Promotional VT for Couch to 5k. Produced by BBC Sport.

COUCH TO 5K

Couch to 5k is a landmark partnership between BBC and Public Health England, through which we created the biggest running app, and one of the biggest running communities in the world.

I led the partnership and production for the BBC for six years, including the pandemic. Working closely with colleagues across the BBC and Health Department, my work has positively impacted millions. This includes audio production with household names, from Jo Whiley to Steve Cram, and working with Breakfast, The One Show, BBC Sport social teams and BBC Athletics on promotional features. In close collaboration with the product team at Public Health England, we created one team from two orgs to deliver the best.

Key to Couch' to 5k’s success is its ease of use and adaptability to suit every runner on their terms. Understanding people’s barriers to entry and focusing on a welcoming entry point to running, we avoid metric-led features in competitor products. This drives the product plan - to keep it simple; the talent roster - to be relatable; and campaigns - to centre everyday people. Knowing our product and audience allowed for innovation, integrating BBC Sounds into the app, creating a new audience for Sounds and a richer experience for Couch to 5k.