What is USA FIT Bellingham?
A group of training partners and friends from “couch potato to seasoned marathoner,” who get together to prepare for the 5k, half marathon, or marathon. USA FIT started in Houston, TX in 1989 and has grown to include programs in over 50 cities across the nation and in Europe. The program is simple: Over 26 weeks “through safe and steady coaching, members progress from little or no running base to race condition. Members follow carefully developed training schedules during the week, and on the weekends, members meet for ability-based long runs.” “Why it works: Over the last two decades, we’ve learned a lot about how to help people accomplish their goals. We bring together our members in a positive environment with other like-minded athletes, give them a carefully refined training structure to guide them, coach them skillfully, and watch the achievement happen. Participants show up each week to run or walk, to support each other in a common goal, and to hold each other accountable. In these ways, USA FIT is more than a training schedule; it’s a way of life that helps members thrive both on and off the track.” *This year’s program begins April 5, 2014
As a Member of FIT Bellingham, what do you get?
– Saturday morning pace group runs/walks
– Daily training schedules to keep you progressing through the weeks
– Encouragement & expertise from trained coaches
– Weekly informational seminars on running-related topics
– Camaraderie & social events
– USA FIT Bellingham technical T-shirt
What training programs does FIT Bellingham offer?
Walking Program – Full & Half Marathon – Walkers comprise an enthusiastic and growing segment of USA FIT Bellingham. This group is specifically designed for people walking, but the goal is the same: to help you push your personal boundaries and achieve your performance and speed goals in an encouraging, safe environment. Walkers receive all the same benefits as runners. All athletes meet on Saturday, and as with the runners, walkers start at 1.5 or 3 miles the first week and progress through an increasingly rigorous schedule each week until the season’s ending taper. Everyone receives the same excellent ability-based coaching, weekly educational seminars, mid-week support, and more.
Beginning 5k Running Program – Walk to Run – New this season, FIT Bellingham will offer three 8-week beginning running programs for new runners! The 5k program will meet each Saturday morning for instruction and a group run/walk in a fun and non-intimidating environment. Each 8-week session will end with the option to participate in one of these popular 5k events:
- Fun With the Fuzz 5k – Saturday, April 19th
- Seafair Torchlight 5k (or 8k) – Saturday, July 26th
- Bellingham Bay Marathon 5k – Sunday, September 28
What is an ability-based color group?
USA FIT Bellingham consists of six pace groups: Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, and Purple (walkers). You will be placed in the group that best suits your training pace. For example, if you train at a 9-10.5 minute per mile pace, you will be a member of the Yellow group. This system works because it allows you to train with those who train at the same pace.
Do you get any discounts for being a member?
USA Fit Bellingham’s sponsor running store is Klicks Running & Walking. Each registered member of USA Fit Bellingham will be given a gift certificate in their registration packet at the beginning of the training season. Klicks offers its customers a rewards program.
How can I sign up?
Signups for the 2014 season will begin April 5, 2014. You can sign up online with a credit or debit card by clicking on the red “Register Now” button at the top of the page, in person at one of our first three Saturday meetings, or at Klicks Running & Walking beginning March 1, 2014. In person sign ups are cash or check only (no credit cards). Registration will go until April 30, 2014.
How much does it cost?
USA FIT Bellingham’s 25-week training program costs only $125 for new members and $115 for returning USA FIT members.
Do I have to be there every week?
While those long runs and walks are a lot easier when you’re doing them with the group, we know there are times when you won’t be able to make a weekend meeting. The seminars are important, so be sure to speak with your coach or running buddies about what you missed. In our experience, the success of our members is directly proportional to their ability to attend our weekend trainings. If you do have to miss a week, check this website for the next week’s schedule.
Have any more questions? Feel free to email info@bellinghamfit.com with any that you may have.