Charity Training Programs - Marathons & Half Marathons
Picture this...
You're running past beautiful mountains and can feel the cool breeze on your back. You run on and then see the cityscape in the distance and know the finish line is looming in the distance. You pass other racers along the path, as you head toward the next mile marker.
Anchorage Alaska Marathon, 2001
Then you begin to think about how much further you have to go. You're starting to feel tired and winded.
Then, all of a sudden, you hear cheers and whistles. You turn a bend in the path and immediately see dozens of people, clapping and cheering on the racers.
You see your coach who calls your name and encourages you on -- You can do it! Your heart lightens as you take a drink and keep going, confident in your next steps. You're confident that you will finish this race.
This is just a glimpse of how it feels to be in a race, and know you have a team of supporters cheering you on!
Any experienced marathoner will tell you that to finish the race well, you need a coach!
While there are fitness trainers, personal coaches and marathon experts who would love for you to pay them to be your coach, there is another way.
How? By joining a charity sponsored marathon training program. The concept is simple, the charity provides expert coaching -- either running, walking, cycling or triathalon training, depending on the event you have chosen.
Travel to the event, which may be across the country or around the world, is usually provided for free.
In exchange for training and travel, you agree to raise the requested amount of money for the charity.
It's that simple.
So what does it take to complete an endurance event?
These training programs require a significant time investment. Consider the time you will be training for the run/walk event, plus the time that you commit to your fundraising efforts.
You will be doing your physical training 4-6 days per week, depending on the advice of your coach. If you are already exercising a few times per week, in reality you may only be adding one or two additional training sessions.
You will be training with the group one day a week, which is usually a Saturday morning. This group training day is your biggest commitment of time. You will be running or walking longer distances on these days. Plus to really get the full benefit of the program you need to attend most of these group events.
Raise Money for a Great Cause
You will be fundraising toward at least the minimum amount specified by the organization. The fundraising minimum for such programs is usually $1,500 to $5,000 if travel is included. While this may sound like a high amount at first, let me assure you, this is an attainable goal!
Your fundraising efforts will be supported by the charity, your teammates and mentor. Plus your fundraising efforts will be supported by me! Yes, that is what this website is all about. I am here to help you reach your fundrasing goals.
The really cool thing about fundraising for a run/walk event, is that your contribution is multiplied by the hundreds or thousands of other participants. Your contribution makes a difference!
So are you ready for the challenge?
The non-profit agencies in the United States that run training programs include:
Read more about marathons on the Charity Mile Blog
Join the Charity Mile Community to connect with other marathoners
|
Please wait...