The National Running Show 2026 - a weekend of community and connection
Last weekend we returned to the National Running Show for two action-packed days celebrating all things running. As we reflect on the biggest running community meet-up of the year, we’re looking back at some of the highlights from across the weekend.
With over 30,000 people attending across the weekend, the show brought together fellow running enthusiasts, inspirational influencers, elite endurance and trail runners, Olympic athletes and coaches under one roof.
Saturday kicked off the show with queues forming well before 9am and an electric atmosphere as the doors opened. The England Athletics stands soon became a hub of activity throughout the day.
Our Run Club Hub proved hugely popular, with registered athletes proudly representing their clubs by adding their vest and club name to the board. Over 350 clubs were represented over the weekend, highlighting the strength, diversity and reach of clubs across the country. It was great to talk to so many passionate members who are proud to represent their club.
Alongside this, the RUN:EA stand was a constant draw, with visitors keen to spin the wheel, win a freebie and find out more about our RUN:EA membership. The stand sparked hundreds of conversations, talking to all types of runners across the two days.
A real highlight for families was the funetics activation zone which ran nonstop across the weekend. Children and families were encouraged to run, jump and throw, guided by the funetics team through fun and accessible challenges. The zone created a brilliant atmosphere which helped children discover just how enjoyable exploring fundamental movement skills and athletics can be. With over 550 visitors across the weekend the area was full of smiles, laughter and enthusiasm – it was great to see so many people getting involved!
The Run Club Hub also hosted a series of engaging talks throughout the day. Hayley Hemmings, coach and National Endurance Manager at England Athletics, opened the day talking about her background in the sport and her development as a coach. Followed by Cole Gibbens who spoke about his marathon success and how his YouTube journey helped him find a running community after feeling isolated at school. Kevin Oakes, West Midlands Regional Council and Chair of Birmingham City Striders and, highlighted the many benefits of club membership, from performance support to the powerful social connections that help runners thrive throughout life.
Over at the Skills stage we hosted a fantastic conversation with ultra-runner Sophie Power, running influencer and mum, Charlie Watson, newly announced RUN:EA and RunTogether ambassador and panel host, Jo Pavey. The women shared an inspiring discussion on empowering women in running and tackling the challenges they face day to day.
Day two welcomed a fresh wave of visitors, with excitement returning as conversations continued across the show. On the Inspiration Stage, England Athletics coach Paul Moseley joined fellow coaches Kerry Newell and Matt Long to discuss creating successful training environments, focusing on athlete-centred coaching and long-term development. centred coaching and long term development.
Back at the Run Club Hub, Sophie Power kicked off the day with a Q&A discussing her new book, the Power Within, and her work championing women in athletics through the SheRACES Trail Series. David Yim shared how his online community support played a key role in his marathon success, while Paul Moseley reflected on his 30‑year coaching journey, his work with Paralympian Hannah Cockroft and his contribution to coach education at England Athletics. Helen Smith, chair of Steel City Striders, closed the day by sharing what it’s like to be a member of a club, why people join and more importantly why they stay. Sharing passionate stories of members from the club and stating the importance of finding the right fit for you.
As we recover from a weekend of running madness, the National Running Show 2026 reinforced the power of clubs, community and engagement. From RUN:EA conversations to children discovering athletics through funetics, the weekend showcased how England Athletics continues to support runners at every stage - inspiring the next generation while strengthening the people at the heart of our sport.