Frequently Asked Questions
What training sessions do you offer?
We offer a variety of sessions to suit everyone, including friendly social runs and more focused interval and tempo sessions. You'll find options in mornings and evenings across Sutton, so there's likely something that works for you. Most of our sessions are based on time rather than distance, allowing you to train comfortably at your own pace.
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Visit the training page for more information.
Am I Fast or Fit Enough?
We hear this question often, and we promise you are! Our Tuesday and Thursday sessions are specially designed for all abilities using 800m loops and time-based intervals. This means you simply run at your own pace and intensity - you can't be "left behind." Our social runs have a caring "no drop policy" so nobody is ever left on their own. If you prefer to run/walk or aren't up for the full distance yet, just let us know so we can plan accordingly.
What kit do i need?
Nothing fancy is required! Regular running clothes suitable for the weather will be perfect. During darker months, we do ask everyone to wear reflective gear or lights for safety. Trail shoes might be helpful at Overton Park in very muddy conditions, but road shoes work fine most of the year. If you're wondering about specific gear recommendations, our friendly members are always happy to share advice.
What insurance do you have?
We are an England Athletics affiliated club, so all of our club activities are covered by their public liability insurance.
What is the membership fee?
For the 2025/2026 membership year, the subscription is £40, valid until March 31, 2026. If the financial cost would make joining difficult, please contact our Membership Secretary to discuss options - we want running to be accessible to everyone. Your membership includes the £19 England Athletics affiliation fee. This affiliation is optional but necessary if you want to compete in UKA competitions and receive the £2 discount on road races.
What's the difference between first and second claim?
When you register with England Athletics, your "first claim" club is essentially your primary club - the one you represent in most competitions. However, you can be a member of as many running clubs as you like! Any additional clubs you join are typically called "second claim" memberships.
This distinction only matters for certain competitions and doesn't affect your standing with us.
From our perspective, once you join, you're a valued member of the Sutton Striders family regardless of whether we're your first or second claim club. We'll support you no matter which vest you choose to race in! If you're transferring from another club, the process is handled online (£10 fee, waived if you've been away from the sport for 3+ years).
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If you're transferring from another club as your first claim, the process is handled online (£10 fee, waived if you've been away from the sport for 3+ years).​
How do I join and pay for membership?
We're delighted you're considering Sutton Striders! You can submit an application form online, but we encourage you to join us for a free taster session first (up to three). Membership is open to everyone without discrimination.
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After submitting your membership form, you'll be directed to our payment gateway. You'll also receive emails from both Google Forms with payment links. Once paid, you'll receive a confirmation receipt.
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After you've completed your signup and payment, our Membership Secretary will personally reach out to welcome you. They'll provide information on how to join our community Facebook and WhatsApp groups so you can connect with fellow members. You'll also start receiving our email newsletters and announcements to keep you informed about club activities, events, and important updates. We're excited to welcome you into our running community!
What is Surrey League Cross Country?
Cross Country is the highlight of our club's winter season! It's a series of 4 races between October and February where runners of all abilities represent our club across varied terrain of around 8km. No minimum standard required—we need everyone! It's free to participate after registering with team captains.
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The Top 10 Men's finishers and Top 5 Women's finishers in each team score points, but every participant helps. You can join as many of the 4 races as you can and more information will be shared in the lead up to race 1.
What is the Surrey Road League?
The Surrey Road League is an exciting series of road races where our club competes against others across Surrey during the Spring and Summer. Unlike cross country, these races require individual registration and payment for each event you wish to attend.​ There are 7 races varying from 7km to Half Marathon in distance to test your road racing skills while contributing to our club's standings.