Kelly: The 5K program is an easy 10 week training program to
follow that you can do with your family and friends. The group will meet and
run together once a week. The participants are encouraged to run 1 or 2 more
times on their own each week. At the first meeting everyone receives a training
program guide that they can follow for the full 10 weeks. If a 5K training participant
happens to miss a class they can follow the program and make the run up on
their own. Throughout the program there will be advice and education on proper
footwear, nutrition, and hydration. This program is really for people of
all fitness levels whether you already run but would like to train with a
group, maybe this is your first time every trying to train for a race or maybe
your goal is just to be able to run 3 miles and you want guidance. Whatever your background is this training
program can definitely be beneficial and a lot of fun.Lindsay: Can you tell us the benefits of joining a group versus training alone?
Kelly: Motivation is key. For most of us it’s a lot easier when we know that we have committed ourselves to being somewhere, especially if we sign up with our spouse, friends, or other family members. You’re less likely to skip a run or not show up to the weekly meeting when you know the trainer and group is expecting you to be there. So many of my past running groups have brought on new friendships and running partners. People that may not have known each other previously are now running together, doing races, and keeping each other motivated. People run at all different paces and especially with this training people shouldn't feel intimidated. I will have people in the training that run really quickly and others who may jog/walk. But the great thing is that there are always others in the group doing the same thing, which helps everyone to keep coming back and trying their best.
Lindsay: Kelly, this sounds like a fantastic program . . . what makes you so passionate about training people for Turkey Trot?
Kelly: Running and just living a healthy and active lifestyle is such a passion of mine. I just think it is so great to see people come out and exercise before they sit down to their family Thanksgiving Day meal. I think it makes everyone feel a lot better. It is so enjoyable for me over these past 5 years of doing these trainings to see people accomplish a 5K, whether they are walking, jogging, or running it is amazing to see people to complete their first 3.1 mile race. Its such a great accomplishment and such a warm and relaxed environment to do that for the first time. I also have people join the group who are working on getting faster or maybe they just want to run with a group and that is always great as well.
Lindsay: Thanks, Kelly! So how do people get involved with this program?
Kelly: This year not only will the Ward Family Center in Abingdon have a 5K training but the Catonsville Family Center Y, Dancel Family Center Y, Weinberg Family Center Y, Towson Family Center Y, and Hill Family Center Y will as well. You can go into any of those centers to sign up or sign up online.
Lindsay: Do you have to be a Y Member to participate in the 5K training program?
Kelly: No, you do not have to be a Y of Central Maryland member to be able to register. Y Members can register 2 weeks prior to the start of the first class and then open registration is available 1 week prior. Registration will need to take place at the center. The cost is $30 for Y of Central Maryland Members, $45 for Y of Central Maryland Youth Members and $60 for the open rate.
Lindsay: Fantastic. Do you know when this program will begin?
Kelly: This will be a 9 week program beginning the middle of September and ending just early November. Check your local center or online for exact dates and times.
Lindsay: Thank YOU Kelly! It has been great speaking with you and we look forward to seeing you Thanksgiving morning in Bel Air!
For more information about when your local Family Center Y is offering the Turkey Trot 5K Training program please contact your Center or visit http://ymaryland.org/online-registration. Click on the “Proceed to online registration” button in the middle of the page. On the next screen select your Family Center Y. For “Primary Category” select “Health and Fitness”. Under “Keyword” type in “5k”. Hit “Search” and you should see the program for your location!
Leave a comment if you have any questions about the program.
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