Step into fitness with help from Chiltern Athletic Club

THE Chiltern Athletic Club is gearing up for their Scratch Club and inviting community members who wish to revive their fitness journey or start from scratch. Starting from September 3 and continuing until November, the Scratch Club is aimed at people who want to embark on or revive their fitness journey.

The Chiltern Athletic Club is primarily a walking and road-running community with a fantastic social element, accommodating athletes of all levels – from beginners to those training for events such as marathons or the Comrades.

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The club was founded in 1978, evolving from the Chiltern Sports Club, and has now grown into a community structure for fitness and social events.

Speaking on the programmes they offer for the community, Adam Walker of the Chiltern Athletic Club said their various programmes and events include weekly runs/walks, training sessions and social gatherings.

“These programmes aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment where members can achieve their personal fitness goals. Our commitment extends beyond physical fitness – we strive to contribute to the overall well-being of our community by encouraging teamwork, volunteerism and a spirit of camaraderie. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting out, the Chiltern Athletic Club welcomes you to join us in making a positive impact on our community,” he said.

Club member Rorke Shirley speaks on his experience of how the club revived his fitness journey from being a smoker for years.

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“When I joined the Scratch Club in 2017, I got 200m down the road before my lungs were burning and my head was screaming at me, asking what the heck I thought I was doing and that I had better stop right now before I fall over. For fear of embarrassing my kids, that first day, I pressed on and managed to complete 2km in just under 15 minutes. I was so stiff for days afterwards that I seriously doubted my life choices.

“Every Tuesday and Thursday after that, though, I persevered, and with the help and motivation of my kids and Chiltern’s Scratch Club mentors, I managed to complete the 10-week programme and do my first and longest 8km run since 1989,” he said.

The club is calling on the community to embark on their fitness journey and transform their well-being. Community members who wish to join can email chiltern.athletic@gmail.com.

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