2019 Middle Distance Squad

We are very excited to launch again a training opportunity for our members, following the success of the 2017/2018 season. With the growing interest in track & field and those participating in middle distance races, we intend to have again a middle-distance squad to prepare for the 2019 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 2019 outdoor season. The training programme will run from September 2018 to August 2019 and will be structured into different phases as follows:

  • September to Christmas – base building and cross country / road races
  • January to March – 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. The training focus will shift towards faster pace and speed in late spring and summer with the track season as target.

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.
  • This year we will limit the number of the squad to 20 motivated runners: please see below how to apply for this year's squad. If more then 20 Serpies apply, we will choose based on the content of the quesionnaire and their motivation, not on ability/speed.

What are you expected to do?

  • Sign up for the squad and return this questionnaire to middledistance@serpentine.org.uk before Sunday 26th August 2018
  • Come along for the introductory meeting in early September (likely to be in w/c 3rd September, but details will follow about time and location)
  • 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 2019 season at different races and T&F matches.
  • Commit to NOT enter or take part in a marathon (or longer) over the next year.

Key dates 

  • Learn-more informal meet-ups (we will be around to answer questions)
    • SAL match 5 on 18th August at Battersea
    • Rosenheim finals on 22nd August at Tooting Bec
  • Deadline for sign-up and return the questionnaire - Sunday 26th August - Sign up (if you change your mind re-vist the sign up page to remove your name)
  • Kick-off meeting - TBC (it will be likely in the first week of September)
  • Beginning of squad activities - w/c 10th September 

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

Submitted: 9 August 2018

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