Interested in joining running coach, Christy Vachal’s training group this Fall? She’s created a list of FAQs to help make your decision easier! Sign-ups are available in the lobby!

FAQS

Q: CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE PROCESS AND HOW THE PROGRAM IS GOING TO WORK?
A: When you sign up, you will receive a questionnaire that will ask you to provide details, such as your running/race history, your current pace, your goals, history of any injuries. Christy will then use this information to craft a training plan that is specifically designed to take you from your current level to the goal you laid out for yourself. As the program progresses, she will continually adjust your training plan to ensure that it is still the right course of action for you.

Q: I’M NOT AN ADVANCED RUNNER… MORE OF A “CASUAL RUNNER,” CAN I STILL DO THE PROGRAM? SHOULD I BE ABLE TO COMPLETE A CERTAIN MILEAGE TO SIGN UP FOR THE PROGRAM?
A: This program welcomes runners of all levels. If you are interested in running the half-marathon we recommend having prior running history. If you are wanting to run the relay there is no requirement for base mileage. The program is tailored to your specific level at the time you sign up.

Q: WHAT WILL THE OUTDOOR RUNS BE LIKE?
A: You can expect the Tuesday / Thursday sessions to last for approximately 90 minutes, give or take. This session will be dedicated to speedework and drills. The Saturday long run varies depending on the miles you will be running that day, as well as the pace you are running.

Q: WHAT IF I CAN’T MAKE ONE OF THE OUTDOOR RUNS?
A: Should you miss a session, you can email Christy who will adjust your plan.

Q: I’M NOT VERY FAST, WILL I BE ABLE TO KEEP UP WITH THE GROUP FOR THE OUTDOOR RUNS?
A: The goal is to get you stronger first, and then build the speed, so pace isn’t the primary concern in the early days. I will certainly try to accommodate all levels and runners.

Q: I’M GOING TO BE AWAY THE FIRST WEEK OF THE PROGRAM (OR ON X DATE)— WILL I MISS ANYTHING CRUCIAL?
A: Since each plan is customized, you will have the opportunity to reach out to Christy after you have signed up and inform her about your upcoming plans. The plan is created for you to progress on a weekly basis; that said, you will not have heavy mileage the first week, nor will the speed work be too aggressive. Christy will be available to work with you and provide necessary adjustments to your training. She might recommend that you try to do some training on your own while you are away, but one-week vacation at the start of the training will not be a setback.

Q: I’M SUPER BUSY WITH X AND DON’T HAVE TIME TO COMMIT TO 6 DAYS OF TRAINING EVERY WEEK— CAN YOU ADJUST THE PLAN FOR ME?
A: We understand that time is one of the rarest commodities for all of us, but our number one concern is to make sure you show up race day injury-free and 100% prepared. If you are unable to commit to 6 days some weeks, then we can definitely work with that.

Check out the poster below for class details!