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BEST FOR: Anybody who wants to run the 8K, Half Marathon or Marathon in Richmond, Virginia on November 16, 2024 as part of a team. "Better Together is the only way I want to do races now," proclaimed participant Sarah J. after her 2023 Better Together marathon finish line, and we couldn't agree more. Better Together combines everything that makes Another Mother Runner great: the power of community, a place to show up exactly how—and who—you are, proven training programs, and a collective finish line to celebrate. Whether you want to bring a friend and run the 8K side-by-side, aim for a PR in the half marathon, or take on your very first 26.2, Better Together turns your training cycle and race day into a team effort. As you train for the distance of your choice, you'll have training buddies (either virtual or IRL), regular team meetings to check-in with your coaches and teammates, and the feeling that you're part of something bigger than the splits on your GPS. Then, we'll gather for a celebratory race experience in Richmond, which proclaims itself America's Friendliest Marathon (and half marathon and 8K) for Better Together. Coincidence? We think not. TRAINING DETAILS 8K: 12-week program; training begins August 26, 2024 Half Marathon: 15-week programs; training begins August 5, 2024 Marathon: 18-week programs; training begins July 15, 2024 RACE DETAILS: Richmond Marathon, Half Marathon and 8K, November 16, 2024 Register for your race distance, and you'll receive an email with more details and next steps. -
PROGRAM DATES: Rolling admission; the program starts the Monday after you register. BEST FOR: Runners looking to expand their training to the trails! PREREQS: You need to be a regular runner—at least 30-40 minutes, 3-4 times a week for at least six weeks–with no current injuries. The first week of training features a 50-minute run, as well as some hill repeats and a trail run. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 8When you’re running on dirt through trees, not on pavement through suburbia, your spirit has the opportunity to truly soar. With cars, buildings, and other distractions to a minimum, you breath in the fresh air, flow through nature, and connect with your surroundings—and yourself—on a more fundamental level.
That said, running on trails can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before. Taking your miles off-road means adjusting your effort and paces; getting your body and running form ready for uneven, sometimes jarring terrain; acquiring the correct gear for more advanced trails; and having the basic skills to feel strong so you can run with confidence on all trails. -
PROGRAM DATES: Rolling admission. Your program begins the Monday after you register. BEST FOR: Women interested learning how to get more comfortable + knowledgeable about cycling. PREREQS: You do need to know how to ride a bike, but you don’t need to be able to ride it far. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 8 Riding a bike is fairly simple, but cycling—riding a bike for a workout—can be a little more complex. Not only do you need to be able to handle your bike capably and use your gears smoothly, you also need to navigate traffic, climb efficiently, descend safely, and give enough effort so you feel like you've had a good workout. (And don't even get us started on changing a flat tire...) If you're interested in becoming a more capable cyclist and/or want to integrate cycling into your running routine, Become a Cyclist is the perfect program for you. Coaches Jennifer Harrison and Elizabeth Waterstraat will be virtually hanging out in the back pocket of your cycling jersey, teaching you all the best tips + tricks they know as well as answering any questions along the way. In addition, your teammates—like-minded women also getting their cycling legs underneath them—will be doing the exact same workouts as as you. In other words, you may be riding solo, but you're far from alone. -
BEST FOR: Those running for the first time or returning after some time off PREREQS: Able to complete a brisk walk or a run/walk combo for a continuous 15-20 minutes. Ideally you've been working out for 20 minutes a couple times a week for at least a month, however if you don’t meet the exact qualifications, no biggie, it will still work. This program is perfect for those who’ve never run before, are coming back to running from an injury, having a baby, or other running hiatus. If you have been injured, please stay on top of any prescribed physical therapy, foam rolling and other rehab techniques so you can stay injury free. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 12The 5K is the most welcoming and accessible training cycle and race; the training program and race distance is perfect for those running for the first time or returning after some time off. As you train for your 5K, you will improve your cardiovascular fitness and overall strength with cross-training and other workouts that include hills (promise, they’re more fun than they sound!) and speedier sessions.
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BEST FOR: A new or returning runner trying to run the full 5K distance PREREQS: Able to run 20–30 minutes without walking at least 2–3 times per week. Race experience not necessary, but if you’ve pinned on a bib for a 5K or another race distance, cool. An injury-free body is key; if you’ve got lingering issues that are on their way out the door, be sure to keep up the physical therapy and/or foam rolling to continue to encourage their exit. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 8The 5K: Run Program is designed to train you to run a 5K race (3.1 miles of awesome!). You’ll build endurance and stamina with long runs; build strength with heart-pumping circuits and challenging, fun workouts (no, that’s not an oxymoron); and increase your speed with intervals and hill workouts.
The 5K is the most welcoming and accessible running distance. Don’t let the shorter distance fool you, though: Running (and racing) a 5K can be crazy rewarding and just wee bit taxing. The good news? Training for a 5K can be as fulfilling as training for a longer race, but with less of a time commitment on your part.
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BEST FOR: Experienced runners looking for a PR PREREQS: For at least the past month, you have run 30-40 minutes (without walking) at least 3-4 times per week; your total weekly mileage should be at 15, if not higher. Race experience, especially in a 5K, is very helpful, so you’ll know how demanding a full-on 3.1 miles can be. An injury-free body is also key; if you’ve got lingering issues that are on their way out the door, be sure to keep up the physical therapy and/or foam rolling to continue to encourage their exit. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 8The focus of this 8-week program is to polish your speed, strength, and endurance so you can, if conditions allow, PR a 5K. You’ll increase endurance and stamina with long runs; strength with heart-pumping circuits and fun workouts; and speed with intervals and hill workouts.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50K run, likely on trails. PREREQS: Have run at least one marathon (road or trail) in the last year; been running consistently for at least one year; have a current mileage base of 20-25 miles/week for at least 8-10 weeks (plus your weekly long run should be in the 8-10 mile range); no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); time to commit to the running program AND the strength circuits and weekly yoga. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20 Each week, there are five runs (one is an optional walk); two strength circuits; one yoga session; and one rest day. Together, the combination builds a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day. -
BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50 Mile race, likely on trails. PREREQS: Have completed a 50K within 12 months of starting program; no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; have a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); a nearby physical therapist who knows your body + your goals and who you can see regularly, especially in the thick of training; a foam rolling routine you will complete regularly (at least 3x a week); enough time to train and recovery properly (time to prepare food + eat well, foam roll, get adequate sleep) NUMBER OF WEEKS: 22This 22-week 50 Mile program is designed for beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50 Mile race, likely on trails. There are five to six weekly runs and two weekly strength circuits that build a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day.
If you don’t meet them but are drooling at the thought of a 50 Miler, please email us at tlamclub@anothermotherrunner.com and we’ll chat.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 30K trail run. PREREQS: Have run at least one 10K (road or trail) in the last year; been running or walking consistently for at least 6 months; have a current mileage base of 15 miles/week for at least 8-10 weeks; no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); time to commit to the running program AND the strength circuits and weekly yoga. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 16 This 16-week program is designed to get you to the starting line of a 30K trail event feeling race-ready and strong. There is quite a bit of elevation work in the training because most trail races have plenty of hills. Even if your race is relatively flat, you will gain strength and speed through lots of climbing. Each week, there are five runs (one is an optional hike); two strength circuits; one yoga session; and one rest day. Together, the combination builds a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day. -
BEST FOR: Those looking to complete a marathon with no time goals in mind PREREQS: Some run/walk experience; completed a half marathon or two; the ability to run/walk at least 60 minutes straight; current weekly mileage from 15 - 20 miles per week; injury free and in the habit of strength training twice a week in order to protect against injury NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18The 26.2: Run/Walk the Distance program is designed for those looking to complete a marathon with no time goals in mind: it could be your first go at the distance, you might be returning from having a baby, or you want a kinder, gentler way to tackle 26.2.
You’ll be training with incrementally longer running to walking intervals; you’ll start at 4:1 run/walk intervals, and build to 15:2 by race day, long enough to slow down at the aid station and fuel up and then hit the ground running again. We’re going to keep the paces easy on this one, but we’re going to make sure you get in the mileage you need for a marathon. Each week will also include one long walk, which is factored into the weekly totals, so keep that in mind when you see the big numbers. You'll definitely get that same high crossing the finish line as your running sisters taking on more aggressive plans.
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BEST FOR: Well-trained and experienced marathoners PREREQS: Runners should have at least three marathons in the past three or four years; have established a solid base (long runs begin at 10 miles and the first week totals 27 miles); an injury free body. You will hit the ground running (literally!), so be mentally and physically ready for that reality. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18Point blank: 26.2: Obliterate the Distance is our toughest traditional running plan, and you should be well-trained and injury free to even consider it. It’s going to take some deep digging and dedication, not to mention a big investment in time.
We want you to have at least three marathons under your belt and a good base in those legs (read: at least five years of running). That said, if you’re after a BQ or a PR, this plan is your best shot. You’re going to come out of this program stronger than ever and ready to take things to the next level. You’ll run hills and mile repeats, hang in during tempo sessions, and spend plenty of time at race pace. You’ll also hammer out eight runs that are 15 miles or longer, but there are two cutback weeks woven into the first 15 weeks before you taper.
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BEST FOR: Runners looking to tackle their first 26.2, or a returning runner PREREQS: Logged at least 12 months of consistent weekly mileage; completed a race or two; having finished a half-marathon isn’t a firm prereq, but definitely helpful. At a minimum, you should be able to currently run eight miles comfortably and have no injuries. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18 This marathon program is designed for runners looking to tackle their first 26.2—or somebody who is coming back from an injury, a pregnancy, or is more interested in finishing the marathon than racing the marathon. We’ll ease you into the distance but we’re not gonna lie: Training for a marathon is a big deal. This plan makes the path seem manageable. (Sorta like bagged salads make veggies at dinner doable.) Training to cover 26.2 miles requires consistency and commitment, especially on the weekly long runs.