FAQs

When do the Personal Best Running Programs take place?
Our Winter programs typically begin in January and end in late May. Our Fall programs typically begin in early August and end in mid November.

Could I ever run a marathon/half-marathon?
By following one of the training programs provided, including the appropriate amounts of long running, other running and rest, virtually all of the runners we've worked with have achieved their marathon completion goal. Yes, you can!

How many times/miles per week will I need to run?
Depending on your level of fitness and running history, you will need to run anywhere from three to six times per week, with your average weekly mileage total ranging from fifteen to forty-five miles. Beginning runners will be at the lower end of these ranges.

Will I have anyone to run with?
Yes. Our groups typically include runners with long-run paces anywhere from seven minutes per mile to thirteen minutes per mile, so you'll have someone to run with on Saturday. Also, we encourage our runners to hook up during the week with others in the group with whom they are running-compatible (similar pace and geographic location).

Where/When do the group runs take place?
We run together as a group every Saturday morning at a variety of locations throughout the metro area. For several weeks each season, we also meet for speed work on a weekday evening.

How much running should I be doing before I join the Personal Best program?
If your marathon is approximately five months away, it's best to be able to run six to eight miles comfortably by the time the program starts. If your marathon is approximately three months away, it's best to be able to run twelve to fourteen miles by the time the program starts.  For a half-marathon, you should be able to run five miles comfortably three months prior to your race, or three to four miles, five months prior to your race.  If you're not training and simply want to run with a group, the Saturday distances will range from three to twenty miles, so any distance in that range will work.

What if I don't want to train for a marathon/half-marathon?
No problem. You'll fit right in. Many of our runners simply enjoy running with a group.

What else in included in the program?
Besides the running activities, the program also includes
  • Individual coaching attention as needed
  • Educational clinics
  • Strength and flexibility assessment
  • Camaraderie and new friendships
  • End of season parties
What about cross training?
We recommend cross training two days per week. Strength training, walking, biking, yoga and swimming are all examples of cross training that can be helpful for runners. Check out Sport+Spine for yoga and strengthening: core, barre, circuit training. Small class sizes, qualified instructors and individual attention are unique to Sport+Spine classes.

What if I am injured? Coach Amy is a physical therapist who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of running injuries. She is a great resource as a running coach to help you modify and tweak your training program to account for injury. She often screens runners to determine if they need PT, referral to medical doctor or just rest and/or modification in schedule.

    Run FIT Screenings for Spring 2013


    PB offers a basic screening at the beginning of each training session. They are performed by a licensed physical therapist who specializes in running. The therapist screens for stability or mobility limitations that may contribute to a running injury. Also included, upon request, is a calculation of your lean muscle mass.

    Screenings are held at Sport+Spine and FREE for PB members by appointment only. Contact us to schedule. Let us know if you'd like your lean muscle mass calculated as this takes more time.

    A screening is not a physical therapy evaluation. For information on a thorough 90 minute running evaluation including video analysis of running form, contact Amy at Sport+Spine .

    Lunge and Learn on Sundays

    PB is helping runners strive for personal success with boons for the body and mind on Sundays. Throw on your running shoes and join us for an hour of Coach Amy's cross training class: Super Sunday FUNday (all levels welcome). Stay and learn some precious nuggets to fuel your success with running. Class starts at 5:30 p.m. and clinics start at 6:45 p.m. We hope you will join us for class, but it isn't mandatory. 

    Clinics are FREE for PB members, $20.00 for non-members
    First class FREE, subsequent classes are $15.00 each
    Sport+Spine, 105th and Marty
    Sally
    Sports Nutrition for the Runner - Sunday, Jan. 27th
    Sally Berry, a certified sports nutritionist and runner, is coming to share her wealth of knowledge with PB. Learn more about when and with what to fuel your body for races and for training, how to prevent gut issues and cramping and many other nutritional nuggets that will help you look, feel and train your best. PB will provide a healthy snack. RSVP for the clinic and class by January 19th include questions for Sally with your reply.

    Runner's 101 Clinic - Sunday, February 10th
    Coach Amy will review the basics of training for a half or full marathon. This clinic is great for all runners especially those new to running half and full marathons. RSVP for the clinic and class by February 3rd.












    Stretching for Runners - Sunday, February 17th
    Learn when and how to properly stretch. Coach Amy, licensed physical therapist will demonstrate the most effective running stretches to prevent injury and improve performance. Wear comfortable clothing. RSVP for the clinic and class by February 10th.

    Cross Training Group Classes


    Running specific strength training involves coordination, balance and strength with gait mimicking maneuvers.
    • Improves run economy
    • Increases resistance to fatigue
    • Increases speed 
    • Helps prevent injury

    Coach Amy brings her physical therapy experience teaching patients core and functional strengthening exercises to these challenging classes. Small class sizes, a highly experienced instructor and personal attention make these classes unique in the KC area.


    Super Sunday Ciruit for Runners
    Sundays 9:00 AM

    You will move from one station to the next as you jump, lunge, glide, toss, squat, step and hop in this fast paced agility and strength building circuit with a focus on running drills. Think gym class on steroids. Wear running shoes or cross trainers.

    Barre None
    Pilates mat work + barre with focus on run specific strengthening
    Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 p.m.
    Fridays 5:45-6:45 a.m.

    This class starts out with mat work that will recruit every muscle in your body and/or Tabata interval training which will challenge your cardiovascular system. Stability balls, bands, light weights, Gliders, BOSU...the list is endless. The barre work that follows is not for sissies! Guys, it may be a ballet barre, but the strengthening here is every bit as challenging as any boot camp. See if you can do it!

    Yoga
    A variety of yoga classes are offered at Sport and Spine. Check out their website for more information: sportspinekc.com.

    $85.00 one month unlimited with a Sport and Spine membership
    $120.00 punch card for 10 classes (good for 90 days)
    $65.00 punch card for 5 classes (good for 90 days)
    $15.00/class drop in

    Private performance packages with Amy are also available weekdays. Consider your lunch hour! Call Sport+Spine for pricing and scheduling. Some include ART if needed and others are purely performance. 

    All classes are held at Sport and Spine 

    FREE PB Shirt with Early Registration

    Strut your PB STUFF with the newest in PB fashion! Register for the Spring 2013 session by January 19th and receive a FREE PB t-shirt to wear at races, expos and group events. Include your shirt size (see chart below) and item choice on your membership application. If you've already sent in your application, no worries, simply e-mail us your choice at kcrunning@hotmail.com. Orders accepted with registration only. Shirts available for purchase after Jan. 19th for $40.00 each.
    Alo Technical T

    Bella Long Length Tank

    Bella Long Racerback Tank






















    Bella tanks are slim fit, we recommend ordering a size up:
    S 0-2
    M 4-6
    L 8-10
    XL 10-12

    Alo Technical (chest in inches)
    S 40
    M 42
    L 44
    XL 46
    XXL 48