First Strides Vermont is a program for women who are beginning or returning to running and/or walking based on mentoring, peer support, and lifestyle habits.
The program lasts 12 weeks: May 1st through July 17th. We gather weekly on Wednesdays at 5:45pm and we typically wrap up by 6:45pm or 7:00pm at Williston Village Community Park, 250 Library Ln, Williston, VT
Each Wednesday includes a run/walk workout followed by an interactive informational session on topics such as: nutrition, injury prevention, basic strength training, motivation, breathwork, shoes and apparel – and other new interesting topics that we think up! You’ll also have a chance each week to build relationships with your mentors and group-mates, be guided through warm-up and cool-down routines, and get an introduction to exercise training apps. In between Wednesdays you’ll receive a plan to help keep the habits going.
Please note:
– First Strides welcomes all people who identify as women and gender-expansive folks who are comfortable in a women-centered space.
– First Strides participants must be at least 16 years of age. We highly recommend Girls on The Run or area youth clubs if you are a youth looking for a similar program.
– If you have run multiple 5k’s or longer races, or are capable of running a mile in under 9 minutes, this program is not designed to meet your needs.
There is a program fee of $45 for pre-registration via PayPal or $50 by cash or check (payable to First Strides Vermont) on the first day of the program. After you successfully submit this form, you’ll automatically receive a confirmation message with a PayPal link for payment.
We do have financial assistance available. If this fee would be a financial hardship for you or someone you know, please reach out to:
Kasie or Eileen at firststridesvermont@gmail.com to ask about a scholarship
OR
Siobhan Donegan at Siobhan.donegan@vermont.gov to learn about You First, a federally funded local program that can pay your First Strides Vermont fee (and more health benefits!) if you are income-eligible and between ages 30-64. You can also learn more about You First by calling 800-508-2222 or visiting their website: https://www.healthvermont.gov/wellness/you-first/you-first-eligibility
First Strides Vermont 