Please be advised this program is NOT intended for brand new runners, nor for anyone 18 years of age or younger. Rather the Next Step is to take your running to the Next Level. As such, there are certain minimum essentials required to be successful:

Minimum Base Mileage.
If targeting a FULL marathon:

• Able to run at least 20-25 miles per/week (base mileage).
  
• Able to perform a long run of AT LEAST 10 miles at start of program

If targeting a HALF marathon:

• Able to run AT LEAST 10-15 miles per/week

Minimum Pace:
You need to be able to maintain a pace of 13 minutes or faster pace of constant running. Runners who are unable to maintain this pace on the time trial, may be asked to switch programs to one of a shorter distance. We will not be including a walk/run or Galloway style training option for this program.

Time Trial:
We will conduct a 5 mile time trial for all participants on the first day of the program (Tuesady, June 24th) to assess current fitness level and to group participants appropriately for optimal training and success.

Based on your fitness level and goals and objectives, you can follow one of the Training Plans that will best suit you:

The BUILDER Training plan
For runners who:

• Currently run 10-15 miles (half) or 20-25 (full) a week
  
• Ready to attempt first half or full marathon in the Fall

The PR Plan
For runners who:

• Completed the distance once or twice before and are ready to improve!

The HIGH MILEAGE Plan
For runners who:

• Completed the distance multiple times and ready to improve!

If you fall into any of the above categories and are determined to put the time into working hard, we want to help you reach your goals!

The time trial is on Tuesday, June 24th at Burleigh Manor Middle School. The time trial will start promptly at 6:15p. Be prepared for the weather by hydrating properly and bringing your own water. Please arrive early to check in. The program will meet weekly at Oakland Mills High School.

Nearby running routes include:

Lake Kittamaqundi
Oakland Mills HS Track
Merriweather
Blandair Park
Lake Elkhorn

Begins June 24 and continues through October 14, 2025 Meeting every Tuesday at 6:15 pm
Last practice is October 14, 2025
Celebration Party is TBD

Registrants must be HCS member!!

• 16 weekly training sessions with experienced coaches
  
• Weekly communication with coaches
  
• Expert speakers on running form, shoe types, injury prevention, nutrition, race preparation and other important running and race related topics
  
• Premium with Striders / Next Step logo
  
• End of season celebration
  
• Lots of Fun and Support!
  
• FREE SWAG for completing the time trial!

Registrants must be a HCS member!!

Early bird: Must register before June 3
Standard: Must register before June 21

Please Note – you are required to be a current member of the Howard County Striders road runners club (RRCA). If you are not yet a member, please register here – www.striders.net/membership/ – and Welcome to the Striders !!

For event-related questions, please click on the Contact the Organizers button on the left-hand side of this page.