Track is Over, Time to Chose a Running Camp




by Rick Moody


Depending on where you live and how far you want to travel, there are many running camps in the United States to choose from. From Florida to Alaska, you can find the right running camp to get you prepared for the Fall cross country season.

Selecting the right camp can be tricky. Below our some key factors to look for in a summer running camp:

1. Who is the Director and Supporting Staff?: This is crucial information to know because you want an experienced camp director that has a proven record in coaching runners. This is very important for the support staff as well.

2. Where is the Camp Located?: Are you looking for mountains? Cooler climate? Altitude? Call or email the camp director to find out more details.

3. Know Where and How You Run: You may show up and realize there is nothing around you but open fields with no shade. This is not a perfect situation for someone who likes to run under the shade trees. Are you placed in groups or selecting your own group to run in?

4. Speaker Sessions: Most running camps offer speaker sessions. Be sure you are aware of how many they are offering, what are some of the topics, who is speaking, and how long do each session last. The last thing you want is to be dead tired while having to try and keep your eyes open during a 2 hour speaker session.

5. Activities, Team Building, and Games: Do they have these? If so, how are they structured? Who is supervising?

6. Free Time: After running and playing games, you will need time to take a nap or to relax. On top of not going to bed because you want to chat all night with friends in your room, you will need time to get off your feet to chill.

7. What and How Often Do You Eat?: Do you eat three meals a day? What are some of the meals served?

8. Cost: Compare prices by dividing the cost by the number of days. Even though a camp may cost less, it may also be less days.

9. Who is Attending?: Asking questions on discussion boards or to fellow runners can help you determine who will be attending in the future.

10. FUN: Ask around and get the real answers. The last thing you want to do during your summer vacation is to sit in a room by yourself because the camp has only running, eating, and speaker sessions. You will find yourself wanting to go home very quickly.

These are my 10 important items to look into. With diligence, you will find the right running camp that fits your running needs. Do the research and make a difference in your summer!




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