SCHERERVILLE | Training to run a first competitive 5K and/or 10-mile race is likely going to be New Year's resolution for some people.
Misty Chandos and Frank Johnson are here to make sure it's honored from start to finish.
Chandos and Johnson are certified running coaches who are heading the Calumet Region Striders' Beginner Runner Program. For the past several years, Chandos -- with Johnson as her assistant -- prepared aspiring runners for their first 5K.
"Now we're expanding to help runners train for their first 10-miler," said Chandos of Schererville. "It's a natural step up for those who already completed the 5K training."
Chandos will head the 10-mile program; Johnson will take over the 5K training. And they're starting early -- Jan. 24.
"That may test the will of some people," Chandos said. "There are even some conditions I won't run in.
"At least now we have a place to meet (Fleet Feet Sports in Schererville) where everyone has a passion for running."
The reason for starting so early is to coincide the training's conclusion with two races that will serve as "graduation" for the program participants. They are the Spring Fling 5K at Purdue Calumet in Hammond, and the Taltree 10 in Valparaiso.
"Then after that, we'll start up again," Chandos said.
"We not only want to help people become runners, but help them stay runners," Johnson said.
Starting from the ground up, one of the program's first lessons will address proper footwear.
"If you run in the same shoes you cut your grass with, you're going to have problems when it comes to injuries," Chandos said. "And people run differently. There are neutral runners, or 'efficient' runners. Then there are not-so-efficient runners ... people who roll their feet when they run.
"There are different types of shoes for different types of runners."
For the record, Chandos and Johnson have run much greater distances than 5K (about 3.1 miles) and 10 miles. Both have qualified for and competed in the Boston Marathon, and say it was one of the proudest moments of their running careers.
"There are a lot more hills than the Chicago Marathon, so it's not a fast course," Johnson said. "But you're among the best runners in the world."
Chandos has advanced to the ultra-marathon level and recently ran in a 31.6-mile race.
"You do 26.2 for a while, and you just want to do more," she said.
