How to Find the Right Marathon Training Group

When it comes to marathon training groups, some runners love it and others hate it. It really depends on the personality of the runner. Runners who enjoy the solitude of the trail or road may not enjoy sharing the experience with others. Introverted individuals may feel stressed being around lots of runners. While others thrive on the energy of other runners around them. Neither course is right or wrong. They're just different methods for achieving the same goal.


However, if you're new to marathon training, if you've tried training on your own and just can't seem to stick with it, or if you've run several marathons and feel you've plateaued, then joining a marathon training group may be just what you need. A marathon training group can provide the confidence to cross the finish line the first time, complete the training, or set your next PR.


Determine Your Level
Not all marathon training group programs are alike, so do a little homework before you sign up. In the town where I coach, there are marathon training groups for women only, there are marathon training groups catered to the elites, and there are marathon training groups (like the ones I coach) that support a melting pot of levels. Some programs (even though they’re group) cater to the individual by providing training plans designed for each group member’s specific needs. Others have everyone on the same plan. Again, there’s no right or wrong type of marathon training group, but there may be one that’s better suited to your personality and/or running fitness level.

Scheduling

Meshing schedules is another key factor. Find out in advance how many days a week, which days, and at what time the group will meet for the weekly group runs. There’s no point in joining a group if you’ll only be able to make two of the group runs during the three to four months of training. If you sign up for a group for which you know it will be hard to make the runs, then deep down you’re probably not fully committed to the training. That can spell disaster and/or disappointment.


Price
Price is another factor to consider. If you Google running coaches in our area, you'll find that the prices can vary widely. Don't just go with the cheapest group offering. Select the one that best fits your budget, but also be sure to select the one that best fits your needs. Coaches and groups that provide fitness screenings, individual plans, and ongoing support may cost a little more.
To read the rest of my tips for how to find the right marathon training group, please go to Active.com


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The RunnerDudes Do Battle at Battle!

I try really hard to keep RunnerDude's Blog and RunnerDude's Fitness separate. From time to time, I'll mention my running and coaching business and today is one of those times that I'm beaming with so much pride that I just have to share.

Saturday, 20 of my runners participated in the Battle of the Triad Half Marathon and 5K in Kernersville, NC. This is a great race put on by our awesome local running store Off'n Running Sports. Eleven of the runners are from my current half and full marathon training program at RunnerDude's Fitness and the other nine runners are from my fitness walking and beginning running corporate programs over at Volvo Financial and Volvo Trucks. Nine of my half and full marathon trainees won or placed in their age group and six of the Volvo runners won or placed in their age group in the 5K. For most of the Volvo runners it was their very first 5K!

My half and full marathon trainees were under RunnerDude orders not to run the half any faster than their marathon race pace (my goal to keep injuries at bay, plus give them a chance to do a pretty long distance at their marathon race pace giving their bodies a chance to get acclimated to their race paces). So, no telling what they would have done if they had ramped it up to their half-marathon race paces.

Pictured above are my half and full marathon trainees who participated in Battle, many of them holding their hard-earned age division awards. So, proud of you guys!!!

If you're in the Greensboro area, I'd love to have you join us in some race training! Also, if you work at Volvo Financial or Volvo Trucks in Greensboro, our next Fitness Walking, Beginning Running, and Intermediate Running groups begin on September 12th! Email me at runnerdudeblog@yahoo.com if you're interested in joining one of the groups.

Beginning Running Group

It's almost that time again! The next RunnerDude's Fitness Beginning Running Group will start on Tuesday, October 18th. This 12-week program will have you completing 3.1 miles (a 5K) by the end of the program. This plan involves a walk/run method designed to ease you into running. This program is great for beginners of all ages! All you need is a desire to want to run.
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The program will take you through the beginning of the new year, so you'll already be a step ahead on your New Year's resolution for a healthier you!!

Price: $100

Includes:

• a Fitness Assessment for running (a $55.00 value!)
• a 12-week training plan
• 2 weekly group runs
• a RunnerDude's Fitness/Off'n Running Sports Technical T-Shirt
• a 10% off coupon for 1 purchase at Off'n Running Sports
• a 15% off coupon for a future RunnerDude's Fitness service or program 
• mini-info sessions on related running topics
• weekly motivational emails

Not sure about joining the group? Check out this testimonial from a previous RunnerDude's Fitness Beginning Running Group participant. 
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“I want to start out by saying I'm not an athlete. I don't like to sweat and I haven't exercised since I hit puberty. But at age 41, with my weight steadily rising and my self esteem plummeting, I knew I needed to make some changes. RunnerDude’s beginning running program was perfect for me. Thad started us off slowly, set do-able goals and the end of every run felt like a victory. By the end of the program we were running 30 minutes non-stop, something I thought I'd never do. And I'm still running on my own today. I've lost weight, lost five inches and fit into my clothes again. But more importantly I'm healthier and have gained tremendous confidence. I wouldn't have done it without Thad and our group. If I can do it, anyone can. Thanks RunnerDude!” Sherri Rhyne—Greensboro, NC
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Group running is one of the best ways to get started. Not only will you make some great friends, you'll also have the support of RunnerDude and your fellow beginning runners to encourage and motivate you as enter the awesome world of running.

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For more information on the program or to sign up email Thad at runnerdude@runnerdudesfitness.com 

Register by October 15th and be entered in a drawing for a $25 gift certificate to Off'n Running Sports in Greensboro, NC.
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Not in the Greensboro area? No problem. Email Thad and ask about the online Beginning Running coaching program.