Rookie Runners
Rookie Runners is a Derbyshire Mind 12 week running programme for anyone looking to start or continue to build on their running journey whilst looking after their wellbeing along the way.
Our free 12 week Couch to 5k programmes are aimed at people who want to improve their mental wellbeing through being physically active in a supportive and friendly group. Whether your aim is to reduce stress, improve your mood, run a 5k or meet new people.
If you have you recently completed a Couch to 5k and are wondering what’s next? Or maybe you’re already running 5k comfortably and feel ready to take the next step? There's our Rookie Runners Step Up Programme that is the perfect way to build on your progress. Over 12 weeks, we’ll focus on the science of running — exploring technique, form, strength, and endurance — all designed to help you feel more confident and capable as a runner. This programme isn’t about speed or chasing big times. It’s for anyone who is happy running 5k and wants to keep moving forward at their own pace.
Our qualified run leader will take you from Couch to 5k in 12 weeks and onwards in your running journey, giving you the confidence to keep going, join a parkrun or to continue to run independently. Come along and give it a go!
What is Rookie Runners?
Derbyshire Mind’s Rookie Runners, based on the Buxton Movers model is a 12 week running programme both for beginners and more advanced runners. Our groups will be led by 2 qualified Run Leaders and we will always have 2 Derbyshire Mind Wellbeing Volunteers at the sessions running with you, who are great listeners and ready to chat with you.
The Couch to 5k 12 week programme will ease you into running gently and give you the confidence to run a 5k distance by the end of the sessions. The group are friendly and supportive and are there to help you achieve your goal and answer any questions you may have.
After graduating the 12 week programme, you can move onto one of our step up programmes with our Derbyshire Mind or choose to fly the nest into the world of running and we can help support you find a local running group near you.
How does running help with our wellbeing?
Evidence shows that people with mental health problems are more likely than the general population to have physical health problems, yet they face additional barriers to becoming active. We know that getting active can have a positive impact on your physical health, but it can really impact your mental health too. It can reduce your risk of depression by between 20-30%, lift your mood and improve your self-esteem.
Running is a great way to raise endorphins in a social setting. It was one of the most popular activities on Mind’s Get Set to Go programme and is well documented to improve mental wellbeing with the widely discussed ‘runner’s high’ (endorphin release).
Regular running helps lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. It also helps manage anxiety by providing a form of physical release for tension and nervous energy. It can also contribute to better sleep quality by regulating your sleep patterns and reducing insomnia. Good sleep is crucial for mental health, as it affects mood, cognitive function, and overall emotional stability.
Group Details:
The next Rookie Runners running programme will be our Step Up Programme running group starting on Thursday 11th September 2025 at 6pm and will run weekly for 12 weeks.
Dates: Thursdays (weekly for 12 weeks)
Times: 6pm till 7pm
Location: Meeting point is at Derby Arena, Royal Way Pride Park, Pride Park DE24 8JB.
Cost: All sessions are free
What will I need to bring with me: We encourage you to bring only essential items with you to the sessions. A water bottle to stay hydrated and please wear comfortable trainers and layers that can be removed.
Group Leaders: Sessions are run by Qualified run leaders and supported by Derbyshire Mind Wellbeing Volunteers
If you are interested in joining in our group of runners, you can book your place now:
If you would like to find out more information or enquire about booking onto future 12 week sessions with Rookie Runners, please get in touch by emailing:
community@derbyshiremind.org.uk
Where will we meet?
Our Group meeting spot will be inside Derby Arena near the café area.
We can park for free in the Derby Arena Car park but you do need to remember to add your car registration details to the parking pod when you arrive. You will find the registration pods inside the arena not far from the café / reception area. This allows three hours free parking.
We have use of the toilet and changing facilities too if you need to use these. Lockers are available (padlock required). They have a café which will be open till 8pm on Thursday evening if you fancy a refreshing drink after our session.
As our running group is a member of the Derby Arena Run Hub, you will be eligible for corporate membership at Derby Arena at a price of £23.99 per month, instead of £26.99. This allows use of the gym and classes, where programmes and personal training sessions are available.
A one off session named ‘Strength and Conditioning for Runners’ focusing on the importance of strength exercises whilst running, is available at a price of £25 for any club member even if you do not wish to sign up with a membership. If you are interested in the above offers from Derby Arena, please let us know when joining our running group and we can make sure someone gets in touch with you to get you booked in.