This Global Running Day, we’re celebrating the power of running to bring people together and its impact beyond physical fitness.
For the team behind Miles That Matter, running has become a way to build community, open conversations and support mental health, especially for young men.
More than just a run club
Miles That Matter is an inclusive running group shaped by the loss of a close friend, Jake, to mental health late last year. Jake was known as the motivator, always signing up to the next race, the next challenge… and that spirit stuck with his friends.
After the four founders ran the Scunthorpe 10k and each achieved personal bests, they were energised by the moment and decided to keep running together, motivated and inspired by the drive of carrying something forward in Jake’s memory.
Running soon became more than just training.
It created a space to talk, to reflect or simply to be alongside others without pressure.
“We run for fitness. We stay for the conversations that matter.”
Creating a space where no one struggles alone
From the beginning, the aim was to build something meaningful.
“Starting this run club was about building more than fitness, it’s about creating a space where showing up for your mental health is just as important as showing up for your miles.”
The founders recognised something that many people experience but don’t always talk about. TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE STRUGGLING IN SILENCE.
“This run club is about movement, connection and breaking the stigma around mental health, especially for young men. Everyone deserves a space to breathe, move and be heard, no judgement, just support.”
At its core, Miles That Matter is about making sure people don’t have to carry things alone.
A community built on connection
The group is open to everyone. While most members are in their 20s and 30s, it welcomes all ages, abilities and backgrounds, including men, women and families.
Sessions are structured but relaxed, creating a friendly and supportive environment for new and existing members. Participants can expect:
- Time to chat before sessions
- A group warm-up and structured run
- The option to socialise afterwards
But what sets the group apart isn’t just the structure, it’s the atmosphere it creates.
Running side by side removes the pressure that can come with difficult conversations.
“It’s easier to open up next to someone rather than face to face.”
There’s no expectation to say anything, its just about turning up. Over time, trust builds, friendships form and conversations happen naturally.
The impact of simply showing up
For many members, Miles That Matter has already made a real difference.
One member shared:
“I’m really glad I found the run club. I needed it for my mental health, I was in a rut and had no purpose with my fitness”
Another said:
“It’s shown me that I’m capable of a lot more that I think I am. Everyone in the group is so positive and supportive.”
The founders have felt the impact too:
“It’s been really rewarding to see people become friends and watch the community grow. It gives us purpose to turn up each week.”
Breaking the stigma around men’s mental health
The loss of a friend, bought into focus the stigma around men talking about mental health that still exists, with the group developing out of a need for a space where men can talk openly.
“We were the same. A lot of men don’t show emotion, and it took losing a close friend for us to realise how important it is to talk.”
By creating a space where people connect through shared activity, Miles That Matter is helping to break down those barriers, one step and one conversation at a time.
“We are what we are because something really difficult happened and we decided something needed to change.”
Looking ahead
The ambition is simple: to keep growing and keep spreading the message that mental health matters.
For anyone considering getting involved, their message is simple:
“Take the jump, what’s there to lose? You’ll meet new people, improve yourself, and be part of something positive.”
Because sometimes, the hardest step is simply showing up.
And no one should have to take it alone.
The group hosts weekly sessions open to all abilities. Track nights take place every Wednesday from 6–7pm at Yarborough Track, alongside longer, more relaxed runs every Sunday from 9am, starting at different local coffee shops.
How to get involved
For the latest updates, follow Miles that Matter’s Instagram page @mtm.runclub, where details are regularly shared. If you’re interested in joining, simply send them a message to be added to their WhatsApp group.