RUN LEADS

What is a Run Lead?

A Run Lead is a mentor. A Run Lead is a cheerleader. A Run Lead is a coach. A Run Lead is someone who believes in the transformative power of running and walking because it has transformed them in a way that motivates them to share it with others. This inquiry about becoming a Run Lead from a 2023 Kilometer Kids Charity Team athlete says it best:

"Hi there, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to inquire about how to become a Run Lead with Atlanta Track Club. I was recently one of five members representing Kilometer Kids at this years' New York City Marathon. The In-Training program is the biggest reason why I ran a PR of 3:01:33. Now, I want to give back to the program that helped me reach my goal so that others may do the same! Please let me know how I can be involved."

Run Leads are volunteers who help fellow athletes achieve their running and walking goals. That goal may be a podium finish, a Boston Qualifying time, a personal best, or a finish line crossed. Run Leads assist in the weekly delivery of Atlanta Track Club In-Training programs. In addition to coaching and mentoring, Run Leads foster a community of support and encouragement during training sessions and promote the Club's mission of creating an active and healthy Atlanta. Examples of program support include but are not limited to: running/walking with participant athletes, course and hydration setup, home base setup, course monitoring, participant communication, and practice attendance. As Atlanta Track Club representatives, Run Leads cultivate program participants as potential members and emphasize the core values of the Club and its In-Training programs.


Meet Our In-Training Certified Coaches and Run Leads

Goals and Objectives of In-Training Programs

    • Educate runners/walkers to confidently cross their finish line.
    • Provide training support with professional coaching and organized pace runs to enable participants to safely and comfortably complete their goal event.
    • Provide premier level education and resources for runners at all levels of fitness and experience.
    • Live out Atlanta Track Club's mission of creating a more-active and healthier Atlanta through training.

    Run Lead Requirements

      • Must be a current active Atlanta Track Club Member.
      • Run Lead volunteers are required to be at least 21 years of age.
      • Act as representatives of Atlanta Track Club and maintain a courteous and professional demeanor at all times. This includes face-to-face interactions, social media, and other forms of communication.
      • Sign and adhere to Atlanta Track Club's Volunteer Code of Conduct.
      • Respect the values, standards, procedures and systems of Atlanta Track Club that contribute to the success of the In-Training programs. Follow safety protocols of running and rules of the road.
      • Attend mandatory preseason meetings and orientation.
      • Attend at least 80% of the in-person training sessions or virtual weekly meetings during the program.
      • Perform duties as assigned to the best of your ability. Arrive early and remain present at practices or events until dismissed or relieved of responsibilities. Follow through with correspondence and be actively engaged.
      • Actively engage participants during the run or during the week. Always find yourself with a participant even on bad days.
      • Adhere to Atlanta Track Club's policy of not sharing any In-Training program materials including but not limited to: training schedule, resource documents, program communications, newsletters, and any other Atlanta Track Club In-Training related correspondence.
      • Ensure that your participants are always safe, engaged, and have the knowledge they need to succeed in reaching their goals.
      • Help us prepare for the future: identity and train new leaders in our community.
      • Provide honest feedback on our programs and the volunteer experience.

      One of the benefits of serving as a Run Lead is an opportunity to increase your knowledge in coaching and training. In-Training delivers a yearly coaching certification course that covers a broad range of coaching and training topics including:

      • Atlanta Track Club Coaching Philosophy
      • Scientific Principles
      • Biomechanics
      • Energy Systems
      • Types of Workouts
      • Environmental Conditions
      • Equipment
      • Progressive Training through Periodization
      • Training Design
      • Recovery
      • Fueling, Hydration, and Nutrition
      In-Training Certified Coach Logo

      How To Apply

      If you're interested in becoming a Run Lead, please email us at training@atlantatrackclub.org. Thank you.