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Why do you do this program in the heat of the summer? Good question - we have tried it at different times of the year but believe it or not it just comes down to this: most of the participants are moms and working women and the only time of year that there is a little time for "you" is when it is not baseball season, tax season, TCAP season, holiday season....well you get the idea. This just works for most participants and we are sticking with it.
Do I have to run?
No, we have a walking division to this program. In fact walking is a major component of the entire program where YOU determine if you remain a walker, morph into a recreational runner or even aspire to race. The program is broken down into Walkers, Beginners, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2 and Advanced participants (See the Suggested Guidelines, below).
Do I have to be a member of MRTC to do this program?
No, absolutely not. We hope that at the conclusion of this program you would stick with it, continue to participate in the many running and walking events in the community and yes - join the MRTC for all the latest news and discounts. However, for insurance reasons we do require that each participant in the program is a paid and registered attendee.
How do I know what group I should be in?
Below are some detailed questions to guide you to the appropriate group. Remember - we want you to be a life long enthusiast of this sport! Pick a manageable goal and then take your time working to the next level. Even elite runners start at the beginning when returning from a hiatus. If you do not currently have a regular exercise program we encourage you to begin walking around your neighborhood three times a week right now.
SUGGESTED GUIDELINES ON SELECTING ONE OF THE FIVE AVAILABLE GROUPS:
WALKERS: IF you currently walk for fitness and want to improve your walking skills OR if you DO NOT currently have a regular walking or walk/run exercise program
BEGINNING RUNNERS: IF you currently run/walk or jog slowly up to 2 miles, 3x per week, and have never done a 5K.
INTERMEDIATE 1: IF you currently run regularly up to 3 miles, 3x per week, and have a recent 5K with a best time of 41:00 – 45:00
INTERMEDIATE 2: IF you currently run regularly up to 3 miles, 3x per week, and have a recent 5K with a best time of 36:00 – 40:00
ADVANCED: IF you currently run regularly over 3 miles, 3x per week, and have a recent 5K with a best time of 35:00 or faster. Advanced Group will involve hill work and workouts 3 miles or greater at pace without walk breaks.
(Please note: Groups will have pace groups. If you are unable to stay with the available pace groups you may be advised to move to a different Group. Please be aware that coaches are trying to meet your training needs to the best of their ability.)
