UNC Campus Recreation has a brand new specialty fitness program – the Commit Today 5K Training Program. This class is designed to teach brand new runners the basics of running, and to eventually help them complete their first 5K. The 5K is often considered a landmark for many new runners, and could be part of your fitness journey. Designed for beginner runners, the program will take you through each level of progressive running fitness. The workouts will be appropriate to the level of the program, and they will never increase dramatically. Over 4 weeks, participants will be guided through workouts of increasing distance and duration. Participants can join 3 possible groups, depending on their desired outcome – walking, jogging, or running the 5K. Students and employees at UNC of all ages are welcome to participate. The atmosphere will be positive and welcoming, with coaches providing encouragement. If you’re not a newbie runner, but still want to get involved as a mentor, email jlee@live.unc.edu. This is a great opportunity to share your passion for running with others! The program runs Thursday, April 3 – April 24, 2014. The workouts will take place every Thursday at 5:15 pm, and will last an hour. To register, stop by the UNC Campus Rec Main Office with $15. The first 50 people to register will receive a free T-shirt – so don’t hesitate! Registration closes March 31^st. Not all of us born with genes like those of Usain Bolt, the world’s “fastest man ever.” But that shouldn’t stop you from exercising to increase your fitness level. I know from experience that the first step feels like the hardest. I first started running in 7^th grade as a beginner in cross country at my middle school. Although the onset was hard, my body adjusted and I eventually came to love the sport, with the help of my team and coach. This program will give you that same experience. We’ll provide the workouts, education, and encouragement – you provide the commitment. Ready to get started? Begin your running career here.

Workout Wednesday blog posts are written by UNC Campus Recreation staff members. Each Wednesday we’ll be swapping blog posts with the Tarheel Tone Up blog so that readers can view more diverse post topics that will benefit their health and wellness. Workout Wednesday blog posts can be found both here and on tarheeltoneup.com.