Jog On: Supporting recovery with Turning Point Scotland

Thursday 30th April 2026

For the last year, jogscotland has been working in collaboration with Turning Point Scotland to establish a running group for those accessing recovery services.

‘Jog On’ is a programme that aims to assist people in rebuilding their lives after addiction and leaving prison through promoting fitness community, confidence, and hope.

One year on from setting up the running group, we caught up with founder and coach Colin Thomas, alongside some group members. In the short video below, they share how the group has progressed and how it has impacted their lives.

One service user said:

“I just wanted a life outside drugs, because life’s not easy, regardless of whether you’re sober on drugs it’s still going to hit you hard,

“But instead of turning to drugs I wanted to find different ways to cope with it. I had to change something, I was just sick of being sick.

“I know it’s hard when people are in active addiction, but even just going for a walk, getting out and enjoying nature, it’s so simple but it helps so much.”

Another group member said:

“I’ve found since coming to the running group, I’m sticking in with my recovery, I’m 60 days clean. All positive stuff is coming from the exercise,

“It’s realising that you can make your own positive endorphins in life, you don’t have to take shortcuts to get there.”

Colin said:

“I had visions of setting up this group and folk running marathons. It hasn’t been like that, but it’s been powerful in a different way completely,

“I feel like it’s the beginning of integrating people back into the community and giving them a sense of belonging.”

scottishathletics Head of Development & Participation, Hazel Crawford, said:

“jogscotland aims to provide safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces for people to participate in running, and our collaboration with Turning Point Scotland shows how we can use physical activity to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing.”

With thanks to Turning Point Scotland and videographer Flynn Smith.

Tags: Colin Thomas, Flynn Smith, Hazel Crawford, Turning Point Scotland