Running Program
Austin Fit members are just like you. We each decided one day that we would like to get into better shape, to make new friends, and maybe run a 5K, 10K, half or full marathon! Some of us are just starting an exercise program, others have been exercising for a while, and some are Boston Marathon qualifiers. But regardless of the specifics, we all share one common goal - to have fun.
Our members join to train for the San Antonio Rock 'n' Roll Marathon, AT&T Austin Marathon as well as other races, including 5K's, 10K's, half marathons, ultras, and triathlons.
Ask previous members, and they will tell you that Austin Fit is a non-intimidating environment, and we really do motivate people to get fit, and enjoy themselves.
The general format of Austin Fit is as follows:
- An organized training run each Saturday morning* with a group of runners or walkers whose training pace is similar to yours. Each group is designated by a color - Blue, Green, Yellow, Red, Orange, or Purple.
- A seminar on training, stretching, nutrition or other related topic is presented each Saturday before our run/walk to help you learn the fundamentals of successfully improving your fitness. The seminars are always at 6:15 AM sharp! Early-Bird ticket drawing for exciting prizes at 6:14 AM. (First three weeks of Summer Rock N Roll Training start at 7:15 AM, instead of 6:15 AM).
- Time for discussion with your color group members and instruction from your coaches each week after the run.
- A schedule of training runs to be completed each week on your own, or if you choose, with other members of your color group.
- Weekly speed training sessions once the group has built a sufficient training base to handle speed work safely and comfortably, about 10 weeks into the program.
- Injury prevention advice provided by Powers Family Chiropractic, Dr. Chris Sellers, Koala Sports Medicine Center, Body Dynamix, Welcome Touch Massage and Massage Envy.
Austin Fit is highly successful because it follows the format of the USA Fit program, which has been refined and improved since it's beginning in 1989. The USA Fit programs have improved the health, fitness and wellness of thousands of people each year throughout USA, Canada and around the world. Our Austin Fit Head Coaches are certified by USA Fit, and are CPR and Sports Safety trained. Each coach has successfully completed marathons themselves. Come out and join us and see for yourself.
*The Capitol 10,000 Training Clinics may meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Walking Water Breaks In The Running Group
The "run/walk training method" during long runs and in marathons is a strategic training method that is becoming more and more popular among new runners and veteran marathoners alike. New runners become acclimated to the long distances with much less leg fatigue and seasoned runners are finishing their runs much stronger and without slowing down at the end. Austin Fit utilizes this method to alleviate crowding at water fountains. Water belts and hand-held bottles are encouraged.
Walk breaks taken early in the run are beneficial because you switch between your running muscles and your walking muscles. This prevents the running muscles from being overused and will push back the onset of fatigue. There is less damage to the muscles which helps speed up the recovery.
There is also a mental benefit for taking walk breaks - knowing that you only have to run a specific number of minutes before you can take a break, helps break down the mileage into small segments and gives you that mental edge to keep moving forward.
Each coach times the runs and the walks so it is easy to get into the rhythm of the run. Taking the walk breaks in small running groups also gives you the opportunity to meet others in your group and share the training experience.
