The Runners4All project, co-funded by the European Union and led by the Timing Ljubljana Association in collaboration with EUSA, successfully conducted a series of online workshops aimed at promoting physical activity, healthy living, and mentorship among university students.

These workshops were a key component of the project’s mission to prepare students for the European Student Run, held as part of the 29th NLB Ljubljana Marathon in Slovenia on October 19, 2025.

Runners4All is a new initiative developed together by Timing Ljubljana, the European University Sports Association (EUSA) with its Institute, and the City of Ljubljana. Co-funded by the European Union, the project's main objective is to connect partners and organize a large-scale, not-for-profit event, with a special focus on student participation. Additionally, it aims to include disabled and other vulnerable target groups in the event, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment.

Timing Ljubljana coordinates this project, involving EUSA, National and Regional University Sports Associations, universities across Europe, the City of Ljubljana, and Special Olympics. Collectively, these partners represent 15 countries, working together to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles among university students.

The Runners4All Project workshop series began on May 13, 2025, with an introduction to the Runners4All project.

Andrej Pisl the Director of Projects and Policy at EUSA, introduced the Runners4All project, while Ziga Cerne, the main project coordinator from the Timing Ljubljana Association, Slovenia, provided an overview of the workshop structure for the upcoming 3 days. Participants were introduced to the project’s objectives, including promoting sports and physical activity among university students. The opening session highlighted the importance of student mentors who would play a crucial role in encouraging their peers to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Throughout the first day, students gained insights from expert Klemen Laurencak, who covered the basics of running, including proper training techniques, goal setting, and the importance of gradual intensity progression. He emphasized that effective training should be planned and continuously adapted to individual needs.

On the second day, May 14, 2025, the focus shifted to sports nutrition, with Ana Karin Kozjek explaining the principles of a balanced diet for athletes.

Petra Zupet discussed injury prevention, emphasizing safe exercise practices such as proper warm-ups and cool-downs, adequate hydration, listening to one's body to avoid overtraining, the importance of rest and recovery, using appropriate footwear and equipment, and tailoring physical activity to individual fitness levels.

Tina Jeromen guided students through psychological preparation and maintaining motivation, key aspects for consistent training. She emphasized goal setting, building mental resilience, overcoming setbacks, and developing a positive self-image. Techniques such as visualization, self-talk, routine-building, and tracking progress were discussed as practical tools to stay focused and engaged.

The final day, May 15, 2025, was dedicated to advanced running techniques. Klemen Laurencak returned to demonstrate how students could refine their running form and adapt training methods for endurance. 

Ales Solar spoke about inclusive training methods, highlighting how to design training sessions for diverse groups, including individuals with disabilities and special needs.

The Runners4All workshops not only educated students on essential training techniques but also fostered a sense of community. The open discussions at the end of each day allowed participants to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from one another.

By equipping students with the skills and knowledge to promote healthy lifestyles, the Runners4All project has laid a foundation for long-term impact in the student community. More information will follow soon with the creation of the official platform devoted to the Runners4All - European Student Run project, within the Ljubljana Marathon event. The event itself will be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia on October 18 and 19, 2025.

For more information about the Runners4All project and the European Students Run, visit the official website: https://ljubljanskimaraton.si/runners4all.