With the Health Foundation's Charity Road Race happening at the end of August, it's time for new runners who are interested in the event to be brought up to speed and start training. That's why the Learn to Run clinics were created, and this year they are expanding, and have a new sponsor with the Information Services Corporation (ISC).
Ross Fisher, Executive Director of the Health Foundation, explains that part of the reason for picking up sponsorship for the clinics is the expanded focus. The beginner clinics will remain a major part of the program, but there will also be clinics for those looking to run 10k or half-marathon lengths.
Bernie Wlock, who runs the clinics, says the clinics are designed with beginners in mind, with a slow ramp up to get people able to run the distance which they choose. They focus on the skills people need to go a long distance, such as proper breathing, stretching and how to pace themselves. He says there are many benefits to the clinics for new runners, from getting healthier and finding new people to run with.
"By the time people finish the clinics, they've run the race. Just to see so many glowing faces after they run 10km or 5km for the first time with a group of people, everybody's keyed up and happy. It's all positive energy. The road race is an amazing thing to watch," Fisher adds.
The clinics are growing every year, Fisher says, as people discover running and tell their friends and family.
Angela Bethune, Manager, Corporate Communications, Information Services Corporation, says that the clinics were a good fit with the areas ISC focuses on.
"Through ISC's Community Investment program, ISC is very happy to support the Health Foundation," says Bethune.
"ISC gives 1.5 percent of net income back to the community, focusing on activities and non-profit organizations that support life events, Saskatchewan growth and Saskatchewan history. This event fits in perfectly with our corporate goals, and helps us to do something very positive for people."
The running clinics will begin on May 8, and run every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:45 at the Yorkton Regional High School. Fisher emphasizes that it's designed for beginners, and if people can't make the first week they can still come in following weeks. The Charity Road Race itself will take place August 19.
