Applications for the 2021 Most Active County Outreach running programme are open until the 14th June and you can register for a place by visiting www.macoutreach.com
Welcome to the Most Active County Outreach running programme, delivered by Suffolk's Most Active County partnership. The programme provides an opportunity for up to 40 Suffolk residents who are currently inactive and over the age of 18 to take part in a progressive programme of training and support to help them get physically active, with the goal of taking part in a Virtual Guinness World Record 10k Run attempt on the 19th September 2021, alongside tens of thousands of other participants across the world.
To be eligible for a place on the programme you must be currently inactive, (undertaking/or doing less than 30 minutes of moderate/vigorous activity per week).
What is moderate to vigorous activity?
Moderate activity will raise your heart rate, and make you breathe faster and feel warmer. One way to tell if you're working at a moderate level is if you can still talk, but you can't sing the words to a song.
Vigorous activity makes you breathe hard and fast. If you're working at this level, you won't be able to say more than a few words without pausing for breath.
What will you receive
Participants will receive an extensive programme of support from experienced run coaches with expert advice and guidance from double Olympic long distance runner Paul Evans.
Over the course of 3 months you will be supported to develop your stamina, fitness and confidence to take on the 10k run.
The programme includes:
- Weekly supported training sessions by experienced local run coaches
- An Outreach T-shirt or vest
- 15% discount on running footwear and clothing at Coes of Ipswich
- Gait analysis and advice on the most appropriate footwear to suit your walking/running style at Coes of Ipswich
- Physiotherapy support from Allied Health Professionals Suffolk
- Nutrition advice from the University of Suffolk
- A free place on an 'Emotional Needs and Resources' workshop run by Suffolk Mind
- Entry into the 10km Guinness World Records Official Attempt Run on Sunday 19 September 2021.
Past Participant Quotes and Comments
"The programme has really boosted my confidence and has motivated me to continue taking part in exercise now that I know that I can!" Sarah
"Without the programme I would not have had the motivation to run during the very hot summer, so would not have entered the half marathon. Without the coaches I would not have had the self belief that I would be able to complete a half marathon. Running with the group also made me realise how many opportunities there are in and around Ipswich to run off road" Elfreda
"This programme has had such a positive impact on my life, in lots of areas. I feel so much fitter and stronger, and way more confident to go out and exercise with others in the future. It has made me realise that even 30 mins of time spent walking/jogging/running has a big positive influence on how I feel mentally. I know this is just the start for me, and I am looking forward to the future with exercise as part of my life." Claire
"The programme was outstanding and really has been life changing for me." John
"I have made some amazing friends and have achieved things I never thought able to do. I am so grateful I was picked for the programme" Hannah

Class of 2019
Entry Criteria and Programme Location
Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis to individuals meeting the entry criteria below:
- Inactive (doing less than 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week) as defined above.
- Suffolk resident
- Over the age of 18 at the start of the programme
- Commit to attend at least 75% of the weekly coached sessions
- Commit to train at least twice per week in addition to the coached session
- Be available to participate in the Guinness World Record 10k attempt on the 19th September 2021
- Make a contribution of £30 to the programme
Programme Induction
Tuesday 22 June 18:15-19:45 Endeavour House Ipswich
Training details:
- Training sessions commence Tuesday 29th June
- Location: Ipswich
- Venues: Various (Note the first 4 sessions will be at Ipswich Rugby Club)
- Day: Tuesdays
- Time: 6.15pm - 8.15pm
To find out more email Carol.lukins@suffolk.gov.uk or telephone Carol on 07955 735514
Programme Information and Application
Please ensure that you read the eligibility criteria prior to submitting your application. This programme is targeted at individuals who are currently inactive (doing less than 30 minutes moderate to vigorous activity per week)
Moderate activity will raise your heart rate, and make you breathe faster and feel warmer. One way to tell if you're working at a moderate level is if you can still talk, but you can't sing the words to a song.
Vigorous activity makes you breathe hard and fast. If you're working at this level, you won't be able to say more than a few words without pausing for breath.
Applications will close on the 14th June www.macoutreach.com
Programme Partners
We are delighted to be working in partnership with Allied Health Professionals, Coes, Suffolk Mind and the University of Suffolk in 2021. More information on each of our partners can be found by clicking on their logo below.

"Coes are proud to support the Most Active County Outreach running programme 2021. No matter if you're looking to kick start your fitness journey or are a seasoned runner, we offer a wide range of sports clothing, equipment and accessories, including gait analysis and FootBalance services to help you ensure you're performing at your best."

Allied Health Professionals Suffolk are pleased to support the Most Active County Outreach running programme providing physiotherapy support to keep participants on track if they have any niggles.

Suffolk Mind works to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people across Suffolk and is pleased to be supporting the Most Active County Outreach running programme in 2021

The university of Suffolk supports the MAC Outreach programme with advice and information on diet and nutrition for participants

London 2012 placed great focus on what can be achieved through the inspiration and power of sport, using it as a catalyst for positive change.
Thanks to strong political leadership from Suffolk County Council the county embraced this ambition and have been proactive ever since in using the Games to secure significant ongoing benefits for Suffolk.
In February 2012 the Most Active County (MAC) programme was launched as a branded partnership of local authorities, public sector bodies, the voluntary sector and private companies to begin to turn the tide of inactivity.
For partners to work together to shift inactive behaviours, address barriers and create, promote and commission sport and physical activity opportunities that support healthy lifestyles.