Parbold Pink Panthers providing trail running opportunities for women in Lancashire

Over the past 21 years, Parbold Pink Panthers, a women’s only running club based in Lancashire, has evolved but their inclusivity continues to shine bright through everything they do. We recently caught up with club Chair, Jane Cloke, to find out more about how the club has created that environment and the work they continue to do to empower women to give trail running a go.

Empowering women to give trail running a go

As a thriving and inclusive community, Parbold Pink Panthers recognise that they can provide a welcoming place where everyone feels comfortable to give something new a go. This starts with empowering women in the local community.

“Empowerment begins with understanding the barriers women face: fear of being too slow, worries about safety, uncertainty about kit or simply not knowing where to start. Trail running isn’t about being fast or fearless, it’s about discovering joy in movement and finding strength in nature.”

The club understand these barriers and provide beginner friendly trail running sessions to help women overcome them and become more confident. Jane explained a few things they ensure at each session to make all women feel welcome:

• Beginner friendly ‘Women on the Trails’ sessions are held monthly and are focused on enjoyment rather than pace.
• Our policy is that no one is left behind and our club run leaders will adjust the pace, the route and have a back-marker so that everyone is comfortable with the session.
• Confidence on trails comes with running familiar routes and we are fortunate to have club run leaders that are very familiar with our local network of footpath and are delighted to showcase.
• The culture of our club is to celebrate every achievement, from first trail mile to first 'run up the Beacon', everyone is supported and there is no pressure to perform.
• Most importantly, we empower women by showing them they already belong. The trails aren’t reserved for elite athletes, they are there for anyone willing to take that first step.

These sessions have developed over the 21 years since the club began and Jane explained the main thing they have learnt over this time:

“As a club, we have learned to celebrate both achievement and enjoyment, recognising that running can be many things: a challenge, an escape, a confidence builder or simply a way to spend time with friends.”

The importance of providing opportunities

Jane went on to tell us about the impact that providing women’s only sessions can have in helping many women to overcome the barriers and give running a go.

“Women‑only running spaces offer something uniquely powerful: comfort, confidence and community. Club runs become pockets of time carved out just for them, something incredibly important in lives often filled with work, childcare and endless emotional labour. There is also a shared understanding that goes far beyond running.

“Safety is a major factor too. Women‑only groups allow runners to access trails, evening runs and darker routes with confidence, knowing they are surrounded by people who understand their concerns. The presence of a supportive female group transforms what might feel intimidating into something empowering.”

At England Athletics we are supporting this year’s Let’s Lift the Curfew campaign to raise awareness of women’s safety concerns when running in the dark and be part of the change.

The impact of the club on women’s confidence and enjoyment is clear, one runner described the opportunities that have been opened to her by joining the club,

"I’ve been able to attend events, runs and races that I would never have had the confidence or been able to access myself. It has allowed me to explore trail running in a safe way."

Another added how much they have enjoyed running with the Parbold Pink Panthers:

"It’s fun to be out in nature, but it’s so much more fun to be out there with a group of women who share that same love for the outdoors. Having that guidance and supportive environment turned something that felt intimidating into something I now thoroughly enjoy."

Advice to anyone looking to give trail running a go

Jane has helped many runners find their love for the trails over the years and her advice for anyone considering giving it a go would be:

“Join a supportive trail running group or club, since running with others builds confidence quickly. Running with others will also improve your confidence in navigating the local public footpaths, bridleways and towpaths. 

“Visit your local independent running shop as they will have some great suggestions for trail shoes suitable for your area. However, don’t overthink the kit as you can get away with road shoes if it's not too muddy.

“Celebrate every milestone: your first hill, your first run in the snow, or a new path explored.

“Trail running is a mix of running and hiking, so don't be afraid to walk if you need to and remember to enjoy the views!”

Been inspired to give it a go?