What paces and ability levels are in the group?

Every season, we have a mix of both beginners and experienced runners & walkers. Paces range across the board as well. Everyone is welcome.

How do I take part? 

Just download a training plan and sign up for weekly coaching emails. Those emails last for 4 months, providing you with guidance beyond the mileage plan. Optionally, you can join us for CRC's group runs and walks - or you can train on your own.  

And it's all completely free?  

Yep. The roads & paths are free and so is our training program. Our setup is simple, with an emphasis on creating a fun running & walking club culture.

How do the coaching emails work? 

When you sign up for our specific seasons, you'll receive weekly emails beginning about 4 months prior to race day. Coaching emails will include training and nutrition tips, race advice, weekly motivation, and more. 

How do the group trainings work? 

We host group runs & walks from every Columbus Running Company location, and you can find the full schedule here. Just show up a few minutes beforehand, sign in, and you're all set to go. Weʼll make a course announcement after gathering everyone together, and the run/walk will begin shortly after that. For our larger locations, the start of the group run is organized into pace corrals, similar to the start of a race. If youʼre looking to run 10 minute miles, simply line up alongside the sign for those 10 minute miles. Weʼll have digital maps available for each route. 

I'm nervous about group trainings. What do you recommend?

Runners & walkers are a low-key, inviting group. We recommend that everyone give the group workouts three tries. The first time might feel a little overwhelming, as you learn the ropes, but the second time is much easier. By the third time, you'll be a pro. We hear a lot of people who worry about being the slowest participant out there. As beginners, we all started from that same point, and we'll have a big mix of abilities throughout the season. If you're willing to step outside of your comfort zone a bit and meet a lot of new people, we'll find others for you to share the miles with all season long.

I canʼt make it to every training session. Can I still take part in the group?

Of course. Join us when you can, and put in those solo miles when you canʼt. Weʼre here to help you prepare for that big race, one way or another. Some people register and do every mile on their own. Whatever works for you!

Is there a primary goal race?  What if Iʼm preparing for a race other than the groupʼs primary goal event?

From January through April, we primarily train towards Ohio's big spring races, from Cap City to the Flying Pig. From June through October, we focus on the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon. Many of the participants at our social training sessions will be focused on those events.  

That said, you can train for any race you'd like at any time, and we'll have participants racing throughout the year. Weʼd love for you to come share the miles with us, even if your weekly mileage doesnʼt match the groupʼs 100%. Thereʼs still strength in numbers, and the training group will pull you along.

Iʼve struggled with motivation in the past. What does CRC offer to help keep me going?

First off, a group dynamic helps a TON when it comes to keeping your motivation going. As you get to know others, peer pressure is going to keep you coming back. On top of that, weʼll be in touch via our coaching emails throughout your training season to keep you excited about coming out on weekend mornings to share the paths with us. We also host prize raffles, pub runs, and other programming to keep everyone engaged and excited for the season ahead. 

This all sounds super awesome. What do I need to do to get started?

Aww, thanks. Sign up and then lace up the shoes for the miles ahead. Good luck.