Kitsilano offers some of the best running trails and scenery in Vancouver, so it’s not surprising that it’s also home to a huge population of runners.
Whether you prefer the quiet meditation of going solo, or prefer the camaraderie of an organized group, Vancouver is one of the best cities in the world for running. The mild seasons allow people to run outdoors year-round and the views can motivate you to tackle even the steepest hills.
With a new year comes new year’s resolutions and casual runners often set a marathon as their ultimate goal. After all, how hard can it be – marathons are run by thousands of people every year.
But how do beginners prepare for the gruelling 26.2 mile run? These 3 running clinics in Kitsilano can get you across the finish line.
1. Forerunners
Located on 4th and Collingwood since 1986, Forerunners offers a variety of running clinics throughout the year. Train with Forerunners coach and two-time Olympian, Carey Nelson, over 18 weeks for your choice of either a full or half marathon.
The group meets Saturday mornings at 8:00am for long runs and Wednesday nights at 6:30pm for interval training. Both Saturday and Wednesday sessions feature various pace groups with run leaders. All training runs begin and end at the West 4th store.
The 18-week marathon/half-marathon training clinic costs $175 and starts on January 7, 2017.
Forerunners, 3502 West 4th Avenue, 604-732-4535, www.forerunners.ca
2. The RIGHT Shoe
The RIGHT Shoe Marathon Club is designed to prepare runners for a marathon or half marathon in the Spring 2017. The pace is geared towards runners aiming for a 3:15 to a 4:30 hour marathon, or a 1:30 to 2:15 half marathon.
The Club meets on Sunday mornings at 8:00am for a weekly long run, the staple workout in any effective long distance running program. All runners are eligible to join The RIGHT Shoe Tuesday night run clinic throughout the season for an intensity workout to build speed and strength.
Run leader Lara Penno has over 20 years experience as a trainer and will provide you with all the technical information, personalized advice, and tips and tricks you need to reach your running goals.
The 18-week Club session costs $150 and starts on January 8, 2017.
The Right Shoe, 1601 West 4th Avenue, 604-737-6014, www.therightshoe.ca
3. Running Room
Founded in 1984 in Edmonton and now with over 100 locations around the country, the Running Room has a reputation for great service and a commitment to community involvement.
Running Room’s Marathon Clinic builds on their half-marathon program and includes hill training, 10 and 1 training and speed work to help you build your marathon training schedule.
Group runs take place on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings at 8:30am. Each session starts with a 20 to 30 minute group seminar followed by a group run.
The 18-week marathon clinic costs $90 and starts on January 10, 2017.
Running Room, 2112 West 4th Avenue, 604-225-0222, www.runningroom.com
Last modified: January 3, 2017
