RC Info
- 1. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION
- 2. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION OBJECTIVES Learn more about the RRCA Learn about the services designed to benefit your efforts Important Benefits Guidelines for Leading a Group Run RRCA Coaching Certification Program Additional Resources IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 2
- 3. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION About RRCA Founded in 1958, The Road Runners Club of America is the oldest and largest national association of running clubs, events, and runners dedicated to promoting running as a competitive sport and as healthy exercise. The mission of the RRCA is to promote the sport of running through the development and growth of running clubs and running events throughout the country. The RRCA supports the common interests of runners of all abilities during all stages of life by providing education and leadership opportunities along with programs and services that benefit all runners. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 3
- 4. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION About RRCA Based on the general term grassroots, the RRCA is a grassroots organization Organization of running clubs/events is the responsibility of local people The National Office does not organize clubs/events locally The RRCA provides services, benefits, and programs to support the locally organized clubs/events. We do not dictate management operations to our members, but we do have policies that members must follow to remain in the membership. We also provide guidelines and guidance on best practices. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 4
- 5. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION About RRCA To be a member of the RRCA, your organization must: Support the mission, vision and values of the RRCA Pay RRCA dues annually Allow participation in clubs and events without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, physical condition, or age (minors may be excluded from membership/participation at the discretion of club/event leadership). Comply with RRCA bylaws and follow RRCA guidelines, Operate in accordance with local, state and federal laws pertaining to such organizations. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 5
- 6. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION About RRCA Organizational members Clubs/Events 2,189 RRCA insures over 8,500 events annually RRCA insures over 181,000 group training runs annually RRCA members working with over 121,000 volunteers annually RRCA member organizations are comprised over over 230,000 runners nationwide IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 6
- 7. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Membership Benefits Insurance coverage for our membership is the major benefit that the RRCA offers. This is a group policy. What does that mean? Be a good steward to protect the program for all members. RRCA mails one copy of Inside Track to each club/event contact that outlines best practices and keeps you informed about RRCA programs, services, and benefits. Be sure your mailing address is up to date with the RRCA. You can update your club information at http://www.rrca.org/manage-profile/ Discounts with national corporate supporters More benefits outlined on our website. 7
- 8. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION RRCA WEBSITE: Your Best Source of Information Home Links to News, Resources for Clubs, Events, Coaches, and more About RRCA - Information about RRCA, business items such as minutes, bylaws, etc. Membership - Joining, renewing and important information Calendar Post events/group runs for FREE on the RRCA calendar Coaches National database of RRCA Certified Coaches Services Learn more about the insurance program and nonprofit status Programs - #1 resource for RRCA program information Education & Advocacy Find safety tips and information that you can reproduce in club/event newsletters (must source RRCA as our organization was the original creator for most all running safety tips in the general domain these days) Publications Find back issues of Inside Track and Club Running, embed them in your club site, Resources For sections Find detailed information on safe event management, managing a club, and more. This area basically replaced the old printed RRCA Handbook. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 8
- 9. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Education & Advocacy The RRCA has developed safety training programs, materials, and tip sheets on various topics related to safety that clubs can reproduce in newsletters and on website. RRCA General Running Safety Tips RRCA Runners Etiquette Brochures息*** Hot Weather Running Safety Tips Cold Weather Running Safety Tips Rules of the Road, Trail and Track Multi-use trail tips Trail running tips Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 9
- 10. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 The run leader should contact their clubs RRCA point person or the RRCA to ensure that their RRCA membership is up to date and the insurance premium has been paid for the year. The run leader or a designated individual participating in the group run should have current CPR and First Aid certifications. This person should also keep a club owned general first aid kit in their car. The run leader should map out the route(s) using a GPS or mapping tool. Clearly outline the distance(s) for the run. 10
- 11. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 If your group run is very large and/or it is run on a multi-use trail or road where a permit may be required, check with your local authorities before promoting the run. The run leader should also identify water stops on the route and recruit volunteers to deliver water or man water stops if none is readily available on the route if the run is longer than 60 min. The run leader should recruit a back of the pack runner or sweeper who carries a cell phone (be sure it is fully charged up). 11
- 12. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 The run leader should identify new members and/or guests and ensure they have signed a waiver before the run begins. We recommend having a waiver printed at the top of a page and have all runners sign the page. Now that you are insured by the RRCA - DO NOT let anyone run with the group if they refuse to sign a waiver or follow the rules of the group run. Consider a sign-in sheet so you know who is running with the group, how many people you have in the group. The run leader should recruit a back of the pack runner or sweeper who carries a cell phone (be sure it is fully charged up). 12
- 13. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 The run leader should provide the rules of the run. Remember you are leading the run and assuming responsibility for the groups well being. These rules should include, but are not limited to: Stick to the designated route No headphones allowed No dogs Do not run more than two abreast especially on busy roads, sidewalks, or multi- use trails. The goal is to share the roads/trails, not hog them. Be mindful of your language and conversation content. Adult conversation does happen on group runs, but it should not go so far as to create an uncomfortable atmosphere for the group. 13
- 14. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 The group should follow the ranger rules, which means leave no one behind for any reason (bathroom breaks, need to walk, twisted ankle, etc). Everyone in the group should obey all traffic signs. The group leader and pace leaders should NEVER run the group against a light or through a stop sign. Work with your runners to stress the importance of paying attention to their surroundings. Use sidewalks and trails for group runs as much as possible, if you need to lead your group run on a road, face traffic and run no more than two abreast. 14
- 15. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Leading a Group Run Guidelines息 The run leader or a designated volunteer should be the last one to leave post-run. Most health related problems such as heat stroke or heart attacks tend to occur in the down time immediately following a long group run. If an incident does occur, get medical help immediately. Then document the incident and contact the RRCA about reporting it for insurance purposes as needed. 15
- 16. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION RRCA Coaching Program The goal is to provide trained individuals to work as coaching professionals for the sport of distance running at all levels, from beginner to advanced runners. By working with a coach, individuals will train intelligently, will be able to extend their running careers, and minimize the risks of overuse injuries. The RRCA achieves this goal by: Providing a specific body of knowledge on sports science, training methods, coaching fundamentals, and professional conduct and ethics. Providing a systematic teaching process for the body of knowledge. Certifying individuals who demonstrate they have learned the knowledge and can apply it to coaching. Providing and encouraging continuing education for RRCA certified coaches. Maintaining a registry of current RRCA certified coaches. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 16
- 17. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION RRCA Coaching Program Coaching History Types of Runners and Their Training Needs Putting it Together with Physiology Types of Running: Building a Periodized Program How to Coach: Running Form Coaching Nutrition The Business of Coaching* Coaching: Sports Psychology (60 minutes/2:40) Coaching: Injuries, Heat and Altitude Building Programs 17
- 18. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Business of Coaching Running Leadership Problem, Customer, Solution What problem do you solve for whom, and in what way that is different than others? Marketing What do you do, who are you, and how do you want people to know that? Operations The logistics of how you set up your coaching program Finances How to determine fees, costs, payment method, and rules for running your business Legal You are responsible for mitigating negligence Ethical Do no harm 18
- 19. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Business of Coaching Running Leadership Communication: Coaching Style Cooperative Teacher Draws on skills of athletes Motivating, rewarding, unifying Balance between providing direction & letting athletes find their direction 19
- 20. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Business of Coaching Running Leadership Inspire Listen, respect, accept Display good character Honest, kind, dependable, patient, fair, humble Encourage: Positive body language, offer praise, provide reward, personal responsibility 20
- 21. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Business of Coaching Running Leadership Teach and Learn Rules (safety guidelines) and skills (dont over train) Using physiology, sport science, and psychology (read titles from Human Kinetics) Share personal experiences and lessons learned 21
- 22. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Business of Coaching Running Leadership Create a welcoming environment for all The following outlines basic points to include in a Member Code of Conduct policy: Always show respect your fellow club members at all times; Always show respect and appreciation for the volunteers who give their time to help the club and/or event(s); Never yell, taunt, or threaten physical violence upon another member of the club, a volunteer or event spectator; Never use abusive or vulgar language, or make racial, ethnic or gender-related slurs or derogatory comments at club events; Never make unwanted sexual or physical contact with other members; Report violations of the Member Code of Conduct policy to the group leader in writing. Your club might have other points to consider. However, keep in mind the goal of the Code is not to create a draconian behavior policy, but a baseline of behavior expectations so your club leaders can address behavior(s) that cross the line. 22
- 23. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Use the Resources For Section on our website. Click on the images to access the information. IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 23
- 24. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION 24
- 25. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION Getting Started Goal setting Making time What to wear Staying safe Taking the first steps The Run/Walk method Train Dont Strain 10 week sample program Injury prevention and information injury vs muscle soreness Energy Balance Tracking progress Event participation 25
- 26. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 26
- 27. WE RUN THE NATION! ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA WE RUN THE NATION IMPLEMENTING RRCA PROGRAMS INTO YOUR CLUB & EVENTS 27
Editor's Notes
- #8: We have print outs of the sheets you can give with a RFB decal. You can also download them from online.
- #10: We have print outs of the sheets you can give with a RFB decal. You can also download them from online.
- #11: Most RRCA clubs host regular, organized group runs throughout the year. Group runs accomplish many goals for a club or training program; they bring people together, both seasoned and newer runners. They create a social atmosphere for the group that supports a runners training needs, and more. Organizing and leading a group run is an important responsibility. To help ensure your group runs are well organized and safe, the RRCA has issued the following guidelines for leading a group run. These guidelines focus on leading a group that has 15 or more people, however most of the advice still applies for smaller group runs of 5 to 10 people.
- #12: If permits are required, consider altering the course or staggering start times for the run by pace or distance groups. This may eliminate the need for a permit. The run leader should outline pace groups and recruit pace leaders. Cell phones with cameras are beneficial in the case of confrontations or emergencies. You can call the police, take a picture of a vehicle, and make certain someone knows where you are at a moments
- #13: The sign-in sheet should also ask for an emergency contact name and number for you to have handy just in case something happens. The run leader should provide clear instructions as to the route, the various paces for the group, the turn around point, the terrain, the hydration support (is water provided or should participants bring their own?), etc. The run leader should also identify water stops on the route and recruit volunteers to deliver water or man water stops if none is readily available on the route if the run is longer than 60 min.
- #14: The sign-in sheet should also ask for an emergency contact name and number for you to have handy just in case something happens. The run leader should provide clear instructions as to the route, the various paces for the group, the turn around point, the terrain, the hydration support (is water provided or should participants bring their own?), etc. The run leader should also identify water stops on the route and recruit volunteers to deliver water or man water stops if none is readily available on the route if the run is longer than 60 min.
- #15: Mid-sections of a group tend to ignore traffic signals while following the front of the pack. This has been the number one reason why people get hit by cars on group runs. This will allow oncoming motorist to see the group as opposed to driving upon the back of the pack. If there is a confrontation with a driver, follow the path of least violence. Its better to lose an argument than to lose a life.油 Use a cell phone camera to document a confrontational driver.
- #16: Mid-sections of a group tend to ignore traffic signals while following the front of the pack. This has been the number one reason why people get hit by cars on group runs. This will allow oncoming motorist to see the group as opposed to driving upon the back of the pack. If there is a confrontation with a driver, follow the path of least violence. Its better to lose an argument than to lose a life.油 Use a cell phone camera to document a confrontational driver.
- #18: We have some Hosting a Coaching Course instructions you can take or we can email you copies.
- #19: We have some Hosting a Coaching Course instructions you can take or we can email you copies.
- #24: We have print outs of the sheets you can give with a RFB decal. You can also download them from online.
- #25: Resources for Club Directors takes you to the Club section where you can find detailed information on Managing a Club. Work with your club to adopt important policies to improve governance and oversight.
- #26: We have print outs of the sheets you can give with a RFB decal. You can also download them from online.
- #27: Resources for Club Directors takes you to the Club section where you can find detailed information on Managing a Club. Work with your club to adopt important policies to improve governance and oversight.
- #28: Resources for Event Directors takes you to the section where you can find detailed information on starting an event and guidelines for safe events. You will find sample waivers, emergency alert systems. Find valuable information about working with charities and more.