UNK Campus Recreation has launched a new program designed to help students, faculty and staff improve their running skills while building healthy habits and confidence.
Elevate Your Run is a structured running training program that provides participants with individualized training plans, coaching and support. The program is open to runners of all experience levels, from beginners who have never run before to runners looking to improve their performance.
The idea for the program started with Laura Aden, fitness programs coordinator for UNK Campus Recreation.
“Last semester, I organically began helping a few Campus Recreation student employees train for their first half marathons,” Aden said. “Running has been a passion of mine for nearly 50 years, and I truly enjoy helping others discover that same love for the sport.”
After those students’ achievements, the idea grew into something more formal.
“After the students successfully completed their races, my supervisor, Andrew Winscot, suggested turning what started as informal coaching into a more structured program for the campus community,” Aden said.
The program is built to support runners with a wide range of experience levels. Aden said training plans are adjusted so participants can improve at their own pace.
“Elevate Your Run is designed for everyone, individuals who have never run before to experienced runners looking to improve their performance,” Aden said. “The program is individualized, and training plans are customized to meet participants at their current fitness and experience level.”
Participants begin the program with an initial consultation and assessment to determine their starting point and goals. From there, runners follow a structured schedule that includes multiple training opportunities throughout the week.
The program includes three weekly training runs and two cross-training sessions. Participants also take part in bi-monthly group discussions and one-on-one meetings with Aden to monitor progress and make adjustments to their training plans if needed.
In addition to training sessions, participants receive a shoe and gait evaluation conducted in collaboration with the Kinesiology and Sports Sciences department. These evaluations help runners understand their running form and select footwear that best supports their training.
For some students, the program is an opportunity to return to running.
“I think this is a really cool idea,” said Liz Lyons, a junior studying interior design and construction. “I’ve run a half-marathon in the past, but it’s been a little while. Joining a club like this motivates me to get back into it and improve my time from last. I’m also excited about the group runs — it seems like a great way to meet other students who are into running and fitness.”
Aden said the goal of Elevate Your Run is not only to help participants improve their running ability but also to encourage confidence and healthy lifestyle habits.
“My hope is that students, faculty and staff gain confidence in their abilities, build healthy habits and successfully reach their personal running goals,” Aden said.
UNK Campus Recreation leaders hope the program will create a supportive environment where participants can work toward their goals while connecting with others interested in running and fitness.
Students interested in joining Elevate Your Run can sign up by scanning the QR code on program flyers or by contacting UNK Campus Recreation to register.
