P R E R E Q U I S I T E S

Prerequisites for our approach to training

We believe that most people training for a marathon either try to over-do it or simply do not do their homework and train too little. That is where we try to temper the storm. We require that you have at least a year’s worth of casual or fitness running under your belt before starting this or any marathon program. Beginners, we ask that you to get a doctor’s release (handed out at orientations) and/or be free from acute lower body and back problems. Besides this, you’ll need a great attitude, common sense, belief in yourself, ability to follow through, desire to complete a half or full marathon, the discipline it takes to stay consistent, excitement about getting started, time to train in all ways necessary, patience, commitment, and a dream.

It is a performance goal first and foremost that requires dedication, hard work and desire. If your first, primary or biggest motivator is just to lose weight, this is not a good idea for you. Instead, speak with an InnerStrength coach/performance trainer on getting an individual program set up for you. We can get you prepped for this type of training and do it the right way.

Our approach involves continual running, and walking when needed as opposed to regular intervals of walking. However, any previously taught style is hosted and often recommended. We train you as unique individuals, not from a handout or chart. You will be running your own pace, your own race. You will be taught how to listen to your body and develop a "fitness instinct"- to listen to your body and give it a rest or stretch when it is asking for it. Your speed will improve over the year, but we do not promote speed for first time marathon runners. Instead, our goal is to have first time marathoners do something wonderful without negative pressure or competition, to be happy with their performance, to help new runners enter the sport safely, and to instill the attitude and desire to want more. Because once you complete a marathon, you will forever look at challenges differently. Confidence, moderation, education, personal pace, personal goals, and overcoming personal roadblocks. That is what we offer for beginners.

And yes, we have some very speedy seasoned veterans in our group. Like Chris Stark of Team Mitochondria of the 2002 Eco-Challenge in Fiji and other veteran InnerStrength group runners!

We will help you make a detailed plan that attacks your desires, but most importantly, we will guide you to success. After all, a goal without a plan is a dream! When you train for a specific purpose, there is new meaning to your life. Let us have the honor of working with you.