Membership FAQs

Who can join HBAC?

Anyone aged 9 and above with an interest in running or athletics can join HBAC. We welcome runners of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced athletes. Our junior section accepts children from age 9, and there's no upper age limit for seniors.

How much does membership cost?

Can I try before I join?

Yes! You're welcome to attend up to 3 trial sessions before deciding whether to join. This is completely free and gives you a chance to meet the club, try our coaching, and see if HBAC is right for you. See our Trial Sessions page for more information.

How do I join?

Joining is easy! Simply download our membership application form and return it completed. You'll receive confirmation within 48 hours and be registered with England Athletics within 7 days. Then you can start training immediately!

When does membership run from?

The club membership year runs from April 1st to March 31st, aligned with the England Athletics registration period. However, you can join at any time during the year and your membership will be valid until the following March 31st.

Do you offer family membership?

While we don't have a specific "family membership" package, families with multiple members joining do benefit from lower junior membership fees. Each family member needs their own membership for insurance and England Athletics registration purposes.

What is second claim membership?

Second claim membership is for athletes who are already first claim members of another club but want to train with HBAC. You'll have access to training sessions but can only compete for your first claim club. The club fee is reduced to £20 per year.

When and where does the club train?

Do I have to attend all training sessions?

No! Attend as many or as few sessions as you like. There's no minimum attendance requirement. Most members attend 1-3 sessions per week depending on their goals and availability. Come when it suits you.

I'm a complete beginner - will I keep up?

Yes! We have members of all abilities and structure our sessions into multiple groups by pace. Our coaches will place you in an appropriate group, and you'll train with others of similar ability. Many current members started as complete beginners. Check our Beginners Guide for more information.

Are the coaches qualified?

Yes, all our coaches hold UKA (UK Athletics) coaching qualifications and have enhanced DBS checks. Many also have specialized qualifications in endurance, sprints, jumps, or throws. Our coaches regularly attend continuing professional development courses to maintain their qualifications.

Can I get a personalized training plan?

While we don't provide fully individualized training plans for all members, our coaches are happy to offer advice and guidance on your training. If you're working towards a specific goal (like a marathon), speak to one of our coaches who can suggest appropriate sessions and general training structure.

What is England Athletics registration?

England Athletics (EA) is the national governing body for athletics. EA registration provides public liability insurance, personal accident cover, competition eligibility, and various discounts. It's included with all HBAC memberships and is mandatory for insurance purposes. Learn more on our EA Registration page.

I'm already registered with EA through another club - do I need to register again?

If you're transferring from another club, we can transfer your EA registration to HBAC rather than creating a new one. This keeps your athlete number (URN) and competition history intact. Just provide your URN when you join, and we'll handle the transfer.

Do I need a competition license?

For most club activities, training, and social running - no. Your basic EA registration covers cross country leagues and most road races. You only need an additional competition license (£17) for track & field competitions or certain championship road races. Most members never need one.

What benefits do I get as a member?

Do I have to race?

No! Many members train purely for fitness and enjoyment without ever racing. Racing is completely optional. That said, if you do want to compete, there are lots of opportunities including club championships, cross country leagues, and road races.

Are there social events?

Yes! We have regular social events including pub runs, summer BBQ, annual dinner, Christmas party, and informal post-training socials. These are a great way to get to know other members in a relaxed setting.

Can I buy club kit?

Yes! We have an online shop where members can purchase official HBAC kit including club vests, t-shirts, and other merchandise. The shop opens periodically for bulk orders. You don't need to wear club kit for training, but it's required for competing in official races.

How do I renew my membership?

We'll send renewal reminders in early spring (February/March). You can renew online through the same membership portal where you originally joined. Your EA registration will be renewed automatically when you renew your club membership.

Can I cancel my membership?

Membership fees are annual and non-refundable once paid. However, if you need to stop training due to injury or other circumstances, you're welcome to return when you're ready - just renew your membership for the new year.

How do I access the member portal?

When you join, you'll receive login credentials for the member portal via email. The portal allows you to update your details, view training results, read news, and access member-only content. If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page.

How do I update my contact details?

Log into the member portal and update your profile. It's important to keep your contact details current so we can reach you with important club information. For emergency contact changes, email secretary@hbac.co.uk.

Who do I contact if I have questions?