Coach-Led Couch-to-5K Running Program Comes to Wissahickon Next Month


Photo by Flickr user Rhys A.

Photo by Flickr user Rhys A.

I’m a huge fan of the Wissahickon. In my opinion, there’s no better place to run in Philly. Which is why I also suspect it’s a great place to learn how to run, especially if you’re able to do so with the help of a running coach. I mean, the trees? The creek? The amazingly wide path? All ingredients for the perfect run.

Next month, on April 5th, the park’s Cedars House cafe will kick off a Couch-to-5K running group, aimed at beginner runners. The program will last six weeks, with Saturday morning group runs in the park led by husband-and-wife duo Andrew and Ricki Eisenstein, who’ve been leading the program for three years.

Each week has a different theme, from proper form to nutrition to race-day preparation. Participants fill out a weekly log where they write about their “homework runs” based on the theme of the week. Experts will pop in from time to time to talk about footwear, injury prevention and more. The program starts out very slowly with walk/run intervals and builds speed over the course of six weeks. On the seventh week, the workshop will culminate with a race: The group will run together in the Run to Rebuild Philly 5K on May 17th.

The series costs $65 in advance, $75 day-of. Email ricki@thecedarshouse.com to sign up, and go here for more details.

$65/$75; April 5th through May 10th (with a 5K race on May 17th); runs start at 9 a.m.; The Cedars House, 200 Northwestern Avenue, in Wissahickon Valley Park.

Like what you’re reading? Stay in touch with Be Well Philly—here’s how: