REXBURG—If running is your thing, or you’re just getting started, BYU-Idaho’s Runners Group might be the thing for you.
Bradley Beaver is head of the Runners Group. Beaver has been a runner since 4th grade and ran for two years at Southern Virginia University before transferring to BYU-Idaho. Beaver joined the Runners Group to keep up his running.
Beaver says he enjoys the Runners Group because it’s an opportunity to run with a group, stay motivated and make friends.
“Usually when you’re running you’re struggling together and it just builds a really good bond together, and I just love how close knit it is,” Beaver says. “Some of my best friends I’ve made have been from running over the years, whether that’s in high-school, in college or now recreationally.”
Runners can train for specific events, like a 5K, community event or marathon. Runners don’t have to compete and can run casually or to improve their fitness.
“Running is a big thing if you look on social media right now,” Beaver says. “A lot of people are getting into running and a lot of people are wanting to do the best they can and just be healthy. It brings a good group of people together. When you run as a group you just make new friendships, new connections, and it’s a good way to stay active and stay fit.”
The group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the steeple chase pit on the outdoor track by the Hart Gym. On Tuesdays the group will run for about 3 miles. On Thursdays they do a speed workout. However, running doesn’t stay on the track. The Runners Group can be a fun way to get some exercise while exploring Rexburg.
“Usually on our slow days or our general runs, we go all over town, whether it be out towards Walmart, or around Nature Park, up by the temple, and all over the place,” Beaver says.
This coming Fall semester there will be a track meet as well as cross-country training. The track meet will feature a variety of events, including the 100-meter dash, high-jump, discus and a mile run.
The Runners Group has coaches to help train members. This Fall semester two all-American distance runners from South Virginia University are coming to BYU-Idaho to coach the cross-country team and help the runners learn more about running and staying fit.
The BYU-Idaho Runner’s Group meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:45-8:45 p.m. You can find more information and register here.