A new Wigan running offers men a simple way to get outside, move and grab a coffee
New running club in Wigan is helping men get outside and get active
A new weekly running club in Wigan is giving men a simple way to get out of the house, move their bodies and start the weekend differently.
Runner Beans Run Club was recently set up by Phil Williams and the early response has been encouraging, with four men attending the first session and staying afterwards for coffee.
While small in number, the aim of the session was to offer something easy to turn up to, without pressure or expectation.
“The main reason people came was just to get out of the house and do something,” Phil said.
“You don’t have to be really chatty or commit to anything - you can just come down, do the run, have a brew and head off again if you want.”
The run is designed to be relaxed and accessible, rather than competitive. There is no expectation around pace or experience, making it suitable for anyone who wants to get moving.
Sessions are funded by Manbassadors, so both the run and the coffee are free to attend.
The group meets at All Ears, on Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, a community space centred around mental health and well-being.
Runner Beans Run Club is part of Phil’s wider Bean Better project, which focuses on creating simple, welcoming spaces that support mental well-being through routine, community and conversation.
He said the idea came from recognising how easy it is to fall into a pattern of work, home and not much else, particularly for men who may not be looking for formal support, but still benefit from having a reason to get out and be around others.
Rather than positioning itself as a traditional running club or a support group, the focus is on keeping things straightforward: turn up, move a bit, have a coffee and start the day well.
The running club meets every Saturday at 8.30am, with no need to book in advance.
Phil hopes the group will continue to grow over the coming weeks, becoming a regular part of people’s routine.
“It doesn’t need to be a big thing,” he said. “It’s just about having somewhere to go on a Saturday morning that feels easy.”
More details and updates can be found on Instagram at @beanbetteruk.