PGRC Running Start 5k Training - Summer 2025

🏃‍♀️ Race Overview

Running Start is an 8-week training program for walkers and beginning runners who want to learn to run, build their endurance and complete a 5K (3.1 mile) race. PGRC's Women’s Distance Festival 5k and Fella's 5k on Sunday, August 10, 2025 is the targeted graduation race. The program is coached by RRCA Certified Running Coaches.

👥 Participants

Running Start is open to walkers, beginning runners and/or runners who are returning to the sport after many years. If you have completed a 5k or greater distance race (8k, 10k, etc.) in the past 6 to 12 months or you are already running 3 or more miles without walking, we encourage you to register for PGRC's Fall half-marathon training which will begin in late July.

🏋️‍♂️ Program Structure

The training consists of three (3) group workouts per week. Participants train as a group with head coaches and pace leaders on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.

• Sunday Morning Training Run: begins at 7:00am. The training run will be held either at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro or starting from Mission BBQ in Greenbelt. (Location may vary by week.)
• Tuesday Evening Training Run: begins at 6:45pm. Training will be held at the Kehoe Track, University of Maryland, or Wells Ice Rink, both in College Park.
• Thursday Evening Training Run: begins at 6:30pm. Training runs will be held at the Herbert Wells Ice Arena in College Park or Watkins Park. Some Thursday training runs will be held at the PGRC Summer Fun Run Series.

📋 Program Requirements

Ages 18 and up with the ability to walk and willingness to run.

🆔 Membership Status

Active PGRC club membership. If you are not a member, you will be prompted to join PGRC during registration.

🩺 Medical Clearance

If you are under medical care, have a medical condition or have not exercised recently, we recommend that you secure a clearance from your doctor before participating in this or any training program.

🎽 Required Supplies and Equipment

• Water bottles: bring to every session.
• Proper running shoes:

🛍️ Suggested Supplies and Equipment

• Hat with a visor: Saturday morning training.
• Sunglasses: Saturday morning training.
• Sunscreen:
• Proper sports bras: women.
• Watch, stopwatch or an app: for timing purposes.

⚠️ Important Note

The Women's Distance Festival 5k and Fella's 5k Race registration is not included in program fee.

📅 Event Details

Date: June 15, 2025
Location: P.O. Box 391, Greenbelt, MD
More Info: PGRC Running Start 5k Training