RUNNING START
Curious about running but not sure where to start? Maybe you’ve always considered yourself “not a runner,” or you’re looking to return to the sport after time away. Wherever you’re at, Running Start is designed to help you take that first step with confidence.
If you can walk for 30 minutes, we can help you cross the finish line of your first 5K (3.1 Miles).
Running Start is offered twice each year, with the spring session beginning in March and the fall session beginning in August. Each session is a structured 10-week training program that gradually builds your fitness through a thoughtful combination of walking and running. By the end of the program, you’ll be prepared to complete a 5K.
Participants meet in person once per week for a group workout, coaching support, and educational discussions covering topics such as pacing, recovery, gear, nutrition, and injury prevention. In addition to each weekly group meeting, you’ll receive a training plan with three self-guided workouts each week to keep you progressing towards our goal. Our regularly scheduled weekly group runs are a great place to get your miles in around others. Click here to learn more about our free group runs.
We encourage participants to follow the training plan as consistently as possible, but we also understand that life happens. Our coaches are here to help you adapt your training when needed and provide support every step of the way.
Whether your goal is to run your first race, improve your health, or simply discover a new way to move, Running Start provides the structure, community, and encouragement to help you succeed.
Anonymous
"Thank you SO much for creating such a safe space for me to try something that has always felt so difficult. I still get emotional thinking about how proud I am of myself and how I feel like I could conquer the world, simply from this class!"
Anonymous
“After Running Start, I look at exercise differently now. I really don’t want to go to the gym anymore, I only want to run outside!”
Anonymous
"The culture of this program was so welcoming and inclusive. I appreciated how non-pushy the coaches were. No one ever told me to run faster! And I surprised myself with what I could train my body to do."
REGISTER FOR THE FALL 2026 SESSION
Fall 2026 RUNNING START
Included in your signup is a $25 gift card towards a professional fitting and pair of shoes, a custom ASICS running shirt, Feetures socks, and a complimentary race entry to the Minneapolis Halloween 5K on October 31st, 2026.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I have to run on day one?
Nope! The first session is a walk.
What if I don't know anyone else in the program?
That's normal. You will likely finish the session with a shiny new running friend group chat.
What happens if I miss a day or three of training?
Let us know - the coaches are here to help adjust your training and get you back on track to run 5k.
STILL CURIOUS?
If you have any questions about Running Start, submit your info here and you’ll hear back from us soon.