TCMA TEAM TRAINING

 The TCMA Fall Distance Training Program Starts September 21

REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 24

More than the miles. 

Learn. Train. Community

Fartlek University:

Fall Distance Training Program

September 21 – December 13

REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 24

You aren’t just following a training plan. You’re learning how to become a better runner.

Running is about more than logging miles. It’s about understanding why you train the way you do, building confidence through knowledge, and surrounding yourself with a community that challenges and supports you along the way.

Welcome to Fartlek University—TCMA’s coaching and education platform designed to help runners become not only stronger and faster, but smarter.

Whether you’re training for your first half-marathon, returning after time away, or simply looking to become a stronger, healthier runner, our programs combine evidence-based training, expert coaching, comprehensive training plans, and weekly educational lessons that teach you the science behind your training.

Because understanding why you’re training doesn’t just make you a better runner.

 

It makes you a more confident one.

 

Welcome to Fartlek University 
Where runners come to learn, train, and find their community
REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 24
FALL DISTANCE TRAINING PROGRAM

Whether your goal is to complete your first race, build a stronger aerobic foundation, or chase a new personal best, our Fall Distance Training Program is designed to help you get there.

This 12-week, coach-led program combines proven training principles, personalized coaching, and a supportive running community to help you build endurance safely and effectively. Every participant receives a comprehensive training plan delivered through Final Surge, twice-weekly coached group workouts, and weekly Fartlek University lessons that help you understand not just what to do—but why you’re doing it.

This isn’t just about preparing for race day.

 

It’s about becoming a smarter, stronger, and more confident runner.

Your Training Experience

Comprehensive 12-Week Training Plan

Every participant receives a complete 12-week training plan delivered through Final Surge—not just the Wednesday and Saturday group workouts. Your plan includes daily workouts, pacing guidance, recovery days, and the flexibility to fit your schedule while keeping you progressing toward your goals.

Two Coached Group Workouts Each Week

Wednesday Workouts
Choose between 7:00 AM or 6:00 PM sessions each week.

Structured workouts designed to improve pace, endurance, running economy, and confidence through purposeful training.

Saturday Long Runs
08 A.M

Supported group runs focused on gradually building endurance while practicing pacing, fueling, and race-day strategies in a welcoming group environment.

Location: Various locations throughout North Tacoma.

Choose Your Training Path

Select the program that best fits your current fitness level and goals:

  • Fundamentals
  • Base Building
  • Performance Half Marathon
 
More Than a Training Plan

Every participant also receives:

  • Personalized training paces to ensure you’re training at the appropriate intensity.
  • Access to Final Surge and our Heylo community to stay connected with your coach and teammates.
  • Daily workout reminders via email or text to help keep you on track.
  • Weekly Fartlek University Lessons covering topics such as pacing, fueling, Zone 2 training, lactate threshold, running economy, fatigue resistance, recovery, race strategy, strength training, and more.
  • A 25% discount on TCMA races, including Defiance, Wicked Fast, Tacoma City Turkey Trot, and Santa Runs Tacoma.
  • VIP race-day experience at Santa Runs Tacoma (5K, 10K, or Half Marathon).
  • Limited group size to provide a more personalized coaching experience.

Better runners aren’t built by simply following a training plan. They’re built by understanding it.

Choose Your Training Program

Fundamentals

Learn to run consistently and confidently.

Ideal for those new to running, returning after time away or injury, or looking to improve their overall fitness.

This progressive program gradually builds both endurance and confidence through a structured combination of run/walk intervals and steady aerobic running.

For runners who:

  • Are new to running.
  • Are returning after time away or injury.
  • Want to build a consistent running habit.
  • Can currently run/walk for approximately 30 minutes.

Base Building

Build the aerobic foundation every runner needs.

Ideal for runners looking to increase endurance, improve aerobic fitness, are newer to the half-marathon, or prepare for longer distances in the future—including those considering their first marathon next spring.

The program emphasizes aerobic development through one weekly quality workout combined with progressively longer runs.

For runners who:

  • Have been running 2–3 times per week for the past two months.
  • Are comfortable running approximately 4 miles.
  • Have been running at least 10 miles per week.
  • Want to build endurance for longer distances or prepare for future marathon training.

Long runs progress from 4 to 12 miles

Performance Half Marathon

Train with purpose. Perform with confidence.

Designed for experienced runners who already have a solid aerobic base and are looking to improve their half-marathon performance or set a new personal best.

This program includes structured speed workouts, progressive long runs, and performance-focused training designed to help you reach your next level.

Best suited for runners who:

  • Have been training consistently for at least two months.
  • Average at least 15 miles per week.
  • Can comfortably run 6 miles.
  • Have completed a half marathon before (recommended) and are ready to improve their performance or set a new personal best.

Long runs progress from 6 to 14 miles

*Flexibility to move between plans as needed throughout the program.

COST: $150

More Than the Miles. At TCMA, we believe running is better together.

Our goal isn’t simply to help you finish a race—it’s to help you build the knowledge, confidence, and fitness to enjoy running for years to come.

You aren’t just joining a training group.

You’re joining a learning community that helps you become a smarter, stronger runner.

REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 24
Have a question? Email your coach
Get In Touch

Preguntas más frecuentes

Can I switch Levels? 

Yes, you can switch plans! Speak with your coach, and we’ll help adjust your training to find the program that best suits your goals. 

How old do you need to be to participate?

Participants must be at least 18 years old. 

Do I need to be an experienced runner to join?

Not at all! Our programs welcome runners of all levels and paces—from those newer to running to seasoned runners chasing new goals. 

What happens if I can’t attend a group run?

No problem! You’ll still have access to your training plan and can complete the scheduled workout on your own

What should I bring to group runs?

A GPS watch with an interval function is highly recommended. You will also need a light source and reflective gear for evening sessions.

What is the weather policy?

We train rain or shine! However, in the event of hazardous weather such as lightning or extreme heat, group runs may be postponed or canceled to ensure everyone’s safety. 

Can I run with pets?

We love our furry friends, but for the safety and comfort of all participants, pets are not allowed on group runs. 

Are refunds available?

No refunds will be issued for any reason, including injury. However, participants may cancel their registration until the end of the first week of training and transfer the credit to another program within the same calendar year.

Build confidence and achieve your goals with experienced coaching.
Train in a supportive, inclusive environment for all levels.
Connect with like-minded runners and create lasting friendships.
Experience the transformative power of running!
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