Fresh off her historic triumph with England’s Lionesses, Ella Toone is embarking on a different kind of journey—but one that’s still rooted in teamwork, resilience, and inspiration. The 26-year-old football star, who played a pivotal role in England’s back-to-back European Championship victories in 2022 and 2025, has joined the NHS Couch to 5K app as its newest celebrity coach. Developed by the Department of Health and Social Care in partnership with BBC Sport, the app is designed to help absolute beginners transition from a sedentary lifestyle to confident runners in just nine weeks.
From the Pitch to the Running Track
For Ella, running without a football at her feet might seem unusual, but her new role is about more than just physical fitness. “I’ve never been the biggest fan of running, unless there’s a ball involved!” she admitted with a laugh. “But being part of the Couch to 5K app has shown me how important movement can be—not just for fitness but for your mindset too. You don’t have to love running to start; you just have to take that first step.”
Her voice will now join a lineup of motivational coaches like BBC’s Jo Whiley, comedian Sarah Millican, and former athletes Steve Cram and Denise Lewis. With her infectious energy and relatable approach, Ella hopes to inspire not only strangers but also friends and family to lace up their running shoes. “There will be a lot of family and friends using my voice. Well, I hope so anyway, for as long as they can listen to me telling them what to do!” she joked.
A National Health Mission
The NHS Couch to 5K app has already proven its worth as a public health initiative. Since its launch in 2016, the app has been downloaded over seven million times, with 9.3 million runs logged in 2024 alone. The program’s structure—a gradual build-up of stamina and endurance—has helped countless individuals improve their physical and mental well-being. Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director, emphasized the broader health benefits: “Keeping fit can prevent serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. It can also support recovery from illness and prepare people for medical interventions.”
For Ella, the opportunity to give back to the NHS is deeply personal. Last year, she lost her father and has since spoken openly about the vital role the NHS played during his illness. “I know what a massive part the NHS were in Dad’s illness. Everything they do for families and people who aren’t well—they were massive. We couldn’t thank them enough,” she shared. Her involvement with the app feels like a meaningful way to honor that legacy.
Breaking Barriers, One Step at a Time
Ella’s participation in the app isn’t just about running; it’s about breaking down barriers to fitness. She acknowledges that starting any exercise routine can feel daunting. “I think sometimes it’s really difficult to get out there and go, but the feeling you get after doing it is more important,” she said. The app provides tools to help users overcome these mental hurdles, including curated playlists on BBC Sounds, articles, videos, and even “buddy runs” that encourage users to run with friends, either in person or virtually.
Her focus on inclusivity extends to her personal life as well. She shared a touching anecdote about a friend who had stopped running after having a baby. “Before the baby, she was all over running and enjoyed it. But since then, I think it’s the last thing she wants to think about. It’ll be nice for her to hear a familiar voice and someone who can motivate her to get out and run a 5K.”
A Legacy of Motivation
Ella’s role as a coach isn’t just a new chapter for her—it’s a continuation of the leadership she’s displayed on the pitch. Her teammates have long admired her ability to inspire and uplift those around her. When asked who her dream coach would be, she didn’t hesitate to name fellow Lioness Lucy Bronze. “She’s someone who’s very fit and works so hard. She’d be a good person to listen to because you know she’d be doing it too,” Ella said, highlighting the importance of authenticity in a motivational voice.
As she steps into this new role, Ella remains grounded in her mission: to make fitness accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who hasn’t exercised in years, her message is clear: “You just have to take that first step.”
Ella Toone’s journey from football star to fitness coach is a testament to the power of adaptability and resilience. By lending her voice to the NHS Couch to 5K app, she’s not only encouraging physical activity but also fostering a sense of community and mental well-being across the UK.