2009 Survey Results
I want to sincerely thank those of you that took time to complete the Moms on the Run Survey in December. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and I came away with some constructive ideas as well. It was wonderful to read about the goals that have been met, the friendships made, and the increasingly active lifestyles that past participants have found. Here are the changes that are in store for 2010, based on survey results.
A training option for a longer distance
In Forest Lake, in 2010 there will be a 10k training program that will work as an extension of the 5K class in June and July. For 7 weeks, class will go 10-35 minutes longer for these participants from June 5 until July 21. We will celebrate by participating in the Heart of Summer 10k on Lake Nokomis July 24th. The Heart of Summer is about raising awareness for the role of health and fitness in preventing heart disease! The additional fee for the 10k option is $49/14 classes. Race fees not included. Coaches (see below) will receive 50% off for this program as well. 10k participants should have the ability to run a 5k already by the June start date.
A better developed intermediate program
In 2010 I believe there will be enough intermediate runners who were active in the off-season to start the intermediate interval program and keep it going strong. Last year there often seemed to be a “let’s just run with the beginners” default workout schedule. :-) In 2010 my goal is to develop a strong “coaching” program amongst past participants of 2 years or more. The coaching program serves to recognize the commitment and achievement of our long term members and increase the use of their talents to inspire and motivate newer members. Coaches will receive 50% off in exchange for some basic responsibilities and one of these for some of the coaches will be keeping the intermediate runners on track. Coaching responsibilities will also at times allow me to focus more attention on the intermediate runners.
A Kickoff 5k race
The purpose will be for intermediate runners to have a benchmark to compare their end-of-season time to. The goal will be to have as many Moms on the Run participants across the metro there as possible, to either participate or cheer, and for the beginners to get revved up for the exciting goal they are working towards! The Get in Gear 5k is a beautiful spring run on April 24th.
More Days/Time Choices
This is available not at a particular location, but in the combination of the locations. Some of you live a distance from Forest Lake and may choose another location because it is closer to your home or has a different meeting schedule. There are 4 locations that will be “weeknights only.” Participants also have the option of joining 2 class locations, and the second class will be 20% off. Or, if you want more of a variety in scenery and friends, try a metro-wide Moms on the Run pass! Run in any class, any time for $369! You could potentially be in class 6 days a week – not recommended for beginners. :-)
Also based on survey results, here are some things that will stay the same:Saturday mornings instead of my Sunday night idea
Tuesday nights instead of Wednesday nights (although I’m sure feelings will go both ways on this!) Saturday mornings staying earlier, weeknights staying later (8 a.m., 6:30 p.m.)
Large class sizes with low per-class cost - “the more the merrier!” was the number one response to the question about class size. There were also concerns about the two separate classes not knowing each other and therefore there will be one class this year in Forest Lake regardless of the size. One of the goals of the coaching program will be to help a larger group remain united. Depending on coach enrollment, Premier Physique may hire an additional instructor for locations that have high numbers.
Other comments on issues brought up in the survey:
I had to laugh at the variety of colors suggested for this year’s shirt!
What is Tansanite Blue anyway?!
And to whoever said “white – I have to bleach everything” – Sorry! White didn’t win. :-)
To separate or not to separate beginners/intermediates…
This has been a consideration of mine in the past, to hold separate classes based on level. A few issues became evident when I considered this during the season last year.
1: There is a very large “gray” area between beginners and intermediates, especially among past class participants who have accomplished a 5k but have been inactive during the winter months.
2: The intermediate runners are very inspirational to the beginning runners. (They love to hear about how you used to be in their shoes when they say they don’t think they’re going to make it!)
3: I would be separating friends (who met in this class, of course!)
Thanks again everyone for your time in taking this survey and/or reading through this summary!
Excited to join you again in 2010.