Welcome to the 2010 TS Run/Walk group. We have an exciting season of training ahead of us. Here is a list of the 10 most important things you need to know about our group. These are important guidelines to help you maximize your membership. Refer back to this entry from time to time to refresh your memory.
- First and foremost: Running, walking and getting in shape is supposed to be fun! We are here to help make it fun. Don’t get to serious, life is too short. Anytime you feel that you are not having fun, please take the time to contact one of your friendly Training Studio representatives. It is our job to make this an enjoyable experience. We are looking forward to working with each and every one of you.
- This group was created as an opportunity for like minded individuals to train together to achieve a long-term endurance goal. We offer a training schedule, basic guidelines, team camaraderie, and lot’s of new friends as tools to help you accomplish your goal. Our advice, recommendations and/or guidelines are always designed for the group in general. Our running coach, Carrie Hoddinott does however offer individualized guidance and customized training schedules for an additional fee. These customized training plans are designed specifically around your strengths and weaknesses. Feel free to contact Carrie for more information.
- All of our scheduled training events are held on Saturday mornings here at The Training Studio @ 8:00 am. We have decided to push the time back a little during the winter months. We may start moving the time up a little earlier as we get closer to the Spring and the daylight hours start to get a little longer. Please arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to find your group, use the restroom and get ready to run/walk. Our first training is scheduled for January 9th.
- Team communication: We have set-up a weekly blog for our team communication. The blog, containing weekly announcements, a link to the route for Saturday, and other important information, will be updated each week by the end of the day Monday. Get in the habit of logging on each week starting Tuesday morning to see the updated information. This is the first entry in the 2010 Training Studio Run/Walk blog. Bookmark this section for future use.
- Group Leaders: Every year the success of our group is directly related to the amount of volunteers used to make it run smoothly. We have a group of select individuals that understand our program and have experienced how successful it can be. These group leaders have been assigned specific pace groups based on their ability level. They are there to help you achieve your goals by keeping you on pace. Please treat them with the utmost respect and remember that this program would not be possible without them.
- Long Run pacing: As a follow-up to number five, pay special attention to your long run pacing. Your long run pace is supposed to be at least one minute slower than what you could normally run. Keep in mind that this slower run also includes a walk break. Take some time to read the “Schedule Guidelines” handout for specific pacing recommendations/intensities for the entire training plan.
- Sponsors: Don’t forget about the local businesses that help make this program possible. Please give your due diligence to these select businesses. They will appreciate your patronage. United Mail, Ken Combs Running Store, Cheddar Box and Java Brewing Company.
- Inclement Weather Policy: Just in case we experience some type of bad weather, here is the plan. We will post a message on the office answering machine (893-4024) one hour before the scheduled meeting time dictating whether of not we will be meeting. The only things that will cause us to cancel are severe ice, snow or lightning.
- Training Routes: Each week the route is marked with arrows, mile markers and water stops (every two miles). Pay attention to the intersections, the larger groups have a tendency to miss some arrows from time to time. All courses are an out and back format to minimize the number of water stops.
- Injuries: We hope nobody ever has to utilize this guideline, but just in case, here are some things to remember. If you happen to experience some type of injury while out on the course, please stay on the specified route. If for some reason you decide to take a short cut to get back to the Studio quicker, please tell someone in your group where you are going, just in case we have to come find you.
That’s it for now. Stay tuned for more information each week. See you soon.
Dale
