|
|
 |
Mission Statement |
Get Fit Atlanta facilitates personal growth, empowerment, & lifestyle change via physical fitness and endurance event training. Committed to the acceptance, education, and inspiration of individuals with varied levels of ability & experience we provide a safe, realistic, challenging yet supportive, efficient & effective training environment. We encourage camaraderie, balance, perseverance, and enjoyment to the attainment of evolving individual goals. |
Frequently Asked Questions
I just found out about GetFit-Atlanta, can I still join?
Absolutely! We offer both a marathon and triathlon training program. Registration for the 2008 season will be held April 12th & 19th, 2008. But why wait until April? Please e-mail your contact information and a little about yourself to Info@GetFit-Atlanta.com. We will contact you to discuss your current fitness level and the best way & time for you to get started.
[top]
What is GetFit-Atlanta?
Get Fit Atlanta is a marathon and triathlon training organization dedicated to give you the mental and physical training necessary to complete your individual goals.
If you think about it – we all grew up playing outside. What did you do? We know that you RAN, you WALKED everywhere, you SWAM in the local pool or creek, you RODE your bike where you couldn’t walk and you probably also climbed trees. So we - Get Fit Atlanta - are facilitating the journey trail back to 4 out of 5 of your childhood physical activities ….no, WE DON”T CLIMB TREES  !!
We offer a 52 week annual membership from mid April to mid April each year. The year is divided into two training cycles for both the marathon groups and the triathlon training group. We provide training schedules, group training sessions, seminars, on-line discussion forums, coaching, motivation and a plan for you to surpass your goals! Beginners to experienced and seasoned athletes will benefit from the camaraderie of our group, the knowledge and understanding of our members, our coaches, our group partners and guest speakers. Get Fit begins its new season on Saturday April 12, 2008.
[top]
What about the Triathlon Program?
2008 should be an exciting season for the triathlon group! We have added new coaches and expanded our program and training opportunities. Like the marathon program the triathlon group trains throughout the year. “Official” training begins in January with cycling both outside (weather permitting) and indoor spinning classes. Group swimming begins in February.
The program is designed for both beginners and seasoned athletes alike. We have developed the program around several “key” races throughout the season and include all distances. So, whether you’re a “newbie” or making the jump to half iron or Ironman distance we will ensure you reach those goals.
[top]
May I participate in both programs?
Yes! Many of our coaches and athletes compete in both marathons and triathlons. The triathlon program is designed to allow you to incorporate your full or half marathon training with swimming and cycling. Many marathon group members end up joining the triathlon training program after initially attending ‘tri-group’ spin or swim sessions as a cross training tool.
Triathlon group members receive all the marathon group benefits plus the additional triathlon group benefits and training opportunities. As a member of the triathlon group you will have access to both the marathon forum as well as, the tri-specific on-line discussion forums.
[top]
-
Who should join Get Fit Atlanta?
Get Fit Atlanta is perfect for anyone who has a desire to challenge themselves, wants to exercise and make new friends, wants to increase their body strength and stamina, wants to look and feel better, or simply wants to get involved in a healthy lifestyle sport – running, walking, cycling, spinning or swimming! Whether you have only dreamed of completing a marathon or triathlon or have done several, this program has TONS to offer you!
[top]
What does the Get Fit Atlanta Membership SEASON look like?
As stated before, the official Get Fit Atlanta membership runs from mid- April to mid-April each year. At the April Kick Off dates we start from scratch (for the very beginner athletes) and we spend the next six months training, educating, building your training for a variety of target races that occur from early September until the first of December.
The target marathons typically include Chicago, Marine Corps, Portland, Chickamauga, San Fran & the Rocket City Marathons. We target the Silver Comet and Atlanta Half marathons. In mid November we drop back in mileage and rebuild again, a little more informally (it’s cold out there! ), for the spring races. Our members and our training schedule will target the full and half marathons like ING Georgia, Rock & Roll Nashville, Callaway, & Run the Reagan etc..
The triathlon group starts up strong the first of May to train for our group target races during the “Triathlon Season” (May to October) – The first training cycle of the year officially ends with Ironman Florida in November. We continue Spin classes, running & informal swimming until January 1 when we kick off the second cycle to prepare for the first Spring races of the season like St. Anthony’s, the Gulf Coast Half Ironman and the Macon Half Ironman.
As with most training plans, our season and training sessions are cyclical. Base, Build, Race, Recover, Repeat .
[top]
Where is the training?
Our Summer (April to October) Saturday training sessions are conducted from two locations -- one in Cobb County in Mabelton (Northwest Atlanta just outside the I-285 perimeter) and the other in Gwinnett County in Duluth (Northeast Atlanta about 8 miles north of the I-285 perimeter).
The Mabelton (Cobb County) Group meets Saturday mornings at Kroger (4875 Floyd Road, Mableton, GA 30126) due to support, availability of parking, bathroom facilities, and access to the Silver Comet Trail. Click here to view of map of the meeting location.
The Duluth (Gwinnett County) Group meets Saturday mornings at Wal-Mart (2635 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, Georgia 30096) where there is plenty of parking, bathroom facilities, and access to local parks. Click here to view of map of the meeting location.
Throughout the Winter cycle, we rotate around town in an effort to offer different and challenging courses. Start times and venues are always listed on our member forum.
If you have any questions about a weekend training session, please contact us at Info@GetFit-Atlanta.com
[top]
Can walkers participate?
Walkers are ALWAYS welcome! We have a wonderful walking program that will enable you to complete a full marathon or the Atlanta Half-Marathon or Silver Comet Half Marathon right here on the beautiful Silver Comet Trail. MANY of our returning athletes have graduated from our walking program into one of our pace based running groups! Your coaches can provide more details.
[top]
Are you affiliated with a charity?
Get Fit Atlanta is not associated with a charity and you do not need to raise money to participate in this program. There are several good marathon training programs where raising money for a charity is part of the program. While these can be effective and rewarding, we realize that it's not for everyone and may be impossible to do year-after-year. Some of our members choose to raise money for a charity, but it certainly isn't a requirement.
[top]
What's the catch? When do I have to sit through the sales pitch for a new condo in Orlando?
No catch -- really! GetFit-Atlanta is basically a running club and training program. But maybe that's like saying a Mercedes is just a car .
We don't sell Amway or real estate in Orlando. Get Fit Atlanta has members of all shapes and sizes (including folks that probably sell Amway or invest in real estate). But what makes us special is that we all come together to run and walk and share our war stories and our victories. We hope you'll decide to join our club.
[top]
I'm not a member. Do you allow drop-ins?
Get Fit does not offer a ‘drop in’ program, but what we do allow is a two-day trial to see if Get Fit Atlanta is the right fit for you. You must contact us via e-mail PRIOR to coming out to a training session.
[top]
How did all this come about?
Well that's a question that's best answered at our kick-off run or one of our social events. The short answer is that several of us had so much fun in prior years.
[top]
What is an ability-based color group?
Get Fit Atlanta consists of six color coded pace training groups. Runners are divided according to speed into the Red, Blue, Orange, or Yellow groups if they are training for a marathon. The Purple group is the walking group and the Green group is the Half Marathon group. Most of our triathletes run with the Green Group unless training for the Ironman distance. This system divides our members into group according to their optimum endurance training pace. For example, if you train at a 8 minute per mile pace, you will be a member of the red group. This system works because it allows you to train with those who are at your ability level.
[top]
What color group will I be in?
Our first two weekend runs are 3 mile pace finder walks or runs. Your time for the 3 miles will place you in a color group. THIS IS NOT A COMPETITION!!! You should walk or run at a pace where you feel you could keep going for a little bit beyond those 3 miles and carry on a conversation. If you couldn't keep walking or running after completing our initial 3 mile pace finder then you are going too fast. All walkers are in our Walking Group regardless of pace.
[top]
-
Why should I walk or run my 3 mile pace finder slower when I can go faster?
Simply, because you are being placed for a marathon training group, not a 3 mile race. It may sound like a funny statement to make, but it is so true. Walking or running too fast will compromise your training season. If you find your correct training pace from the beginning you will complete the marathon in less time, you will experience fewer injuries, and you will have a lot more fun
[top]
What are the weekly seminars?
Most Saturdays during the Summer, a 20 to 45 minute seminar will be presented following the training session. These seminars will be led by knowledgeable professionals from the health & fitness industry. Some of the topics covered include nutrition, injury prevention, heart rate training, shoe & gear selection, and biomechanics. This seminars are listed in you training booklets (dates/speakers subject to change) so that you may plan accordingly. We do not hold seminars on our Bench Mark days.
[top]
What happens on any given Saturday?
Every Sunday the upcoming Weekly Training Schedule is posted to the Members Only discussion forum under “Weekly Schedules.” By Monday, your pace group head coach will post your weekly schedule, training opportunities and the Saturday start times for your color group.
Saturdays are designated as our long aerobic run and generate our largest turnout each week. We usually meet with our color groups for a few minutes before each Saturday training session to talk with the coaches, ask questions, go over routes and discuss the upcoming week, etc. During the Summer session, each group will start early enough to finish training by 9:30 AM We follow with our informational seminars and we strive to have you on your way by 10:00 AM.
During the winter months (November until March) we generally move around town for our runs / walks, we have a mass start time (generally 8:00a.m.), and we participate in open group training sessions and seminars in preparation for the ING Georgia Marahton. This gives us the opportunity to train with other training groups and to see the city. It is always nice to see the other groups and remember that we are in this endurance journey together!!
[top]
How did you develop your training plans and schedules?
Our knowledgeable staff of coaches has developed the marathon and triathlon training plans based on both personal experience and our professional training. There are a variety of training programs and coaches out there, but our proven success in training individuals of varying abilities has been demonstrated by our growth and our member success. Our coaching staff works together to enhance the program further through continued education and athlete feedback. Get Fit Atlanta prides itself in listening to its athletes and working with them to achieve their goals.
Each quarter you will meet individually with your coach to discuss the program and your progress. We note these sessions and make modifications as necessary.
[top]
Do we get discounts on shoes and gear?
As a member of Get Fit Atlanta you are eligible for many member discounts with many of our partners and sponsors!!!! You receive discounts at Big Peach Running Co., Fontis Water, 1st Choice Health Care, Village Health, World Gym, Masterpiece Gallery (framing) and more are added each year!!! The triathlon group will receive additional discounts at Peachtree Bikes, Xterra Wetsuits & More.
[top]
-
-
How and when do I sign-up?
When? TODAY!!!
How??
You may sign up by printing THIS application (link will be updated when available), including the applicable registration fee and mailing it in prior to April 5, 2008.
You may sign up using your credit card, on-line at ACTIVE.COM any time during the season. Please note that active.com charges an additional fee for this service.
You may sign up in person with cash, check or money order on the two scheduled kick off dates. In person registration and orientation for the 2008 season will be at 7:30 AM on April 12, 2008 and April 19, 2008 in Mableton and at 12:00 noon on April 19, 2008 in Duluth.
You may join any weekend after the kick off dates, but you must contact Dana@GetFit-Atlanta.com to let us know that you will be coming out so we may assist you in determining the proper pace group and start time any given Saturday.
We will begin our 2008 season on Saturday April 12, 2008. You can also register on line at ACTIVE.COM
[top]
When and where are the in-person sign-up sessions?
***In-person registrations and orientations will be held rain or shine.***
For the Mableton Group, in-person registration and orientation for the 2008 season will be at 7:30 AM on April 12, 2008 and April 19, 2008. The sign-up sessions and initial three mile placement walk / run will be at Kroger located at 4875 Floyd Road, SW, Mableton, GA 30126.For the Duluth Group, in-person registration and orientation for the 2008 season will at 12:00 noon on April 19, 2008. The sign-up session and initial three mile placement walk / run will be at the Wal-mart Supercenter, 2635 Pleasant Hill Road, NW, Duluth, Georgia 30096.
[top]
-
What happens at the sign-up session?
Come dressed in your running or walking gear! The sign-up sessions include sign-ups, an orientation seminar, and a 3 mile pace finder run or walk which helps place you in the correct ability-based group. Everyone is strongly encouraged to come to both of the orientation/sign-up sessions (Weeks 1 and 2) as the seminars will cover different information. The sign-up session takes approximately 1.5 - 2 hours
[top]
-
-
I can't make it to the Kick-off weekends -- should I still sign up?
YES, YES and YES!!! you should still sign up! Though we’d like to attend all year, we accept members all year because we are always training for some target race!!! Why put off until tomorrow? Contact us at Info@GetFit-Atlanta.com today to determine the best way to get you started TODAY! We have a small army of coaches and members ready to welcome you, answer any questions you may have and to help you get comfortable in getting started any time of the year.
[top]
Do you pro-rate membership fees during the year?
We do not pro-rate our membership fee until the very end of January each year – as you receive all of the gear (shoe tags, safety vests, t-shirt, tech shirt, training booklets and insurance etc.) that make up most of are our hard costs regardless of when you join during the year – That is how we keep this amazing program so affordable
[top]
Does entry into Get Fit Atlanta include entry into Races?
No, your membership fee to Get Fit Atlanta covers the cost of your participation in the training program. We are affiliated with many local and regional races and often obtain group discounts on entry fees or guaranteed entry for our members, but we do not cover your race entry fees. We always provide information about how to sign up for a variety of races both locally and nationwide.
[top]
How much training does this program involve?
Realizing that most of our members lead very busy lives, we have designed the program to easily fit into your schedule. Training for the full and half marathon group involves four days a week – training for the triathlon group involves six days a week. As with any training plan, you may adjust our proposed schedule to fit your personal commitment schedule, your fitness level and your personal goals.
Our long training sessions are conducted on the weekends in the earliest morning hours so that you will have as much of your weekend free for your families & social activities. If you ever need assistance adjusting your schedule around travel, illness, injury… all you need to do is speak to your head coach and we will help you get back on track.
[top]
How do I read my weekly Marathon schedule?
- Saturday runs are listed by mileage according to your color group. These are our “long, slow, distance” runs.
- Mondays are Intervals – these training sessions consist of a warm-up, followed by timed periods – 30 seconds to 3+ minutes of fast running while maintaining proper form and stride – followed by an equal period of rest. Designed to improve speed, joints, form & more.
- Tuesday we run Minutes or Miles according to pace group.
- Wednesdays & Fridays are our off / REST days
- Thursdays are listed in minutes for our Tempo run of the week
- & Sunday you may cross train or REST.
[top]
Do I have to be there every week?
No, many members are unable to make every weekend session. And many don’t ever attend the weekday training sessions. Any scheduled training may be done on your own (remember to be safe )
The weekend seminars are important, but you can always ask your coach or running buddies about what you missed and we post as many seminar notes as possible. All that being said… the long runs/walks, bike rides and swim sets are much easier when you do them with the group! In our experience, the success of our members is directly proportional to their ability to attend our weekend training sessions and seminars.
[top]
Can we participate in races during training?
Sure! In fact, the entire group is encouraged to participate in several warm-up series races this season. We always run the Silver Comet Half Marathon in October on the "Home Course" as a ‘loosen up’ run after the big fall marathons.
We want you to have fun, enjoy the sport while you get into great shape. You certainly don't have to be competitive about it, and it is always fun to run or walk in a different place, get a t-shirt, more bragging rites and cross the finish line.
[top]
Could I win the Atlanta Marathon?
Perhaps! …But probably not. As discussed above each of us enter into this venture with varying goals and abilities. If you follow the plan we can promise you an enjoyable experience day and fantastic feeling of accomplishment. You will get a nice t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, bragging rites, and a lot of cheers from your families, friends, spectators and coaches.
[top]
-
© Copyright Get Fit Atlanta 2008 - All Unauthorized use of this content is strictly prohibited
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| 2008-2009 Season |
| All Groups |
See message boards for start times |
| * Each color group will meet at these times to start their walk / run. |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
