Q: What time does the run start?
A: For most of the year we start at 8:00 am, but during the summer we switch to 7:00am to avoid the heat. The current start time is always posted at the top of the main SLR page.
Q: Do I need to be intimidated?
A: No, just come and try it out and run your own pace!
Q: Can I just show up? Is there any protocol?
A: Yes, you can just come and show up. There is no protocol, except we usually ask if there are any new people just to say hi!
Q: How fast is everyone?
A: There are some fast guys who do 7:00-7:30 minute miles, but most of the runners do between 8:00 and 10:00 per mile.
Q: Do you have pace groups?
A: We don’t have organized pace groups. We start together, and during the early part of the run tend to naturally self-sort into groups based on how fast everyone is going that day.
Q: What if I don’t want to run the planned distance?
A: No problem, just turn around when you’ve gone half as far as you want to. There are usually runners going a few miles shorter, and even some maniacs who go further. Depending on your preference, you can either run a few miles before meeting us at the start, or add a few miles at the end. Suggestions on route modification for alternate mileage are often posted in each week’s route update.
Q: Should I carry water?
A: Some routes have water fountains available during the run as noted on the route description, but this is not always the case, and fountains are generally turned off during cold weather. In addition to year-round post-run drinks, during the summer we organize volunteers to provide mid-run drinks (water, Gatorade, and ice) on the course. If you’d like to supplement these sources, ensure that water will be available, or add hydration flexibility, then you should carry your own water.
Q: If the planned route for the next Saturday morning run says something like “C&O Canal Towpath”, does that mean we meet there to start the run?
A: No, on Saturdays we always meet at North Meade Street Park across from the Iwo Jima Memorial.