It’s hard to believe the spring race season is already almost over, but there’s no rest for the weary. Local running stores are gearing up to help runners train for big fall races such as the Marine Corps Marathon. We got the rundown from running coach Paula Arevalo, who volunteers for and leads a number of running groups in the area.
Fleet Feet Run Fit Training Program
Location: Fleet Feet Sports (1841 Columbia Rd., NW)
Perks: Weekly e-mail support, happy hours, pre-race pasta dinners, a T-shirt, and a 10 percent discount at the store
The 16-week Run Fit training program begins Saturday, June 29, and is designed for all levels. It trains runners for either the Marine Corps Marathon, the Baltimore Half Marathon, the Army Ten-Miler, or the 5K Race for Hope DC. Runners meet three times a week for a long run, a track workout, and a tempo run. The store hosts a free fun run and information session this Sunday at 9 AM. $149 for early registration until June 15.
DC Road Runners Club Programs
Location: Georgetown Running Company (3401 M St., NW)
Perks: A T-shirt, free entry into local races, and discounts at local running stores
This program begins in June and runs until October. Members train for the Marine Corps Marathon, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon, the Army Ten-Miler, and the Marine Corps 10K. Marathon training began last week, but runners can join at any time; half marathon training begins in July. Fun runs are held six days a week. Registration ranges from $35 to $110.
Pacers Distance Project
Location: DC, Arlington, and Alexandria
Perks: Flexible training schedules, six store locations, free tryouts
The 20-week tiered distance training program at Pacers Running stores begins June 10 and targets the Marine Corps Marathon. Runners can join at any time during the six-month period and are encouraged to try out the stores’ various programs—there are three different levels—for free before joining one. Fun runs are held Tuesdays and Thursdays. Registration ranges from $125 to $500.
Potomac River Running Summer/Fall Distance Training Program
Locations: Arlington, Ashburn, DC, Reston, and Rockville
Perks: A T-shirt, e-mail guidance, five store locations
Potomac River Running’s 18-week program begins the weekend of June 15 and aims to train runners for the Marine Corps Marathon and the Army Ten-Miler, plus other destination fall marathons. There is a weekly group long run, plus optional speed workouts throughout the week. $159 to register.
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