Ability Based Groups
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Red Group~ <8:30 min/mile
The Red Group is designed to address the needs of those runners looking to run 8:30min/mile or faster. It is suitable for anyone looking to run marathons in the 3:10-3:45 range. As such, the Red Group is typically the smallest of the Get Fit Atlanta color groups. This allows us to take a very personal approach to the training program. With Red Group members typically looking to extend themselves beyond their current capabilities/comfort zones to improve their times, attain stretch goals and qualify for events such as the Boston Marathon we look to provide very specific feedback on individual training, key areas for improvement and race planning. As is also the case for the rest of Get Fit Atlanta. The approach of the Red Group is to use the first part of the season to build a good, solid base. As the mileage increases week-by-week, we focus on form and controlled running. The group will run together for the long runs at a steady pace, concentrating on completion of the mileage at an even tempo. As the season continues we look to build on this through addition of tempo running and speedwork on the track, as well as increased pace on the long runs to help develop the additional strength and aerobic capacity necessary to sustain that higher pace for a longer period of time. We know this approach works because we have the evidence to back it up. Members stepping into the Red Group for the first time are consistently improving their marathon times and doing so while minimizing the risk of injury. The Red Group is coached by Boston Qualifiers David Jordan and Jenny Pahl, with the assistance of Chad Hunt & Anne Lorio – both of whom have completed multiple iron distance triathlons.
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Blue Group~ 8:30-10:00 min/mile
The Blue Group is designed to address the needs of those runners looking to run 8:30-10:00min/mile pace. It is suitable for anyone looking to run marathons in the 3:45-4:30 range. This group is one of the larger of the GetFit-Atlanta training groups. The Blue Group is a very social group that pushes and motivates eachother to reach their individual goals. The common goal of a Blue Group member is to run a sub 4:00 hour marathon; a common goal for most marathoners. As is also the case for the rest of GetFit-Atlanta, the approach of the Blue Group is to use the first part of the season to build a good, solid base. As the mileage increases week-by-week we focus on form and controlled running. The group will train together during the long runs at a steady pace and concentrate on completing the mileage at an even tempo. As the season progresses we build on this base by adding tempo running, speed work on the track, and gradually increase pace of the long runs. This helps develop additional strength and aerobic capacity to sustain a faster pace for a long period of time. We know this approach works because we have the evidence to back it up. Members stepping into the Blue Group for the first time are consistently improving their marathon times and doing so with minimal the risk of injury. The Blue Group is coached by Meghan Nicolini, with the assistance of Erica Gillespie-Cochran and Alice Cobb. This past year 30% of the Blue Group completed marathons in under four hours.
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Orange Group~ 10:00-11:30 min/mile
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Yellow Group~ >11:30 min/mile
The Yellow Group is designed to address the needs of those runners looking to run 11:30-14:00 min/mile pace. It is suitable for anyone looking to run marathons in the 5:00-6:10 range. The group contains the greatest variations in pace of any group other than the Green group. The primary goal of the Yellow Group is to get you to the marathon finish line with confidence and without injury. Many new runners choose the Yellow Group because the pace is comfortable over a long distance. As is also the case for the rest of GetFit-Atlanta, the approach of the Yellow Group is to use the first part of the season to build a good, solid base. As the mileage increases week-by-week, we focus on form and controlled running. You will learn to run at pace that will leave you the energy to complete your race. This means running more slowly at the beginning of each run and increasing to a steady, but sustainable, tempo. The group will train together during the long runs. As the season progresses we will break into smaller groups of similiar paces, add tempo running, speed work on the track and gradually increase the pace of the long runs. This will make you a better runner by creating greater and endurance on top of a solid foundation. This approach works and we have the evidence to back it up. The Yellow Group is coached by Barbara Blackford, with the assistance of Olga Henao and Beth Ball.
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Purple Group~ The Walkers
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Green Group~ Half Marathoners and Tri Geeks
The Green Group is the Half Marathon / Tri Running group comprised of ALL different levels from the beginner walker or runner, to the most experienced runner or triathlete. Yes, this is the most diverse group in GFA. We have a great training program that will help you reach your race goals by providing a good mix of intensity, strength and aerobic work. Whether this is your first time running 13.1 miles or you just want to break your personal best time, we have programs designed that will help you reach your truest potential.
With the Green Group you will find that it is easy way to train for a long distance event without having to endure the distance of a full marathon. It is also a great way to train if you have a busy and hectic schedule and you don’t have enough time to run those longer distances.
For the beginner, our program is designed so that you will complete your race regardless of pace or time. We will provide you with weekly customized training schedules that consist of a variety of different trainings sessions which include long runs, intervals sessions and cross training ideas. For the advance individual, our program is designed for you to improve your performance and increase your endurance resulting in a faster finishing time.
Since the Green Group is a combination of different pace groups, each individual will be placed with their appropriate pace group within the green group. For weekend long runs, the Green Group will run together for the first mile at a comfortable pace concentrating on breathing and form, then break off to its own pace group focusing on the completion of the scheduled run.
The Green Group is coached by original GFA member Elaine DeJesus who is completed her first iron distance triathlon, IM Arizona, November 22, 2009. In 2003 Elaine DeJesus joined GFA as one of it original member and you can read more about her journey HERE. Sharon Blok, Robin Hiers and Michelle Meyers assist Elaine in Cobb – Rebecca Bowman and Asha Patel tag team in Kennesaw - all whom have completed marathons, half marathon and or triathlons.
If you are ready to train for a half marathon, sprint, Olympic or half long distance triathlon, this program is the one for you.
Get Fit Atlanta ~The Gold Group~ 10k Run / Walk
Get Fit Atlanta ~the White Group~ The Triathlon Group
Founded in 2006, the Get Fit Triathlon training program was created to support, ecourage and guide people through the completion of their first triathlon. The training programs designed by Get Fit triathlon coaches include plans which are perfect for the first time triatlete who is doing a sprint, middle distance or endurance race. Designed around keeping training fun through group involvement the Get Fit triathlon team evloved to the point where they can also support the experienced athlete looking for improvement and cameraderie. The running is done in coordination with the Get Fit running program. The cycling is coached by Ashton Greene, head cycling coach, and numerous assistant coaches. The swim is coached by Mike Delang and Alice Fazlollah, head swim coaches. The coaches work in conjunction in each of the three disciplines on a weekly basis. Through group runs, group rides, swim sessions, spin classes, transition practice, and skill clinics, the new triathlete will arrive at the event fully prepared and ready to have fun, avoid injury, and cross the finish line! From there, many of our triathletes aspire to greater heights and achievements. The Get Fit Triathlon program also trains athletes to compete at higher levels. Many of our GFA triathletes have gone on to International, Olympic, 70.3- and Ironman-distance triathlons. Get Fit is there every step of the way with training schedules, nutrition advice, skill and strength training. It is a fun group atmosphere to make the long miles more enjoyable. Our goal is to train you in a safe, structured manner. We provide the tools so you can meet your goals and exceed your expectations!
