“It was always a pleasure to see the group on Saturday mornings, rain, shine, sleet or snow with smiles on faces to run together as a committed group and offer others to join in and feel welcomed.”
2024 Winter/Spring Training Program
The Traverse City Track Club Training Program is available to all levels of runners, from newcomers to experienced racers, and everyone in between. Everyone is at a different point in their training and has different goals for what they are trying to achieve - we will meet you where you are at.
You’ll receive a personalized training plan from a certified coach, mentor-led group runs, training/nutrition advice, and TCTC training swag, amongst other benefits. Most importantly, our training programs include an encouraging and supportive group of runners looking to help you achieve your running goals!
Whether you are just getting (or back) into shape and prefer to walk/run, or you’re looking to maintain your fitness, or you’re an experienced runner looking to hit a personal best at a specific race, our training program is individualized to meet your needs!
Registration is open December 12th for the winter to spring sessions of the Bayshore Training Class offered by the Traverse City Track Club. Multiple levels of training are available based on the needs of each individual runner depending on their race goal/distance. The training method features a mentor program of experienced runners who have gone through the training program. The training is geared toward those who may be participating in the club’s own Bayshore Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K on May 25th. There are a variety of options to fit the needs of a beginner hoping to establish running as a lifestyle to those of an experienced runner trying to PR. Levels include beginner to a full marathon.
“The encouragement of other participants and sharing their past experiences was incredibly helpful.”
Training Program includes:
Individualized training plan built by a USATF-certified coach based on your specific goal(s), race date (if applicable), ability/experience, and time availability
A 9-week or 18-week program (more details below in FAQs)
A detailed questionnaire to identify your specific needs
Group runs organized each Saturday morning, held on a variety of courses in the Traverse City area
Group runs led by a training group leader/mentor (mentors are matched as close as possible to your fitness level)
Occasional mid-week group training workouts
Weekly email communications with targeted training tips, nutrition advice, and more
Access to a responsive USATF-certified coach for individual questions, training tips, etc.
FREE TCTC-branded training gear
A fun, supportive, encouraging, and motivating training experience with shared camaraderie and team spirit!
Cost: $80 for the 18-week program | $40 for the 9-week program | ***Half off for 2024 TCTC members***
“The guidance from Coach Mike was excellent. My individualized plan gave me the base structure required for the runs.”
FAQs
Should I choose the 9 or 18-week program? It depends on your experience and ultimate goal!
The 18-week program is recommended for runners looking to build a sold running base, those wishing to maintain fitness throughout the summer/fall, or those training for a race distance 10 miles and over. (Pending your goal race distance, a solid running base may be recommended prior to starting the training program; this can be discussed with our certified coach).
The 9-week program is recommended for runners training for a 5k/10k or experienced runners looking to tune up for a fall race.
Still not sure? Contact info@tctrackclub.com!
What happens once I sign up? During the registration process, you will answer specific questions about your training needs and goals. Our certified coach will put together a specific plan based on your answers. He is also available to talk prior to putting your plan together, or if you have any questions during the program.
Once I receive my plan, can it be changed? Yes, life happens and schedules change, injuries happen, etc.
I walk right now, can I still register? Yes! We will work with you to build an individual training plan to fit your needs.
Do I need to be training a for a specific race to register? No! If you’re just looking to get back into shape or just want to maintain the fitness base you’ve already built or just looking to join a group of supportive runners, we can build a training plan to fit your needs!
Have additional questions? Contact info@tctrackclub.com!
Note: Before starting any new exercise program, we recommend you check with your health care provider.
Training Group Leaders
Have you ever considered sharing your love of running with others? Would you like to encourage and inspire others who are working to meet a goal?
Being a training group leader/mentor is a rewarding opportunity to share your time, talent, and passion for running with others in the 2024 Winter/Spring Training Program. Training group leaders assist in providing a high quality training program that is supportive of the TCTC mission and values.
What is expected as a volunteer training group leader?
Work with our certified running coach to help individual runners and the program in general.
Be an ambassador for the TCTC and its Training Program.
Matched with other runners at a similar fitness level.
Lead weekly Saturday morning group runs.
Lead occasional mid-week workouts (if/when it works in your schedule).
Provide encouragement and support to runners.
What do volunteer training group leaders receive?
FREE training program participation.
FREE training program participant tank top.
FREE training group leader swag.
Complimentary entry into local races
A rewarding experience helping team members achieve their running goals!
Meet Coach Mike Hintz
Mike is a USATF-certified running coach and has been an integral part of the Traverse City Track Club Training Program since 2017. Mike is passionate about the sport of running and wants to see the best for his athletes. Contact Mike at (231) 499-7436 or metal1224@juno.com for questions or more information.
Generic “Starter” Training Plans
Below are “starter” training plans. These plans are generic and not individualized to specific needs or goals.
Half Marathon Example