[Michlib-l] Couch to 5K program - follow-up

[Marsh, Nyama]

Hello Everyone,

Thanks to those who send me messages.

I received several responses from libraries that have done Couch to 5k programs. It appears some keep it simple by posting training schedules and organizing weekly runs, while other libraries bring in local experts for more in-depth or supervised training. A couple libraries provided their forms, which include waivers in case of injury (or in one case, death).

One library appears to have their OWN 5k race, with registration, and a very nice website. Check out http://brooksvillelibrary5k.com/. Other libraries do the training leading up to a local race for which participants can choose to register. A couple libraries mentioned they did not have a specific race at the end of the training, which may have resulted in lower participation.

Participants dropping out after a couple weeks was typical. I think of it as similar to book club, in that we need to run a new club for several months to get a core group that comes, with a few newbies each month. Perhaps providing the Couch to 5k training, 1 or 2 times a year, with specific local races as the end goal will help build recognition and participation.

My next step is to contact local running shops to see how much they would charge to lead a program. I am not a runner (yet) to feel comfortable leading it. I have walked a couple half-marathons and my personal goal is to add in running to increase my speed. I could lead a group of walkers, but not runners.

Our community has a 5k on May 16, which if I move quickly enough could be a useful end goal. A typical Couch to 5k plan is 9 weeks (http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/index.shtml). Moving backwards, that means we would need to start training March 21. That gives me a couple weeks to see if we can pull together a quick program and then PR it, or look for a race later in the year if we need more planning.

A couple useful tidbits:

1.    Our first session began in January.  We practiced indoors - inside the corridors of the local high school.  We had two local races to choose from… It was so much fun.  We started up the second session, practicing outside.  We began and ended at the library.  About 6 of us from the library were involved so access wasn't a problem.

2.    Hiccups - not as much participation as we thought.  We have about 20 people participating . . . not all at the same time.  But I believe that this is something that will build.  We offer support, training, gear (from local sporting store) for $60.  Anything leftover goes to a local charity (the High School Interact Club).  We are going to reduce the initial fee to only cover the track and training, then the gear will be separate.  See if that's a better draw.

3.    Yes! I did one of these last spring that was moderately successful, and then I tried one in the fall that was less successful. The spring one was initially attended by 10 people but then dropped down to about 4 by the end of it, and the fall one started out with 5 but then a few people stopped coming so I cancelled it partway through.

4.    There are typically 3 runs scheduled each week, and the group members were on their own for the 2 during the week but then we all met on Saturday mornings at 8am to do the third run as a group. It was easy to use an app on my phone to guide everyone through the different intervals.

5.    Each Saturday run was paired with either me giving a short presentation on some aspect of running that I knew about, but ideally I was able to bring in a presenter to discuss what it's like to run a marathon, yoga for runners, or some other topic related to running.

6.    The biggest hiccup that I ran into is that people would register, come to the first and/or second run, and then just drop off the map and stop coming. Everyone thought it was a great idea and supported the program, but when it came time to put in the work there were only a few dedicated enough to do so. Some of that could have been due to scheduling difficulties, but it's always tough to find a time that works for everyone.

7.    Ideally I did want to have it lead up to a 5k in the community, but scheduling never worked out for that. That would also help with attendance -- if folks register for the race right away, then it's a little more motivating to do the weekly runs.

8.    I participated in a program through our rec department last summer and just wanted to share with you that one of the participants in the program had a fatal heart attack during our last run. He had a history of heart disease and knew the risks, but it was still quite a shock. Mainly, I just want to remind you to have all the participants sign a hold harmless agreement before starting the class.


Planning questions:

1.    Will there be more than one coach?

2.    How do they handle walkers from runners?

3.    Is there an expectation of participants?

4.    Does the guru have a preference if there are 10 vs 50?

5.    You'll have all people? Ages? Health risks? Only those 18 and older unless accompanied by an adult (not a drop off for daycare)

6.    What's the cost per participant?

7.    Is there a kick off where the participants can ask questions?

8.    Where is the training held?  Are there restrooms available and hydration (water) available afterwards?

9.    How many weeks?  Avg 9-10 weeks is safe and good?

10. Do participants get a "team" shirt or jacket for signing up?

11. What is the race swag or goal swag?

12. Is the local or goal 5K included in cost of the program?


Have a wonderful day,
Nyama

Nyama Y. Marsh
Library Director
n.marsh at wfblibrary.org<mailto:n.marsh at wfblibrary.org>
414-755-6551 (direct line)

Whitefish Bay Public Library
5420 North Marlborough Drive
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
414-964-4380 (main line)
414-964-5733 (fax)
"There are many ways to enlarge your child's world. Love of books is the best of all." ~Jacqueline Kennedy
“Leaders don’t force people to follow – they invite them on a journey.” ~ Charles Lauer

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