Monday, May 18, 2009

One little idea

My friend Becky just emailed me the brochure for a Summer 5k/10k Training Group here in Bloomington.  It will be lead by a guy who apparently runs 4 minutes miles and sub-14 minute 5ks.  Impressive, to say the very least!  

Anyway, they will have varying pace groups, etc.  For $35, you go on a weekly run for about 8 weeks, get a free 5k opportunity at the end, plus a free Brooks Running item and 10% off at the specialized running store here.  I'm thinking that this might be good for me to do...the brochure states that the group "uses proven group training effects to meet and motivate each other to common goals" and also states that I will "grow as a runner with adaptable training concepts to meet my needs" and "educate myself with weekly discussions on nutrition, training, and race day preparation."  

What are your thoughts?  Has anyone done something like this?  Do you feel it would be beneficial?  I know that $35 isn't much, but right now, I'm trying to pinch every penny.  If I spend the money, I want to make sure it is totally worth it.  Thoughts?  Comments?  Advice?

9 comments:

katie said...

My boss was a part of one of these groups in Atlanta and he says its great. His sister who had never, ever run before ran a marathon within six months... So I'd say they were effective.

Erin said...

Well, for 8 weeks, the cost is just a little over $4 per week for the weekly support. Maybe since you were a bit disappointed in your first race, this could be 1) a reward for finishing your first race and 2) a way to stay motivated to keep running!

I'm sure the info isn't anything you couldn't find online, but mightn't it be fun get out and MEET people who will encourage and motivate you? I say give it a try! If you're really concerned about the $$$ (and trust me, I'm there, too!) maybe you could trim other budget areas to make room for this...

amanda said...

Do it! I did one in October and I had never run before., but I loved it. I think 35 is a steal. Our clinic was 50 and that was a reduced price because it was subsidized by the hospital. It sounds great. I think you'll love having a group to run with!

Casey (@ Chaos and Cardboard) said...

It sounds like the discounts alone will "cover" the cost you put in to it. Plus, how much would you pay to finish your next race happy? :)

Anonymous said...

If you are wanting to run and enjoy it, this is definately worth it!

kilax said...

I think it sounds like a great idea. It will be a great way to meet new people and get the support you need!

Brittany Ann said...

Group dynamics are proven exercise enhancers for most people. Definitely do it! I see the benefits and improvements from group exercise daily.

Under this Umbrella said...

Hi Shaina! I love your blog and you are adorable. Thanks for stopping by mine and letting me know you are out there in blogland. I am a follower and can't wait to see what else you have going on. Congrats on even doing a 5K and I think for $35 the group is worth it. Also, the group will give you extra encouragement...totally worth the $$$. Keep us posted. Have a great night.

Mrs. Hibit said...

I'm late on this - but some races alone cost $35 to enter. The training group sounds awesome. I'd sign up in a heartbeat!