Giovanna Fletcher brings star power and inspiration to new BBC Sport Couch to 5K Podcast
Created by BBC Sport in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care, this fresh audio companion to the popular NHS Couch to 5K app is designed to inspire the nation to get moving.
Each week, Giovanna is joined by special guests – including Jo Whiley, Charley Marlowe, and Lindsey Burrow – who share powerful, personal stories to keep you motivated with every step.
Whether you're lacing up for your first run or getting back into the rhythm, the podcast brings warmth, encouragement, and real-life inspiration to help you stay on track.
Giovanna Fletcher said: 'Being part of The Couch to 5K Podcast has been such a joy. Running can do wonders for your mind and body, and this podcast is all about offering support, motivation and a friendly voice to keep you going—no matter where you are on your journey.'
Ashley Dalton, Minister for Public Health and Prevention said: "Getting active isn't just good for your body – it works wonders for your mental wellbeing too, clearing your mind and boosting your motivation. And that's true for every single one of us, regardless of our starting point.
'As part of our Plan for Change, we are committed to preventing ill health before it starts, including breaking down barriers to exercise and getting the nation fitter.
'The NHS Couch to 5K App is a brilliant example of this– it offers exactly what we all need: support, encouragement and a friendly voice cheering you on at every step.'
BBC Radio 2 presenter, Jo Whiley, who once disliked running, reflects on how coaching for the Couch to 5K app has been one of the best experiences of her life.
Jo Whiley says: 'It's one of the best things I've ever done in my career. 100 per cent.'
'I have been at so many different festivals where such a variety of people of all different shapes and sizes and fitness abilities coming over to me and saying 'Couch to 5K! It's changed my life!'
Also set to join Giovanna in upcoming episodes are Dr Punam Krishnan, a GP who shares insight into the health benefits of running, Coronation Street star Colson Smith who talks about how running helped him with weight loss and Olympic champion Dame Laura Kenny.
With more guests to be announced, Giovanna's podcast brings humour, heart and real talk to support and keep you company on your Couch to 5K journey one step at a time.
BBC Sport has long been at the heart of the nation's most iconic sporting moments, from global tournaments to local triumphs. With a huge summer ahead, including the Women's EURO and the Women's Rugby World Cup, The Couch to 5K Podcast reflects BBC Sport's commitment to not just covering sport, but encouraging participation, by making movement feel accessible, inclusive, and something that brings people together.
Listen to the first episode of The Couch to 5K Podcast on BBC Sounds, Friday 25 April. Further episodes will be released weekly from 5 May.
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About NHS Couch to 5K
NHS Couch to 5K is a running plan for absolute beginners. It is based on the plan designed by Josh Clark in 1996, who wanted to help his 50-something mum get off the couch and start running. The plan involves 3 runs a week, with a day of rest in between, and a different schedule for each of the 9 weeks. The idea behind the programme was to gradually build endurance and stamina over the course of several weeks, starting with short intervals of running interspersed with walking.
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