Benefits

The Training Program

The L.A. LEGGERS meets every Saturday morning at the Santa Monica Senior Center for 30-plus weeks prior to the City of L.A. Marathon in March.

We start with a short run/walk of one mile for new members, followed by an orientation meeting and a chance to get to know each other. Registered members also receive materials describing the course and how to train during the week.

Over the entire training period, we increase the distance gradually to 26 miles. Members are always amazed as they realize that the program really works and they have just completed their first 26 mile run or walk!

New members receive a book on marathoning, loaded with advice on training for and completing a marathon and staying healthy at the same time.

Train with Experienced Pace Group Leaders ("Mentors")

The primary component of our program is our “Pace Groups,” led by Mentors and their assistants.

Our pace groups are established in timed increments so that each LEGGER can find a group that matches his/her level of ability and fitness. We have pace groups for runners and walkers.

Being part of a pace group in itself is a primary motivation for many to get up early on Saturday mornings to train. The bonding and support you get along the way makes it all worthwhile.

Mentors and assistant mentors lead each pace group and help keep the run/walk system on track. Your pace group mentor is your guide to a successful training program.

Mentors are experienced runners and walkers themselves, and more importantly, volunteers within the L.A. LEGGERS organization. We salute their work and thank them for advice and inspiration throughout the season.

The Speaker Program

Yet another reason to sign up for the L.A.LEGGERS -- our Speaker Program features a wide variety of experienced individuals who tell us "the reality" of long term training. doctors, therapists, marathoners, triathletes, other LEGGERS, Pace Group Mentors, and other speakers give us their insights on such subjects as nutrition, injuries, shoes, to mention just a few topics.

Everyone has fun. It's more than training -- it's an event!

Speakers Programs are held on Saturdays, 8:45 a.m. immediately following the Training Run/Walk on training days with mileage of 10 miles or less.)