Runners Edge Full/Half Marathon Training Group

Want to run a half or full marathon this fall or winter?

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced runner seeking a new challenge, our training program will prepare you to run your best! 

What you can expect: Learn how to safely increase your mileage, different types of speed workouts to including track-specific workouts, why easy recovery runs matter, and the importance of nutrition, and hydration. 

It doesn't matter if it's your first or your tenth race, the marathon is an endurance event like no other. Your goals may include a start line at World Marathon Major, qualifying for Boston or maybe you want to maintain your endurance through the fall season, our program will help you get there! The 16-week training program combines structured long runs with additional midweek workouts to help you reach your goal with the support of a running community, or without leaving your neighborhood.

Our target races this year are the Jacksonville Half & Full marathons on December 12th and the Palm Beaches Half & Full marathons on December 13th.  You pick the race; we help you prepare! 

The 2025 training program includes:

• In-person and remote athlete options
• Small group workouts during the week and larger long runs on Saturdays
• Customized training levels to meet your current fitness, experience, and goals
• Individualized workouts to prepare you for the race of your choice
• Unlimited communication access to your coaches via email and text message
• Online platforms to build community and camaraderie for both virtual and in person participants
• A relationship where we are able to use our expertise to offer advice and provide mentoring regarding all aspects of your running journey, including racing.
• Training shirt for both in-person and remote athletes.

FAQ:

1. Where and when will we be meeting for group runs together? We will be meeting every Saturday morning at 6:00am for a group long run and Thursday evening at 6:30pm for a shorter speed-focused run at Runners Edge.  The Saturday group long runs will be divided into pace groups, and water and Gatorade will be available.
2. Am I too slow to train with the group? Will I have company? No one is too slow to be a participant! We divide everyone into pace groups for each Saturday group run, so everyone is running with others of similar fitness and ability. Last year, race paces ranged from 6:45 min/mile to 13:00 min/mile.
3. How far do I need to be able to run or walk? If you can currently/run walk three miles, you can complete the training program. 
4. Why would I need an official training group? Increased motivation, accountability and better finish line results.
5. What is the best way to contact the coaches? Coaches check emails daily, or by text/call if needed urgently.
6. How often will the coaches communicate with us? Coaches will send out weekly email messages with training tips and program updates. They will also give a brief (3-5 minutes) training intro before the start of each Saturday group run. Coaches will run with different participants during weekly runs.
7. When is the first meeting? 1st Meeting (orientation with no run) Thursday 8/28 7:00pm. First official run Saturday, August 30th. Includes free entry into Summers End 5K on 8/31/25 6pm.

If you have been thinking about getting a coach, now is the perfect time to try. You don't have to be afraid of any long-term commitments. Our program is only 16 weeks long.