Suffolk running club sees surge of members over 50 and adds new age brackets

In Saxmundham, Suffolk, the Saxons Running & Fitness Club reports that over 50 % of its members are older than 50, and a third are over 60. Club chair John Axtell, who took up running in his 50s, points to the sport’s affordability and inclusive culture as key draws. The club trains several times a week, adds strength-training sessions, and runs an annual eight-week beginner’s course led by coach Chris Lucas.

Ahead of its October five-mile (8 km) race, the club will award prizes in five-year age groups for runners aged 40-75, a revision championed by 68-year-old Gary Lowe to ensure fair competition. Long-time member Jo Clifton notes a growing influx of older adults, helped by community initiatives like Parkrun. University of Suffolk researcher Emily O'Neill cites Sport England data showing millions more people aged 55-74 and 75+ are active now than nine years ago, highlighting health, cognitive and social benefits.