2018 Middle Distance Squad

We are very excited to launch a new training opportunity for our members. Following the growing interest in track & Field and those participating in middle distance races, we intend to create a middle-distance squad to prepare for the 2018 season.

The squad will be formed from those interested in competing in events from 800m to 3000m and will train over winter and spring in a group-like format to prepare for the 2018 outdoor season. The training programme will run from October 2017 to August 2018 and will be srtuctured into different phases as follows:

  • October to Christmas – base building and cross country races
  • January to mid-April – building speed, including 5/10k races, cross country and the track indoor season
  • April to August – track racing season

This means that during winter and early spring, you will train for different types of races and will be able to compete in cross country or road races, as your training will focus on building the base for next year and also on getting a good level of fitness for these races.

What do you get if you join in?

  • The club will offer training guidance on a weekly basis with a general approach for the group and some individual guidance depending on period, races, availability, etc.
  • There will be sessions organised for the squad, but you’ll be doing some running on your own and you don’t have to fit it all in, if you cannot.
  • We will organise seminars and specific sessions with other coaches and athletes over the season.
  • The squad is open to all Serpie men and women in age group U17 and over, however, this is not for beginners: you need a few years of running experience and to running regularly a few times a week to join the squad. If in doubt, drop us an email.
  • The squad is free and taking part does not cost any money. However, we may ask for some small contributions during the season to cover costs for seminars and guest sessions.

What are you expected to do?

  • Sign upfor the squad and come along for the introduction meeting in late September (details to be confirmed).
  • Commit to be part of a squad and contribute to its development, supporting others and follow the training schedule that will be discussed and agreed (to be best of your ability).
  • Commit to compete for the club over the 2018 season at different races and T&F matches.
  • Commit to NOT enter or take part in a marathon (or longer) over the next year (and ideally no half marathons either, but this can be discussed).

Key dates 

  • Serpentine AGM on 13th September - have a chat - we will be around to answer questions
  • Deadline for sign-up - 15th September - Sign up(if you change your mind re-vist the sign up page to remove your name)
  • Kick-off meeting - Thursday 21st September at the club room in the Seymour
  • Wednesday 4/10 - Social club run (5mi) followed by T&F social near Seymour
  • Wednesday 11/10 - Paddington track (middle distance session)
  • Tuesday 17/10 - Paddington track 5/10k-pace session with Andy & Sarah (TBC)
  • Thursday 26/10 - Battersea Park - Lactate Thresold session (TBC)
  • Saturday 4/11 - Hill session (location TBC)
  • Wednesday 8/11 - - Paddington track (middle distance session) (TBC)

Get in touch if you have any questions - email middledistance@serpentine.org.uk

Submitted: 14 August 2017

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