Kentucky Derby Festival Full and Half Marathon Training Programs

Winter has hardly started, but it is already time to think about one of the best months to be in Louisville - April  - meaning Derbytime - especially the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini-marathon. 

Did you know you can run for cause? The Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini have a Charity Program to make it easy to connect runners with charities. Since 2005, over $1.5million has been raised for these charities. There are over 15 charities both local and national to choose. Another great way to stay inspired, raise awareness as you train and race. Check it out for more motivation and inspiration.

If you are training for the 13.1miles or 26.2miles for the first or the 26th time, there is lots of support in the area to help you attain your goals for the race from just finishing to getting a personal record.



Local Training Programs

Norton Sports Health - FREE - Program starts January 14, 2014.

Program features:

 "This FREE Marathon and miniMarathon training program features 13 weeks of organized group runs, training tips and preparation. Trainees have the opportunity to talk with professionals about nutrition, training tips, injury prevention and education."

 Blue Mile Louisville - $40 Lifetime Membership - Program starts mid-January.

Program features:

• Seminars featuring experts on health and fitness topics. 
• Fluid replacement drink on training days.
• Training group meets at 8am on Saturday mornings.
• Training programs for every fitness and ability level, including walkers, run/walk, and beginner, intermediate and advanced runners.

 ***The Blue Mile is looking for nominations for people (nominate yourself too!) who want to run the Derby Half or Full marathon and be part of their training group. If they select you - you get entry to the training group and the race for FREE!  Deadline is Jan. 1, 2014!***

Fleet Feet Louisville - $75 with discounted classes to Crossfit Louisville- Begins January 4, 2014

Program features:

•  Weekly workouts with mapped courses
•  One off-site workout per week focused on building speed
•  Coaching for pace groups from Walkers to 7 minutes per mile, including multiple Run/Walk interval groups
•  Weekly emails and a private Facebook group for participants
•   Vendor sponsored runs with freebies and giveaways
•  Clinics with local health professionals, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists and Dietitians
• Free training tee
• Good Form Running clinic with certified instructor
•  Partnership with Crossfit Louisville for discounted class fees

The Training Studio -  $125 for 10 months - Begins January 4, 2014

Program features:

• We are planning to travel as a group to a fall marathon.  Destination half and full marathon will be designated at a later date.
  
• A detailed, interactive training route will be established each week, posted on the Run/Walk group blog and marked with mile markers and water stops each week.
  
• Snacks and refreshments are provided each week.
  
• Several different pace groups are structured to ensure that everyone has social support along the way.
  
• Speed workouts @ Waggener High School (Tuesday @ 7:30pm) in conjunction with Ken Combs Running Store.
  
• Weekly correspondence via the TS Run/Walk group blog.
  
  
• Access to detailed mini and full marathon training schedules for all levels.
  
• Comprehensive online running manual designed to enhance your running experience. 

On the Indiana side, the Jeffersonville Parks and Rec also offers a training program. 

• $15 for 12 week program

Don't forget the Triple Crown Series is a great way to check your training.  
Know of others? Comment below. 

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If you are looking for more reason to get out there and run, check out - I Run 4. This organization pairs you up with someone that cannot run, you run for them, and keep them updated on your races and training.
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