal, this challenge is your chance to make every step count.

How It Works

Taking part is simple, accessible, and open to everyone.

• Sign up for just £10 through our JustGiving Page

• You’ll receive a link to join our tracking app, where you can log your walking or running distance throughout the year along with counting how many parkruns you complete in a year

• The challenge runs from 6 June 2026 to 6 June 2027

• Complete the 1000KM target at your own pace daily walks, weekend hikes, parkruns, treadmill miles… it all counts

This is your challenge, your journey, your impact.

Why 1000KM?

The distance is symbolic and a tribute to endurance and the collective strength shown by everyone who takes part. By taking on this challenge, you will be helping to build a safer, healthier future for those supported by the Robin Trust.

Every kilometre you log helps raise awareness, Every donation helps us continue our mission and Every participant becomes part of something bigger.

Who Can Take Part?

Absolutely anyone.

• Individuals

• Families

• Workplace teams

• Running clubs

• Schools and community groups

You can take it on solo or rally as a team, the more steps, the stronger the impact.

Your Tracking App

Once you sign up, you’ll receive a link to join our dedicated tracking platform. This is where you’ll:

• Log your kilometres

• Track your progress

• Celebrate milestones

• Stay motivated with updates and community stories

It’s simple, intuitive, and designed to keep you moving.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Lace up. Step out. Make history with us.

Sign up for £10 on our JustGiving Page and begin your 1000KM journey on 6 June 2026.

Together, we will walk a year with purpose honouring the past, supporting the present, and shaping a better future for the Robin Trust.

Click the Winners Medal to Enter!

Couch to 5km Course Completed — A New Wave of Hustlers Graduate at Kingsway Parkrun

Saturday 18 April marked another proud milestone for Health&Hustle as four new members officially graduated from our Couch to 5km programme at Kingsway parkrun. What a morning it was full of excitement, determination, and ultimately, achievement. From the very first session, this group showed commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to trust the process. By Week 5 Run 3, something clicked. Their confidence grew, their pacing settled, and the longer runs that once felt daunting suddenly became achievable. Every technique practised such as breathing, posture, pacing, mindset came together on graduation day. They did not just complete the course, they exceeded every expectation.

A Community That Keeps Moving Forward

A huge congratulations to each of our graduates who are already continuing their journey, now training towards 10km events in September. This is exactly what Health&Hustle is about, taking that first step, building momentum, and discovering what is possible with the right support around you. We are incredibly proud of how far they have come, and even more excited about where they’re heading next. A special shout‑out goes to Nic Dowdeswell, who completed her Run Leader training during the course. Nic is now a permanent member of our run leader team, helping to deliver the programme and support future runners. Her energy, encouragement, and lived experience of the journey make her an invaluable addition to the group.

No Time to Rest as The Next Course Begins

With barely a moment to catch our breath, we are already gearing up for the next wave of runners. Week 1 Run 1 kicks off on Thursday 23 April as we launch our second Couch to 5km course of the year. New faces, new stories, new goals and the same supportive, inclusive community ready to welcome everyone.

Health & Hustle Race Review: Tewkesbury Half & 10km

Sunday 12 April — A Day of Grit, Good Vibes, and Gorgeous Views

What a day for Team Health & Hustle. Our runners showed up with determination, positivity, and that unmistakable Health&Hustle spirit and it paid off beautifully.  Despite the unexpected hiccups with the shuttle buses and the delayed start, everyone took it in their stride. It was classic Health & Hustle: stay calm, stay together, and make the best of whatever the day throws at you.  Once the race got underway, we could not have asked for better weather. Sunshine, cool air, and just enough breeze to keep things interesting, although the back‑route wind certainly made its presence known. Add in a few cheeky gradients and it became a proper test of strength and mindset. But every single one of our runners rose to the challenge.  The course rewarded the effort with stunning views across Tewkesbury’s countryside, and the town support was nothing short of brilliant. From cheers on the corners to families lining the streets, every shout and clap gave our runners that extra lift.

Most importantly, everyone finished with a smile. The feedback was unanimous: a fantastic event, a great atmosphere, and another proud moment for the Health & Hustle community.  To everyone who took part, whether it was your first event or your fiftieth, memebers represented the very best of what we stand for resilience, inclusivity, and determination to complete the course

Here’s to the next event in May, where members join the Worcester Half/10km. 

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.