n.joy program

From zero to 5K — n.joy is where your running journey begins.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

DURATION

4 WEEKS

TRAINING LEVEL

BEGINNER

TYPE:

GROUP SESSIONS

n.joy is our beginner-focused running program built for those who want to get moving, feel good, and fall in love with running – minus the intimidation. Whether you've never run a day in your life or you're just starting again, n.joy meets you where you are and helps you build from there.

We train twice a week in a supportive group setting, with expert guidance on everything from training plans to gear and nutrition. It's more than just logging kilometers – it's about confidence, community, and discovering that your body is capable of way more than you think.

We're not here to push you into pain. We're here to guide you into joy.

n.joy includes:

  • Twice-weekly group sessions
  • Easy-to-follow training plan
  • Support on gear, recovery & nutrition
  • A crew of like-minded beginners
  • A whole lot of encouragement

Whether you're here for fitness, headspace, or that sweet feeling of crossing a finish line — n.joy is where it all begins

Ready to run? Let's go.

R800.00 PER MONTH

WHY JOIN OUR PROGRAM?

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY, NO JUDGEMENT

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY, NO JUDGEMENT

STRUCTURED COACHING YOU CAN TRUST

STRUCTURED COACHING YOU CAN TRUST

SUPPORT<br>BEYOND THE SESSIONS

SUPPORT
BEYOND THE SESSIONS

REAL<br>COMMUNITY, REAL ACCOUNTABILITY

REAL
COMMUNITY, REAL ACCOUNTABILITY

FOCUSED ON ENJOYMENT, NOT JUST SPEED

FOCUSED ON ENJOYMENT, NOT JUST SPEED

Meet the coaches

Sheldon O'Connor

Sheldon O'Connor

Book with a coach
BIO
Meet Sheldon! The head coach of our Wednesday mornings speed sessions - “negative splits” & the brains behind the majority of our big workouts!  Shel is a beast in his own right with the CV to back it up. Holding an impressive 2:40 marathon PB and 1:15 over the Half, he certainly knows how to go FAST!  He’s also one of the most charismatic people you’ll ever meet and if you have ever attended any of our runs, you’ll know exactly who he is!  Here what he has to say about his love for running, and his coaching style:  “Running is a huge passion of mine and it’s been a privilege to share this passion with so many like-minded individuals over the last 2 years with Natural Running Co.    Being called ‘Coach’ comes with great responsibility as I have the power to shape other people’s running journeys and the goals they chase. I take pride in pushing people to new limits and helping them unlock their unknown potential.    For me, running provides a sense of clarity & direction as I’m able to problem  solve and come up with new ideas while I’m on the run.  My goal as your coach is to provide you with some direction and motivation so that you can achieve goals you once thought weren’t reachable. I really enjoy the coach/athlete relationship because I think there’s nothing better than helping people become better versions of themselves, being part of a  community and collecting medals on the way.  I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your lofty goals”.

Joshua Marais

Joshua Marais

Book with a coach
BIO
Meet Josh! Josh is best described as a big hearted, kind guy. He is the voice at a lot of our community runs, and takes great pride in his craft.  He is still an avid runner though and has the CV to back it with a 2:58 Cape Town marathon PB, and a 8:23 Bill Rowan on his maiden Comrades.   Here what he has to say about his love for running, and his coaching style:  “Sports and fitness has been in me since as early as I can remember. I’ve pretty much tried it all!  I always say I was destined to coach - A big heart, smart mind, and just not enough talent meant my successes would be lived through others! I coached multiple sport codes through my life, as well as worked as a Personal Trainer in the biggest gyms around SA.  But then, I found running. A sport where talent, or genetics are far outweighed by consistency and commitment. A sport where pushing yourself for your own personal best, was still celebrated like a team achievement.  I was hooked.  As a coach, I am high on attention to detail and the personal relationship I hold with my athletes, and draw on my own personal experiences in order to guide and lead. I am understanding, but firm - and believe coaching is a 2-way street.  The more you give me, the more I’ll give you.    I am young, passionate, and still learning everyday! But will never shy away from a challenge.  I hope to sit in on a call with you soon, and get you living to your fullest potential!”

Frequently asked questions

What is n.joy?

n.joy is our couch-to-5k — built for new runners who want to start strong, stay consistent, and fall in love with running (yes, it can happen). It’s not about pace or ego, it’s about building confidence, community, and a feel-good fitness routine.

Who is this for?

If you’ve never run before, haven’t run in years, or just need a little structure to get moving — this is your starting line. No judgment, just good vibes and a team that’s with you every step (or shuffle) of the way.

How does it work?

It’s a twice-a-week group program where we cover the essentials: smart training, proper gear, real nutrition tips, and loads of encouragement. You’ll get weekly progress plans, in-person sessions, and expert guidance so you’re never going it alone.

Will I actually be able to run 5K?

100%. We’ve got the structure, support, and strategy to get you there — whether you run it, jog it, or power-walk the final hill with a grin. You’ll be surprised what your body (and mindset) can do with the right crew behind you.