Next Step Hibernation to 5K is a no frills, get to work right away program to encourage a quick start to the new year. This program is for both beginning runners and more experienced adult runners (18+) that just need to get off the couch after a long winter! Although we only train as a group once a week, participants should expect to be devoting time for 3-4 workouts each week in order to maximize their progress. The coordinators for this program are the dynamic duo of Bill Arbelaez and Rene Alonso. Please note there will be no restrooms available.
The Females-in-Training (FIT) program is designed for women of all ages who want to learn to run in a supportive, non-coed environment. FIT is primarily for women who are fairly new to running or coming back to running after a break. The FIT coaches will support and guide you so that you will be ready to run a 5K (3.1 miles) distance by the end of the program. If you are already running, you are welcome to participate if you do not run faster than a 10-minute pace for your typical run. If you are already faster than this pace, we encourage you to try one of the other Striders programs. All runners must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the program.
The Next Step 10K/10 Mile Program is for runners of varying abilities. Participants will do a 3-mile time trial at Wilde Lake High School on April 1st so coordinators can group participants with those of similar abilities.
Weekly training runs will involve a variety of running techniques including speed work and hill work to improve running performance.
All runners must be able to run 3 miles before starting the program.
The Next Step Columbia Classic 10K Program is for runners of varying abilities. Participants will first do a time trial so coordinators can group participants with those of similar abilities.
Weekly training runs will involve a variety of running techniques including speed work and hill work to improve running performance
All runners should be able to run 3 miles before starting the program.
Are you ready to take your Half or Full marathon endurance training to the “Next Step”?
Please be advised this program is NOT intended for brand new runners, nor for anyone 18 years of age or younger.
Zero to Weekly [June – August]
If you’ve thought about running, but didn’t know how to start, or you’ve tried running and gave up because it was too hard, this program is for you! Our coaches will help you progress from not running at all to running up to 3 miles after following our 8-week program.
Zero to Weekly assumes you have never run before, and gives you the tools to run a 5K (3.1 mile) distance by the end of the program. Coaches will meet participants for a workout once a week, and you will be expected to repeat this workout two to three more times before the next week’s meeting. At the end of the session, participants may optionally run a complimentary Striders Weekly 5K race.
This is a low-key, no-fuss, family-friendly program. We welcome men and women over 18 years of age.
