Women taking it in their stride with jogscotland

As Women and Girls in Sport Week 2026 marks ten years of progress in Scotland, Jo Skead, jogscotland Programme Manager, explains how the network helps women and girls stay active and enjoy the benefits at every stage of life. 

I've spent more than 13 years working to help people experience the benefits of running through jogscotland and Scottish Athletics. One thing I’ve learned is that getting started isn’t always about physical ability. For many women, it’s about finding the confidence, time, support, and sense of belonging to feel that running is something they can do and something they deserve to do for themselves. 

What is jogscotland? 

jogscotland is Scotland’s recreational running network, with local jogging groups nationwide. Groups focus on enjoying exercise and supporting each other in a friendly atmosphere, welcoming walkers, joggers and runners of all levels - no one is ‘too slow’ to join! 

While open to everyone, the majority (over 70%) of our members are female. We work to promote jogging as an accessible activity, despite the practical barriers many women may face, including confidence, caring responsibilities and feeling safe when running outdoors.  

Beginner sessions include a combination of gentle walking and jogging, with many of our groups running couch to 5K running programmes, where new joggers can build up their running alongside other beginners in a supportive group environment. 

Supporting women at every stage 

We know that women’s needs, confidence and circumstances change throughout life, and that jogging or running can adapt with them. 

Menopause 

We work to help our members learn about menopause and help our groups to become as welcoming as possible through our #MenopauseFriendly campaign.  

We know the menopause can be challenging, and we  support women by fostering an environment where they can share their experiences openly and feel strong and confident, even when facing physical and mental challenges. We want women to be informed and empowered, so that they can get the support they need to stay active through the menopause and beyond, at whatever level suits them. 

Motherhood 

Our Mums on the Run programme supports women after childbirth by training leaders to deliver buggy-friendly sessions. The major changes of motherhood can affect mental health and our groups offer opportunities to connect with other people while improving physical and mental wellbeing. 

Less sleep and adjusting to a new routine can make exercise a low priority for new mums. Our groups offer support and help mums enjoy the physical, social and psychological benefits of getting out and being active. 

Working life 

Our jogworks programme encourages people to be active at work. Promoting healthy, active lifestyles can help organisations boost productivity, strengthen social connections, , improve morale and reduce stress and health-related absence. 

Employers can train a staff member as a jog leader or partner with a local jogging group. Supporting women to be active at work can help reduce the risks of a sedentary lifestyle. 

Supporting mental health 

We work in partnership with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) to promote the mental health benefits of jogging alongside physical health. Running with a group has additional benefits, providing social contact and a sense of community. 

Through our ‘I’m here’ campaign, we have trained over 3,000 jog leaders in mental health awareness. They have pledged to welcome conversations about mental health in their groups and help people overcome mental health barriers to being active. 

That means whether they’re feeling anxious about going along to their first session, have a long-term mental health condition or have just had a bad day and want to chat, group leaders can offer some support.  

Getting started 

Running doesn’t have to be about speed, be competitive or focused on a finish line. Sometimes, it’s about finding a little space for yourself within a busy life, connecting with others who understand or discovering that your body is capable of more than you thought.  

 Women and Girls in Sport Week is the perfect time to get started! #SheCanSheWill 

Further information 

Membership of jogscotland is free and you can either find your nearest group, or download our easy to follow programmes to learn to walk, jog or run for fitness.  

Read our summary briefing on Women’s Health. (add link) 

Find out more about the Couch to 5K running plan.