Running the DMV Since 1961
Running the DMV Since 1961
Training Program FAQs
If your question is not answered by this list, please contact the board, tagging training programs on your inquiry. Kelly Fisher and Rae Bimmerle will be happy to answer your questions.
We request that media inquiries are submitted formally.
What is the training programs contact email?
The email address for all training programs is training_marathon@dcroadrunners.org. You can also submit inquires through the club’s contact form, making sure to tag your inquiry as a training program question.
Is there parking near North Meade Street Park?
Street parking is available in the neighborhoods adjacent to North Meade Street Park. Be mindful of parking signs, since Arlington County enforces them enthusiastically.
Please do not park on Marine Memorial Circle (inside Iwo Jima), since parking there is for memorial use only.
I'm a slow runner. Will there be a pace group for me?
There will be pace groups for slower runners and for beginners. We also have a structured run-walk group for trainees who train using that method.
Are there bathrooms near North Meade Street Park?
Bathrooms are available near the Iwo Jima Memorial.
How much do the training programs cost?
Prices vary based on the training program, with different rates for members and non-members. See the each training program page for specifics about each program and pricing.
Do you provide water and Gatorade?
Post-run water and Gatorade are provided at the Saturday Long Run. All trainees are encouraged to exercise caution during hot weather (and on longer runs). Bringing your own water is never a bad idea.
Club members can also receive volunteer credit for signing up to bring drinks to the Saturday run (the club will reimburse you). As a reminder, DC Road Runners is an all-volunteer organization.
Are there other organized training runs besides SLR?
DC Road Runners organizes a number of weekly runs. The formal training programs will also include speed and track workouts. Usually, the training programs will join the Wednesday night track workout, but Thursday morning is also an option if that workout is more convenient for you.
We will also offer training seminars throughout the programs on various topics, such as injury prevention, race strategies, and nutrition.
How long are the long runs for the training programs?
The length of the first long run depends on the training program and race dates. Since our programs accommodate different target races, we encourage you to contact the coaches if you have any questions or concerns about the length of the first long run.
Generally, for the marathon training program, you should be comfortably running 10-12 miles as a long run at the start of the program. For the half marathon and 10 miler training, you should be comfortably running 3-4 miles at the beginning of the program.
Our marathon programs will ultimately include several long runs over 20 miles. Our half marathon and ten miler programs typically include maximum long runs in the range of 14-16 miles.
Are the coaches certified?
The head coaches for each program are certified by the Road Runners Club of America.
In addition to the coaching staff, each program will provide volunteer pacers who will run with trainees during the Saturday long run. Pacers assist with pacing during the run but may not be certified coaches.
Are training plans personalized to trainees?
Each program will provide general training plans for beginner, intermediate, and advanced runners that can be tailored to each trainee depending on expected race dates.
We encourage trainees to speak with their coaches in the beginning and throughout the training programs to tweak their training plans as necessary.
Though the coaches are available to answer individual questions throughout each training program, DC Road Runners does not provided individual, personalized coaching.