Running for recovery: meet the Speed Freaks

You may have seen groups of runners in blue T-shirts in parks and on hills near you, or if you haven't, you will soon. Research now clearly shows the positive effect running can have on the brain, particularly for people in recovery from addiction and mental distress. It's a finding that echoes what many people in recovery have been experiencing for years. 

Who are the Speed Freaks?  

The Speed Freaks community has been running for recovery since its beginnings in 2017 as a small group in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Social worker and CEO Anna Christophorou formally founded the charity in 2021. Anna says through those early groups, she noticed the changes in wellbeing, identity, and feeling part of something. 

“The positive outcomes of those who were running as part of the group were noticeably increased. I felt that this should be offered to everybody,” says Anna. 

Speed Freaks now operates across the motu. There are groups running/walking in Ōtautahi, Te Tai Poutini, Tāmaki Makaurau, Taranaki, Whangārei and soon to be in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. Find a Speed Freaks group near you at speedfreaks.org.nz.

Who is Speed Freaks for? 

Speed Freaks is for anyone in recovery – whether that’s from alcohol or other drugs, or mental distress – who wants to increase their health, wellness and connection with others. You don’t need to be a runner! Speed Freaks is inclusive of all paces. It is free to join. 

Why join Speed Freaks? 

Speed Freaks say that taking part grows connection, fitness, community, and belonging. There is no judgement and everyone supports everyone else on their recovery journey.  

“It helps show participants that they are more than their addiction or mental distress, and that they have a community behind them helping them reach their goals,” Anna says. 

We’ve all heard about the benefits of exercise and fresh air – but it can be difficult to get out there, especially if you’ve never done it before. Speed Freaks provides support and coaching to help you get up and running (or walking!). 

How do you join Speed Freaks?  

The rules are simple: just show up. Or contact Speed Freaks through social media or the website and a peer team will be in touch. Speed Freaks is open to anyone wanting a friendly, active space to further their recovery. Best of all, it’s completely free for individuals, their whānau, and service providers (such as community service or alcohol and other drug services).  

“It’s a great way to support your recovery journey - with growing evidence of the power of running and movement to support recovery and wellbeing. Come and join us!” says Anna.  

Groups can range from a few people up to 30, with some focussed on trail runs or taking a slower pace (you don’t need to be a hard-out runner!). They’re supported by volunteer coaches, peers who have been through recovery themselves, and the Speed Freaks team.  

If there are no community groups in your region, Speed Freaks also run an online Zoom meeting each week - all welcome. 

How does a typical Speed Freaks run or walk work?  

Participants gather at a meeting point at the start of the run. The volunteer coach will explain the guidelines and expectations of the group, group everyone together whether they want to walk, run or hybrid (running and walking), assign the coach for each group, then the groups head off. Once completed, the whole group will gather in a circle for a gratitude round, and come together in support. 

Speed Freaks would like to acknowledge its amazing volunteer coaches who deliver its groups. The charity would not be possible without them. If you are interested in volunteering, contact [email protected] 

Find a Speed Freaks group near you at speedfreaks.org.nz