Every Thursday evening at Clayhall Park — friendly faces, natural movement, and a community that runs a little differently.
The Thursday Clayhall Park sessions are the heart of what Urban Runner does. We gather on the open grass to strip things back — sometimes literally, taking shoes off — and focus on natural movement, foot strength, and running form.
These aren't race-training sessions or interval circuits. They're an opportunity to reconnect with how your body actually wants to move, guided by Coach Rak's expertise in barefoot and minimalist running technique.
Whether you've been running for twenty years or you're lacing up for the first time, there's a place for you on the grass on Thursday evening.
Grass gives your feet honest, immediate feedback that tarmac and cushioned shoes can't. When you land even slightly wrong on a soft surface, you feel it — and your body automatically adjusts.
Over time, this feedback loop teaches you to land quietly, beneath your centre of mass, with a shorter stride and higher cadence. That's the foundation of natural, efficient running.
It's also kinder to joints and tendons when you're starting to rebuild foot strength — and Clayhall Park's open, well-maintained grass makes it one of the best surfaces in East London to do it on.
The sessions change week to week. Rak adapts based on conditions, who turns up, and what people need. Some weeks are drill-heavy; others are more about easy running and form feedback. No two Thursdays are exactly the same.
Bus: Routes 123 and 179 stop on Woodford Avenue, a short walk from the park. Route 462 stops right outside the main entrance on Longwood Gardens.
Driving: Car park is just inside the main gate via Longwood Gardens. Usually some spaces available on Thursday evenings.
Cycling: Bike racks near the car park. The park is accessible from both Lord Avenue and Longwood Gardens.