Going Virtual or In Person: RunSport TC 10k Training Clinics Start Soon!

A great way to start the New Year is to make a promise to yourself to become more active. One way to do just that is to join a running clinic, but should you go virtual or in person? Do you need a clinic at all or should you just figure out a plan yourself? Top ranking athlete, mentor, and coach, Mariah Kelly, leads the training for the RunSport TC 10k Training Clinics, and she offers some insight into what you can expect from their clinics.

What makes a virtual training plan better than doing your own thing?

We offer a unique experience. As a virtual participant, you have unlimited access to a training program, coaching advice and guidance, our exclusive speaker series, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a community of participants who share similar goals. Right now people may feel isolated and alone so we want to offer a chance to come together in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe. This is our way of creating a sense of togetherness.

How are the in person clinics organized?

The in person clinics start on January 16th and go until the TC 10k race day on April 24th - a total of 14 weeks of training. They run once a week at 7 different locations. Each clinic is led by a coordinator and a group of run leaders who are there to help guide participants through the training program. The primary workout of the week is scheduled on the training day, and then there are 2-3 other sessions that participants will be expected to do on their own.

What are the Covid protocols?

Each of the in person clinics will be following provincial health and safety guidelines, in addition to our own precautions which give our members the safest possible opportunity to participate. Everyone must show proof of vaccination once, and then for subsequent sessions answer a series of Covid screening questions before joining the group. It will be expected that each clinic member shows up wearing a mask and maintains social distancing. Masks can be removed as soon as the activity begins.

What are the skills you will teach?

You can expect to learn the basic principles and fundamentals of living an active and healthy lifestyle. Our speaker series features multiple experts who cover topics such as mental health and performance, nutrition, injury prevention, training philosophy, recovery tips, form and efficiency, and much more. At first we do a self-assessment which allows participants to determine which group they belong to. Next, they are guided through an introductory program that focuses on proper warm ups and cool downs, recovery tips, mindful running and ways to challenge yourself. As the program progresses, workouts become more demanding, and this is when the journey of self-growth begins. The core values of this program center around people figuring out how to become the best version of themselves through learning, making mistakes, failing, and succeeding.

What would you say to those who are undecided about joining?

The clinics offer a place for everyone. We value every person who wants to start leading a more active lifestyle, regardless of experience, background, or goals. Our only expectation is that each participant respects those around them, does their part in ensuring the environment remains as safe as possible, and comes in with an open mind eager to learn. (To register, visit: www.runsport.ca)