Whether it's your first half-marathon or you're a seasoned racer, the NIFS Mini-Marathon and 5K Training Program will help you perform at your best. Our motivational program includes:

• Weekly group runs and walks on Wednesday nights with offsite locations possible
  
• Training in a group at your own pace with pace leaders ranging from 7-minute run to 16-minute walk for the half-marathon
  
• Training with either a beginner or advanced group for the 5K
  
• Post-workout snack
  
• Parking (restrictions may apply)
  
• Program t-shirt
  
• Guidance on nutrition to fuel your race
  
• Fitness Center use all day on Wednesdays
  
• Perk for first timers and 5+ year veterans!
  

6 pm Wednesdays, Jan. 29 - April 30, 2025 at NIFS

National Institute for Fitness and Sport:
Wednesdays at 6:00 pm
250 University Boulevard - Downtown in White River State Park, on the IU Indy campus

Training orientation, packet pick-up, and Q&A will be held on Wednesday, January 31st at 6:00 pm.

The informational meeting will provide an orientation to program procedures, training protocols, and the Absolute Beginner's Guide (ABG) to Half-Marathon Training: Get Ready to Run or Walk a 5K, 8K, 10K or Half-Marathon Race book. Training coordinators will be on hand to provide expert advice on a variety of topics to ensure your training is safe, effective and fun!

The Absolute Beginner's Guide (ABG) to Half-Marathon Training: Get Ready to Run or Walk a 5K, 8K, 10K or Half-Marathon Race can be purchased separately.

This book is just what the doctor ordered for preparing for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon as well as any other 5K, 10K or half-marathon races throughout the year.

The ABG to Half-Marathon Training provides readers an easy-to-understand introduction to the world of walking or running 5Ks, 10Ks and half-marathons. It is illustrated to make learning quick and easy and is loaded with notes on training gadgets and gear, staying motivated, and how to train without pain. You will learn step by step how to make walking or running an accessible and easy-to-practice fitness routine.

Only $21.95! (free shipping)

"For my first Mini I trained on my own (what a joke) and I barely made it across the finish line. Training with a group what has the same goal is exciting. It's an outstanding program."

"I have mild asthma and never thought I could run 5 miles, much less 13. Now I find myself saying 'Oh I have a 5-mile run tonight!' If I can do it anyone can!"

The National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS) is a not-for-profit organization governed by a board of trustees. NIFS was established in 1985 and opened its doors with the help of grants from the Lilly Endowment, Inc., the State of Indiana and the City of Indianapolis. November 1, 1988, marked the dedication of the 117,000 square-foot facility and the opening of the Fitness Center, which serves more than 4,000 members.

Our Mission
The National Institute for Fitness and Sport is committed to enhancing human health, physical fitness and athletic performance through research, education, and service.

NIFS strives to accomplish our mission by encouraging adoption of healthy behaviors which improve the quality of life for people of all ages and abilities.

For more information about NIFS or to join our Fitness Center, visit www.nifs.org

• All payments are non-refundable after February 1st, 2025. Credit may be applied to other programs or services or transferred to another participant.
  


• To safely participate in the training program, we recommend you be able to hold a 16-minute mile pace for at least 2 consecutive miles.
  


• Participants are not automatically entered into the race. We highly recommend registering as soon as possible. Visit 500festival.com or geisthalf.com for details.
  


• November 1st through 30th registrations are Buy One Get One Free. Once registered Tim Howard will email with a code for your second free registration.