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FF runners going from ‘Couch to 5K’ [UPDATED]
Published 10:00am Wednesday, July 18, 2012 Updated 10:05am Wednesday, July 18, 2012Have you ever wanted to start exercising but couldn’t find a partner, group, the motivation or the money for a trainer.
The Fergus Falls Ironmen, a group created by Wade Swenson, Wes Borowski, Jim Salantine and Kevin Wentworth, want to help you get into shape as they promote the ‘Couch to 5K’ event in Fergus Falls.
“The idea isn’t new, but it’s kind of the brainchild of Dr. Swenson and Dr. Borowski,” said Jason Bergstrand, Wellness Coordinator at Lake Region Cancer Center. “This is an opportunity for folks who aren’t physically active to join a group and work out.”
With the idea that anyone can complete a 5K, the ‘Couch to 5K’ is a nine-week program that looks for runners to train 30 minutes, three days a week.
The training will be held at varying locations including the Fergus Falls YMCA, the Mehl Center and Phatty Natty’s.
With 7-8 trainers running different training sessions, training will vary upon the trainer and the skill level of the runner.
Don’t worry if you cannot make one of the sessions as runners are able to get back in the flow of the program.
“Some people will miss workouts, but they can easily jump back in,” Swenson said.
The training is completely free and will culminate with the Spartan 5K held at M State – Fergus Falls on September 22.
The cost of the Spartan 5K will be $10 with proceeds going to benefit the Fergus Falls Area Scholarship Fund.
“The goal of the ‘Couch to 5K’ is to help as many people as possible experience the benefits of an active lifestyle,” trainer Dave Jensen said. “No body will be pushed beyond their comfort level.”
The Journal will be running weekly articles from various trainers on different topics, including the training, nutrition, their group and other topics, leading up to the Spartan 5K.
Contributors for the program thus far are M State, Lake Region Healthcare, the Journal, Lakes Radio, 831 Web, and the FF Ironmen.
Area businesses are still encouraged to support the program with their wellness programs and employee participation, and support the Spartan 5K with their financial sponsorship.
The first training session will begin at 6 a.m. Monday, July 23. For the complete training schedule, you can visit www.runfergus.com or the Fergus Falls gets off the couch Facebook page.
Cancellations will be posted on the Facebook page an hour before the scheduled time.
For more information or to sponsor the Spartan 5K, contact Dave Jensen at 218-736-1537.
