At Active Essex, we know that meaningful change happens when organisations come together with a shared goal. Backside to Trackside is a free nine-week, coach-led Couch to 5K style programme that helps people take their first steps towards a more active lifestyle in a safe, supportive and welcoming environment on local athletics tracks across Essex. The programme focuses not only on improving physical fitness, but also building confidence, social connections and mental wellbeing. Backside to Trackside has been a fantastic example of what can be achieved through a collaborative approach, bringing together partners from across the county to help residents improve their physical and mental wellbeing through a supportive, community-led programme. Over the years, it has demonstrated the power of partnership working in creating lasting positive change for individuals and communities alike.
This year, through Public Health funding, Backside to Trackside has reached hundreds of residents across Basildon, Brentwood and Thurrock, creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to become more active, build confidence and connect with others. Originally established in Basildon, the programme’s success led to it being expanded into Brentwood, Thurrock and Castle Point, enabling even more residents to benefit from its supportive, community-led approach. The impact has been significant.
In Basildon 78.3% attendees were female. Importantly, 82.6% of respondents say they do more or much more when asked if their physical activity levels have increased, 93.5% intend to continue running, and participants reported improvements in mental wellbeing, with scores increasing from 5.75 pre-course to 7.5 post-course.
The programme’s success has been driven by strong partnerships. Across Thurrock, organisations including Thurrock Council, Impulse Leisure and Find Your Active Thurrock worked together to raise awareness, engage residents through trusted community networks, and help participants find ongoing opportunities to stay active beyond the course. What made Backside to Trackside particularly powerful was its ability to engage people who may not have previously considered themselves runners or physically active. Participants ranged from under 16 to over 75 years old, with many taking part alongside family members. By combining local knowledge, trusted community networks and a shared commitment to improving health and wellbeing, partners were able to create an inclusive environment where people felt supported to take that first step.
The greatest measure of success comes from the participants themselves. Andy, who completed the programme, shared:
“Participating in and completing the Backside to Trackside course has been one of the most positive and life-changing experiences I have undertaken. Before starting the programme, I was struggling with both my physical fitness and mental wellbeing. The course provided me with the structure, motivation, and support I needed to make meaningful changes to my lifestyle.”
The good news is that this is not the end of the journey. With another programme beginning on 28 September and further delivery planned throughout autumn and spring, we’re excited to see even more residents experience the life-changing benefits of Backside to Trackside. Work is also underway to secure longer-term funding, helping to ensure even more residents can benefit from the programme in the future, just like Andy!
“I feel fitter, stronger, and have more energy than I have had in years. Activities that once felt challenging are now part of my regular routine, and I have developed healthier habits that I am committed to maintaining. Equally important has been the improvement in my mental health. The course gave me a renewed sense of purpose, achievement, and self-belief. It helped reduce stress, improve my mood, and reminded me of what I am capable of when I set myself goals and work towards them.”
As we look ahead to further programmes this autumn and spring, Backside to Trackside continues to demonstrate what can happen when partners work together, communities are placed at the heart of delivery, and people are given the support they need to take that first step towards a more active life.
