Lace Up Your Running Shoes with Healthier U’s ‘Couch to 5K’ Program

Have you ever wanted to try running, but didn’t know where to start? Need some motivation from colleagues? Join Healthier U’s 2024 “Couch to 5K” information session and see if this program is right for you. 

The virtual information session will be held on Zoom on Friday, September 6, from 12 pm to 1 pm. Register for the session online. A zoom link will be provided after registering.

The Couch to 5K program is designed to help people of all fitness levels get ready to complete a 5k run or walk with confidence. The program will include:

• Weekly Zoom Meetings: Each week, the program hosts a brief Zoom session to discuss running strategies, answer questions and track your progress from your at-home workouts.
• Group Walk/Run Sessions: After the Zoom call, runners will meet in person for a short walk or run. This is a chance to practice in a supportive group setting and build your endurance and confidence.
• At-Home Practice: To make the most of the program, you’ll be encouraged to complete your workouts on your own between the weekly meetings. This helps reinforce what is covered and gradually builds your stamina.

Participants will get a chance to test their progress at the second annual Wolfie Dash 5K on Sunday, October 27, part of Homecoming Weekend. The day will include a 5K run on campus as well as a one-mile kids fun run. The event is free and open to all members of the Stony Brook University community.

“I am nervous about running — I turned a milestone age this year so my metabolism, body… everything is different,” said SBU employee Jeanmarie Ricciardi. “I’ve never been a runner, but I have always wanted to be. Even if this jump starts some sort of exercise routine for me, it will be worth it.”

The “Couch to 5K” running program was founded by Josh Clarkmore than 20 years ago to help skeptical, would-be runners get off the couch and on the move. Since then, it has become one of the world’s most popular exercise programs with millions around the world following it to a regular running habit.

You don’t need any running experience — just a willingness to put one foot in front of the other to achieve a goal! 

For more information, visit the Couch to 5K website or email healthieru@stonybrook.edu.