By Joshua Duvauchelle
Training Camps for Running Faster
Individuals who run competitively may benefit from a running training camp. Such camps, led by expert coaches, can help novice and expert runners identify training strategies and techniques to run faster. Various national and local associations offer top-notch running camps that may improve even the best runner's times.
Elite Development Clubs
About 30 running camps around the U.S. are accredited by USA Track & Field (USATF), America's governing body for running and race walking. Known as Elite Development Clubs (EDCs), these running camps are certified to offer some of the best training available in North America as part of an effort to increase the number of elite post-collegiate runners. Clubs focus on increasing running distance and decreasing running time through classes headed by some of the country's top coaches. Review USATF's online listing of EDCs (see Resources), or contact the organization for more information.
USA Track & Field
132 East Washington Street, Suite 800
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
(317) 261-0500
www.usatf.org
NIKE Running Camps
This sports apparel and equipment company sponsors the United States' largest running camp network for runners of varying skill levels and ages. Most camps take place on weekends at university campuses and include individual and group classes that incorporate cutting-edge training strategies. Camps may be offered as overnight or day camps, and there are even camps for youth runners. Find the nearest camp and register by calling NIKE Sports Camps toll-free at (800) 645-3226.
Falcon Sports Camps
A running camp is just one of several dozen athletic camps offered as part of the U.S. Air Force Academy's Falcon Sports Camps. Held every summer at the academy's breathtaking Colorado Springs, Colo., campus, the Air Force's top intercollegiate coaches head five-day overnight camps as well as three-day commuter camps. Attendees train hard to increase endurance and discover techniques to run faster, while also taking part in group activities designed to build self-esteem, leadership and endurance.
Falcon Sports Camps
United States Air Force Academy
2169 Field House Drive
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80840
(719) 333-2116
State Universities
Many public state universities operate running camps year-round. Because they are subsidized by the government, these camps are typically budget-conscious while providing top quality training under seasoned coaches. Attendees are usually college-aged, but mature students are also welcome. Contact your local state university to see whether they offer such camps to the public.
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Sanja Gjenero
