1. General Principles
- FitChic provides a platform to connect runners with local coaches and does not organise or supervise sessions directly.
- All sessions are led by independent coaches who are responsible for their own insurance, qualifications and risk assessments.
- Participation is entirely voluntary. By joining a session, runners accept that running carries some risk and agree to run within their own limits.
2. For Runners
Before you join
- If you have any medical conditions or concerns, speak to your GP before starting a new exercise routine.
- Bring suitable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing and, where needed, a small water bottle.
- If you’re unsure what level group is right for you, ask the coach – they’d rather you start easier than overdo it.
During the session
- Always follow the coach’s instructions.
- Tell the coach if you feel unwell, dizzy or in pain – there is no shame in stopping.
- Run no more than two abreast on paths, be courteous to other park users, and follow the Highway Code at road crossings.
- Use common sense with valuables – FitChic and the coaches can’t take responsibility for lost property.
After the session
- Cool down and stretch as directed.
- Let your coach know if you pick up an injury so they can help you ease back in sensibly next time.
3. For Coaches
- Choose well-lit, public routes, avoiding isolated areas, especially for evening sessions.
- Begin every session with a short briefing on the route and expected pace.
- Include a warm-up and cool-down as standard.
- Carry a mobile phone and know the location of the nearest meeting point or landmark for emergency services.
- Keep group sizes at a level you can safely manage; if numbers grow, consider splitting into two pace groups.
- Encourage a culture of “no one left behind” – either loop back or have a front-runner wait at set points.
- Log any incidents (falls, near misses) for your own records and adjust routes if needed.
4. Respect & Behaviour
- All groups should be welcoming and respectful – no judgement on pace, body type, age or background.
- Harassment, bullying, or inappropriate behaviour are not tolerated.
- FitChic reserves the right to remove any coach or group from the directory where behaviour falls below these standards.
5. Contact
If you have concerns about a group or coach listed on FitChic, please contact us at team@fitchic.co.uk so we can look into it.