The Forest Runner 5k Challenge is your opportunity to challenge yourself, explore the outdoors and experience the benefits of running in nature. Join runners from across the country and complete a 5km run between 7 and 20 September 2026 to earn your exclusive Forest Runner digital badge on Strava.
Whether you're taking your first steps into running, returning after a break, or looking to set a new personal best, Forest Runner is designed for everyone to take part in.
We've teamed up with Runners Need, our official prize partner for Forest Runner 2026, to inspire and support more people to get active outdoors and discover the nation's forests.
Get ready to become a Forest Runner
- Join the Forestry England Running Club on Strava.
- Claim your free gait analysis session at Runners Need. Simply book online and attend your appointment by 21 December 2026. Remember to mention you're taking part in the Forest Runner Challenge in store to receive your free session, usually worth £15. The exclusive Forestry England National Membership discount code can be found on our Strava club.
- Start training in the forest, log your runs on Strava and connect with other runners in the community.
- Register for the official Forest Runner 5k Challenge on Strava when registration opens on 31 August.
- Complete your 5km run between 7 and 20 September. We'd love you to run in a Forestry England forest, but if you can't get to one, choose a route in a local green space.
- Earn your exclusive Forest Runner digital badge on Strava and be entered into our prize draw for the chance to win a range of Forest Runner prize packages.
Why become a Forest Runner?
- Train among trees: running in forests has been shown to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Escape busy streets and enjoy the unique experience of exercising in nature.
- Set yourself a goal: whether you're aiming to complete your first 5km or improve on a previous time, Forest Runner provides the perfect motivation to get moving.
- Run your way: the challenge can be completed anywhere in the UK, giving you the flexibility to choose the route that works best for you during the challenge period.
- Unlock exclusive offers: all participants can access an exclusive 15% discount on a Forestry England National Membership, reducing the annual membership price from £96 to just £81.60. The discount code is available on the official Forest Runner Challenge Strava club and can be used when purchasing a National Membership online at checkout.
- Additionally, all participants can claim a free gait analysis session, usually worth £15, at participating Runners Need stores nationwide. Book your appointment online and attend before 21 December 2026. Simply mention that you're taking part in the Forest Runner Challenge in store to receive your session free of charge. Book your appointment here.
Win fantastic prizes
By completing the challenge, you’ll unlock an exclusive digital badge on Strava and be entered into a prize draw* to win one of our Forest Runner prize packages.
Main prize
- £500 voucher for Runners Need
- Forestry England hoodie and T-shirt
- Forestry England National Membership
Two runners-up prizes
- £275 voucher for Runners Need
- Forestry England T-shirt
*To be eligible for the prize draw, participants must be aged 18 or over and be members of the Forestry England Running Club on Strava.
Find your running trail
Whether you're looking for a gentle route through the trees or a more challenging route with breathtaking views, we've got hundreds of waymarked running trails across the country for runners of all abilities.
Runners Need: official prize partner for Forest Runner 2026
For more than 40 years, Runners Need has been helping runners of all abilities achieve their goals through expert advice, specialist knowledge and quality kit. Built on a philosophy of inspiration and self-improvement, Runners Need believes that it is never too late to start running, making them a natural fit for the Forest Runner Challenge.
Through Forest Runner, we are working together to encourage more people to get active outdoors, discover the wellbeing benefits of running in nature and explore Forestry England’s forests.
Frequently asked questions about the Forest Runner Challenge
Does my run have to be completed in a Forestry England forest?
We'd love you to visit one of our forests and experience the benefits of running surrounded by nature. However, if you cannot get to a Forestry England forest, you can complete the challenge on a route of your choice in a local green space.
When can I complete the challenge?
The Forest Runner 5k Challenge must be completed between 00:01 on 7 and 23:59 on 20 September 2026, and recorded through the official Strava challenge.
Do I need a Strava account?
Yes. Participants must register for the challenge through Strava and complete their run using the platform in order to receive their digital badge and access participant rewards.
Are there any age restrictions?
The Forest Runner 5k Strava Challenge is open to all ages. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult while taking part. Please note that participants must be aged 18 or over to enter the Forest Runner prize draw.
How do I claim the Forestry England membership discount?
Participants can access an exclusive 15% discount on a Forestry England National Membership, reducing the annual membership price from £96 to £81.60. The discount code is available on the official Forest Runner Challenge Strava club and can be used when purchasing a National Membership online between 31 August and 20 September 2026. The offer is valid for new National Memberships only, is not available on Direct Debit, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The code cannot be redeemed after 20 September 2026.
How do I claim my free gait analysis?
Book a gait analysis appointment online at a participating Runners Need store and attend your session anytime between 31 August and 21 December 2026.
When you arrive, simply let the team know that you're taking part in the Forest Runner Challenge to redeem your free gait analysis session, usually worth £15.
