Team AIMS Marathon Training Program

Train Smarter. Run Stronger. Finish Your Next Race.

Whether it’s your first race or your next PR, our structured program, expert coaching, and community support help you get there.

Welcome to Team AIMS Marathon Training Program

Team AIMS Marathon Training Program (MTP) is designed for runners and run/walkers at different stages of their journey — from those preparing for a first endurance event to those working toward a stronger performance and a new PR.

Our training approach focuses on building endurance safely through gradual mileage progression, structured workouts, and guidance on hydration, nutrition, injury prevention, running form, and race preparation. With support from nearly 20 experienced RRCA Certified Endurance Coaches, you’ll train with a plan, a team, and the accountability to stay motivated.

If the full marathon feels like too much right now, our Half Marathon and 10 Miler options provide a strong path forward. No matter which distance you choose, the goal is bigger than one race — it’s about building fitness, confidence, and a lasting running lifestyle.

Whether you are starting your running journey or building on it, this program may be a great fit if you want to:

• Train for your first 10 Miler, Half Marathon, or Marathon
• Get back into running with structure and accountability
• Build endurance safely and consistently
• Improve your pace, confidence, and race-day readiness
• Train with certified coaches and a supportive community
• Work toward a stronger finish or a new PR

Coaching & Training

• 26-week training plan tailored to your target distance
• Direct access to RRCA Certified Endurance & Speed Coaches
• Coached Saturday morning group runs
• Local training runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Guidance on hydration, nutrition, running form, and injury prevention

Community & Support

• Supportive, fun, and diverse running community
• Private WhatsApp group for communication and encouragement
• Weekly coach calls for Q&A and discussions
• Aid station support on select weekend group runs
• Motivational and educational resources from coaches and peers

Program Extras

• Technical running T-shirt
• Personal fundraising page on RunSignup
• Volunteer opportunities for family members and school children

Our program follows a structured and supportive approach to help you progress safely and consistently:

1. Join the program and select your target distance — 10 Miler, Half Marathon, or Full Marathon.
2. Follow a structured weekly training plan designed to gradually build your endurance and confidence.
3. Train with coaches and the community through group runs, weekly guidance, and ongoing support.
4. Arrive at race day prepared — physically, mentally, and with the confidence to perform your best.

Team AIMS Marathon Training Program combines structured training, coach support, and a strong community to help you prepare for your goal race.

Training Locations

Group runs take place across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC, including locations such as the W&OD Trail (Herndon, Leesburg), CCT Trail (Annandale), and the C&O Canal Trail (Point of Rocks, Carderock).

While this may require some travel, it is a key part of the program. Training across different routes and terrains helps you build strength, adaptability, and confidence for race day conditions.

More importantly, these group runs allow you to connect with runners at a similar pace and ability level, making training more enjoyable, motivating, and consistent.

Goal Race Options

Runners may train for Team AIMS Run On The Rocks race distances, including the 10 Miler, Half Marathon, and 20 Miler, or use the program to prepare for another race that aligns with their personal goals.

Program Format

The program includes structured weekly training, coached weekend group runs, local weekday runs, and continuous guidance from experienced coaches to help you progress safely and consistently.

Team AIMS is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a 20+ year history of running training programs and community initiatives. Our mission goes beyond running — it’s about building a healthier lifestyle and creating meaningful impact together.

As part of this program, you’ll be contributing to something bigger than your race. Your fundraising efforts support meaningful initiatives through Team AIMS, including student development, women empowerment, community development, and disaster recovery efforts.

This is a core part of the program — combining personal goals with community impact.

Fundraising Commitment (Required)

• Families (2 or more runners): $500 total
• Returning runners: $300
• New runners: $400

This fundraising commitment is required to ensure fairness and accountability across all participants and to support the collective impact we aim to create.

We understand fundraising can feel challenging, which is why we provide guidance, tools, and support to help you succeed. Many participants successfully meet their goals each year with support from friends, family, and their community.

If a participant has not met the fundraising commitment by race day, they will have the option to cover the remaining balance. This helps ensure that every runner’s participation supports both their personal training journey and the broader impact of Team AIMS.

Runners of all experience levels are welcome. Before starting any training program, it’s important to consider your current health and fitness level.

If you have any medical conditions or concerns, we recommend consulting your physician prior to participating.

Training for endurance events involves physical and mental effort. Listening to your body and progressing gradually will be key to staying healthy and successful.

We are grateful for the support of our sponsors and community partners who help strengthen families, promote healthier lifestyles, and expand the impact of Team AIMS.

If you would like to support this program or explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact marathon@teamaims.org.