Writtle University College and ARU have merged. Writtle’s full range of college, degree, postgraduate and short courses will still be delivered on the Writtle campus. See our guide to finding Writtle information on this site.

Running groups at ARU

A group of runners running towards the camera

ARU's running groups aim to provide fun, friendly, supportive and inclusive running opportunities whatever your ability.

Running in a group can help you stay motivated and focused on running. It is a great way to meet new people who like to run and talk. You are also less likely to skip a session if there are people expecting you to turn up.

Running in a group also provides safety and if someone gets injured or feels ill there is always someone there to help.

  • Cambridge group: Thursday 5.-15-6.15pm - meet at Helmore Gym
  • Chelmsford group: Tuesday 5.15-6.15pm - meet at Mildmay Sports Centre

Strava logo

We want to bring together runners from across the Anglia Ruskin University community. Join us on Strava to measure your running achievements and meet other runners.

 

  1. Download the Strava app to an Android device or Download the Strava app to an Apple device
  2. Once downloaded, set up your free account.
  3. Search under the club section for ARU Runners.


If you're new to ARU and want to explore the areas around campus, check out the below routes.

If you'd like to share your own route, please email [email protected].

All of the below are approximate distances.

Cambridge

Chelmsford

One of the great things about running is that it's a simple activity, – but from time to time it's important to remind ourselves that we need to stay safe while running.

Here are some safety tips for you.

  1. Know where you are going and plan a route before you leave your home. Looking confused and lost can make you a target.
  2. Always tell someone where you are going.
  3. Stay on well-travelled and well-lit roads. Don’t take shortcuts through woods or poorly lit areas. Always run against the traffic so you can see any potential dangers coming. You’re much more likely to be able to get out the way quickly of cars or road users if you can see them first.
  4. If possible, run with a friend or in a group. If you have a dog, they can make great running partners.
  5. Ditch the headphones as these can make you vulnerable to approaching traffic and people. If you can’t run without them, then only use one earbud.
  6. Bring your phone and make sure the battery is charged.
  7. Enabling the medical ID function or downloading GPS tracking apps are easy and effective ways your phone can help to keep you safe.
  8. Vary your routes. Don’t be predictable.
  9. Make sure you can be seen by wearing brightly coloured, reflective clothing and use a head torch or flashing armband.
  10. Don’t get distracted. Perpetrators specifically look for people who aren’t 100 percent aware of their surroundings.
  11. If someone looks suspicious to you, cross the street, or go the other way.
  12. Display confidence by maintaining an upright posture.
  13. Trust your gut. If something or someone doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
  14. Conduct a warm up and cool down. This could include a five-minute steady walk and a stretch.