For new runners, the thought of starting a training program to run a 5K or a 10K, let alone a marathon, can be daunting. When they'll be training outside in average temperatures between 20 and 36 degrees, it can be overwhelming. Yet each year in Kalamazoo, Michigan, about 1,200 runners overcome their concerns and fears to begin training with the Borgess Run Camp, which was developed 14 years ago by Borgess Medical Center, part of Ascension Michigan.
Runners just starting out in the sport, or those losing weight during their training, may not have the right gear to run in such conditions. So the Borgess Run Camp created the "Run Camp Closet" to help out.
"Each year, about 1,200 runners participate in Borgess Run Camp, the largest run camp of its kind in America," said Janeen Docsa, co-race director and Director, Borgess Health & Fitness Center. "Volunteer team leaders suggested and organized a 'recycling day' where runners donate their unneeded running apparel [except shoes] to help new runners begin a healthy new activity.
"Hundreds of items were donated to the Run Camp Closet, Janeen said. "Many new runners expressed their sincere appreciation."
The camp, which has received national attention for its team approach to training, is promoted as a "personal journey for individuals looking to improve their health condition." Camp participants sign up for either a 20-week camp for marathoners or a 13-week camp for half-marathoners and those training for 10k or 5k runs.
By early February, participants were assigned to event-specific teams based on their current condition and pace, and began their training. Team members meet every week throughout the spring, communicating and supporting each other. Many will use their training to participate in Borgess Run for the Health of It! on May 8 – when the average high temperature is 72.
Click to read about last year's Borgess Run Camp. More information is at www.borgessruncamp.com.