Frequently Asked Questions?
Does it cost money to join?
No. Group runs are open to anyone who wishes to join. If you want to walk, you can walk. If you want to jog, you can jog. If you want to run 6 minute miles, you can do that. If you want to run 12 minute miles, you can do that. Its up to you, your endurance, your comfort level, and what you are interested in at that point in time.
What if I get hurt while running?
Please know your own running and fitness level. Please don’t feel like you need to keep pace with others. Do what is right for you. If you get hurt while running, rest and walk back to the start. Occasionally, the run group host will see you; but its not always a given. Take care of your own safety out there.
What should I expect when I come to a group run? Does everyone run together? What if I am slower than the other runners?
Expect to be welcomed warmly and greeted by a friendly run group host. Expect to be introduced to the group; informed of the course and hopefully aligned with other runners who run at your pace. Each run is designed as an out and back, so there are cut-offs in case you don't wish to complete the entire distance. If you want to walk, then walk. If you want to run and walk, then do that. Whatever gets you to the group run, please come!
Will there be people to run and/or walk with?
Depends on who comes that particular morning or evening. It is not always guaranteed but run group hosts make sure you know the suggested course.
I heard DC Capital Striders runners volunteer at various races in the community each year, how do I get involved?
Yes, runners volunteer at many races in the community each year. If you wish to help out, please send email to dccapitalstriders@gmail.com and we will be in touch. Additionally, you can join our volunteer facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dccsvolunteers/
Does the running group offer any training programs?
At this time, DCCS does not offer any formal training programs; however many of our runners are certified personal trainers and running coaches. Many of our run group hosts have years of running experience and can offer training tips and other information related to helping you achieve your personal running goals.
What if I want to run with a group but the location and time(s) are not convenient for me?
We completely understand. It’s the DMV after all. If you run regularly and you want company, we can create a group run for you. As long as it’s a nice location, safe course, and we choose a good time that doesn’t conflict with other group runs, it’s always a possibility. Every one of our group runs started that way. A vision of what could be possible. Write dccapitalstriders@gmail.com and in subject field put new group run location possibility.
Governance and Waiver:
This is the waiver including the club statement of medical policy that is the standard waiver for all DC Capital Striders group runs and events.
In consideration of my participation in any DC Capital Striders Running Event, I do hereby for myself, my heirs, executors and administrators, waive and release forever any and all rights and claims for damage I may accrue against any and all sponsors of this event, the DC Capital Striders Running Club, it’s administrators and volunteers. I attest that I am physically fit and have been trained for a group run, and recognize and accept the responsibility of running an event which may involve dangers not foreseeable by me or run group hosts. I will assume my own medical and emergency expenses in the event of an accident or other incapacity or injury resulting from or occurring during my participation.
I understand and agree to the following statement of medical policy.
Statement of Medical Policy
Running can pose risks to your well being. The DC Capital Striders Running Group does not provide medical care for runners at any group run. Runners are responsible for their own health, safety, and well being at any event we host. No doctors, nurses, or emergency medical technicians, or anyone with any medical training are available during group runs. The club does not supply any medical goods or services, including bandages, splints, antiseptic, or Ibuprofen or any other drugs to maintain the health of runners. Physical, medical, and emergency care is the runners’ responsibility. To participate, I accept all rules and conditions, and will comply with them. I grant permission to use any photographs or other recordings of group runs for any legitimate purpose. As a part of this waiver, I acknowledge that I have read and understood all of the above.