connect W I N T E R 2 015
MAGAZINE
WHY TRI
BENEFITS OF CROSS-TRAINING
CHALLENGING
THE WHOLE BODY OF CHRIST
NEW
YEAR GOALS
Odds DEFEATING THE
FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT
A WORD FROM MITCHELL
WELCOME TO
connect connect is just as simple as the name states. It’s our way to connect with you.”
SO WHAT IS CONNECT? I’m glad you asked! Here at Run for God we are
always looking for ways to better serve our ever-growing family. We’re always taking note of your suggestions and trying to figure out how we can make those suggestions come to life. Devotions, for example, was a product of you all wanting something more, something that runners of all levels could have in their spiritual arsenal. We dug deep, put our heads together, and out came the latest in our line of endurance studies. Many of you have indicated that our newsletter needed some work. We couldn’t agree more! Many times our newsletter was a last minute thought. It was very sporadic, and often times there just wasn’t much meat. Well, once again our team sat down, put our heads together, and we are happy to bring you the latest new from Run for God, connect.
connect will be a quarterly publication that will plug you right into what’s going on in and around the Run for God community. Each quarter we’ll highlight students and instructors as well as telling you their awesome stories. We’ll give you updates on what’s on our calendar along with running tips and answers to frequently asked questions. Behind the Scenes will give you an inside look at what goes on each day at the Run for God shop. We’ll even be hearing from Dean Thompson about his favorite running topics. Don’t know Dean? Be sure and check out Devotions! The bottom line is that connect is just as simple as the name states. It’s our way to connect with you. We hope that you’ll enjoy reading this publication as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together! Thanks again for your continued support of Run for God.
Mitchell 2
WINTER 2015
RUNFORGOD.COM
features
DE PA RT MENTS
8 S tudent Spotlight: DEFEATING THE ODDS
6. Why Triathlon?
16 I nstructor Spotlight: CHALLENGING THE WHOLE BODY OF CHRIST
16. Sticky Notes 17. Gear & Gadgets 25. Behind the Scenes
20 D eans Thoughts: NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS
10 RUNFORGOD.COM
6 22
18 WINTER 2015
3
FINDING GOD IN A RUNNERS SPACE
Pick up your copy of Run for God DEVOTIONS
TODAY! RUNFORGOD.COM
Copyright © 2014 Run for God, LLC. All rights reserved.
CONT R I B UTO R S
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any other form or by any means without the prior written permission of the Run for God, LLC. Printed in the United States of America Dalton, Georgia If you require medical, fitness, or nutritional advice, you must contact your own health care professional. You should seek the advice of a doctor before starting any exercise routine.
Tanna Friday is an instructor,
Dean Thompson serves as
Andy Sweet is a personal
runner, sweet tea drinker,
the National Race Director
trainer and owner of Hub
and writer with 4 children
for the Run for God Race
Endurance located on the
This publication may contain information relating to various medical conditions and their treatment and an exercise/nutrition protocol. Such information is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice of a physician or health care professional. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or injury.
who currently lives in
Series as well as serving as
North Shore of Downtown
Georgia. Although she
an instructor at his home
Chattanooga, Tennessee.
struggles to find ways to
church in Cohutta, GA. Dean
post to all social media
loves to run, loves life, loves
platforms while running,
his wife Debbie and loves
(need an app for that!) she
Christ. Look for all of Deans
enjoys tapping into the
stories in Run for God’s
national running community
Devotions.
To make informed health care decisions, you should always consult your physician for your personal medical needs. Neither Run for God nor its agents, affiliates, partners, or licensors are providing these materials to you for the purpose of giving you medical advice.
for God and God’s grace.
For any questions about your health and wellbeing, please consult your physician.
4
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to share her passion for Run
LETS CONNECT RUNFORGOD.COM
RUNFORGOD.COM
WINTER 2015
5
WHY
Triathlon? BY ANDY SWEET
THE DIVERSITY OF TRIATHLON IS MAKING IT ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING SPORTS IN AMERICA.
T
REIS ATHLOS, OR THREE CONTESTS, is the
faster times and podium finishes by
root of the name ‘triathlon’. It’s a name that
adjusting my training and equipment
is fitting, as triathlon is actually a sport of three sports: Swimming, Cycling, and Running. And it
each summer. Balancing the disciplines and constantly trying to learn more.
is growing in popularity at an incredible rate worldwide!
And that’s how my love for the sport
Despite a history that can date back into the early 1900’s,
of triathlon blossomed. The unique
the first modern day triathlon was held in San Diego in
balance required to train for three
1974 and had only 46 participants. Now, there are triathlon
sports, rather than just one, was
races all over the world, and hundreds of thousands of
something truly amazing. If my desire
athletes’ toe the line to participate. Why? What is the
to go to swim practice was waning,
draw of this sport that could cause that rate of growth
I could go jogging instead. If the hot
in only 40 years’ time? Perhaps I can shed some light to
sun and dense air of the Midwestern
answer this enigma.
summer was too overpowering to run, I could head out on my bike and let the
I participated in my first triathlon at the age of 10 back in
breeze cool me down. I was always
1992. My older brother heard of a nearby race at the end of
excited. I always had something to
summer that was going to include swimming, biking, and
work on. And as athletes, that desire
running. He wanted to try it. Always looking up to him,
to work hard and improve is what
and never to be outdone, I was in as well! I was already
we crave. The knowledge that if we
a competitive swimmer at that age, but never rode a bike
put in the time and effort, we will
or ran besides playing in the yard. However, there was no
accomplish things that formerly seemed
fear, as this was a new endeavor without preconceived
impossible. That is triathlon.
notions of difficulty or possible defeat. Come race day, we gathered up our department store bikes, funny shaped
Current day triathlons all consist of the
bike helmets, our least destroyed street shoes, and had
same three disciplines (swim, bike, run).
our Mom drive us to the race. I remember very little of that
But not all triathlons are identical, as the
race…other than the exhilaration of seeing the finish line
distances can vary greatly. There are
after cresting the final hill of the run course. Everything
now four fairly standardized triathlon
else was a blur of hard physical exertion.
distances: Sprint, Olympic, Half-Ironman, and Full-Ironman. A Sprint triathlon,
I went back to that same race year after year, seeking
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despite its somewhat misleading name, RUNFORGOD.COM
is still an endurance event and usually
THE PLATEAU ATHLETE: This is an
formats, categories) it does not produce
consists of a 500 yard swim, a 12 mile
athlete that has spent countless years in
the same burn-out emotions.
bike, and 3.1 mile run. However, when
their respective sport and has reached
compared to a Full-Ironman distance
an ability level that has halted continued
THE LIFE CHANGER: These athletes
triathlon (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike,
progress/improvement. They are hard
have decided to change their lifestyles
and 26.2 mile run) a sprint does seem
workers and have usually tried numerous
dramatically. Sometimes they come
rather short. While most athletes
different styles/programs/regimens to get
from an unhealthy sedentary lifestyles.
enter the sport by competing in Sprint
past their sporting plateau. These athletes
Sometimes from sickness or disability.
triathlons, even the Full-Ironman distance
often turn to triathlon to try something
The backgrounds are endless, but
races are experiencing huge growth in
new that still utilizes their talent and love
the decision is the same: they want
participation each year. So, where are they
for their original sport discipline. Triathlon
to change! Many of these athletes
coming from? Who would get into such a
provides them with some welcomed
turn to triathlon because it offers a
unique sport?
diversity and gives them the opportunity to real, tangible goal to solidify their transformation: a finish line to an see improvement once again.
It is not surprising to hear most
event that seems so impossible.
triathletes come from a single-sport
THE COLLEGIATE ATHLETE: These
background (swimming, biking,
are your ex-collegiate athletes, often
THE CHALLENGER: These folks
running, or ?), but some are brand
fresh out-of-school but not always.
are driven by a desire for adventure.
new to athletics entirely. In my years
College athletics requires a lot of
They are always looking for the next
of working with thousands of these
focus, drive, and time… a lot of time.
challenge. They have tried or will try
athletes and hearing their stories, I have
All of that time and determination
everything. These athletes seek out
identified several common themes that
generally leaves an athlete ‘burned
triathlon because it is such a huge
exist in people’s journeys to becoming
out’ on the sport for a period of time
accomplishment: from the shortest
triathletes. I have even given names
after their collegiate career is over.
sprint to full Ironman distance.
to each style of triathlete convert: The
Triathlon provides them an avenue to
Plateau Athlete, The Collegiate Athlete,
return to their sport without the same
The Life Changer, and The Challenger.
mandates on time/focus and because the races are so different (distances,
So, there is no right or wrong ‘type’ of person to participate in triathlon; it accepts all, and more importantly embraces all types of people. It is a sport that focuses on community and comradery over competition. Everyone’s accomplishments are their own personal triumphs, and those are celebrated by all! So, why is triathlon the fastest growing sport in America? This is why: Accomplishment, Diversity, Community, and Challenge.
Visit hubendurance.com for all of your triathlon needs.
Andy Sweet, owner of Hub Endurance can assist you in choosing all of the right gear for your multi-sport and crosstraining needs. RUNFORGOD.COM
WINTER 2015
7
Run for God has you covered on those cold, winter runs with our DryBlend Hoodie. Shop RUNFORGOD.COM
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RUN FOR GOD WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SPONSORS.
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WINTER 2015
9
Student Spotlight
10
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RUNFORGOD.COM
DEFEATING THE
BY TANNA FRIDAY
Have you ever felt as if the odds were against you?
If
you met Crystal Tucker
battalion run with my attending
she would list them one
commander, I stumbled, and took a
by one down to the first
hard fall into a hole fracturing both
battle cry. But for the first
of my legs,” says Tucker. Her injuries
time in her life, God has
were much more serious than she
given her the desire to
imagined and resulted in fractures in
share her story and share
both tibias, femurs as well as
how God removed her comforts and false securities from her life to remind her that He is the one and only source of strength.
her hips. Throughout her recovery, Tucker went through vigorous rehabilitation efforts while relying on ambulatory
OUT OF SERVICE
devices. She was evaluated by
In 2006, Crystal served as a 68W
military physicians who assessed
(Combat Medic) with the U.S. Army with
her with a permanent profile of a
the 32nd Medical Battalion stationed at
non-deployable status, which led to
Fort Sam Houston, Texas. In 2007, she
her honorable medical discharge.
was engaging in Afghanistan combat
“Since I had what was called a
readiness training when something
‘Permanent Profile’, I was considered
unexpected occurred. “During a 5-mile
non-deployable and of no use to the
RUNFORGOD.COM
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11
Student Spotlight
military,” she said sadly, “I could not
“the blood flow – instead of making
run, jump, march correctly, or lift over
a complete circulation in my body, it
a certain poundage.”
was trickling back down.” Tucker’s
Upon receiving her medical discharge from the U.S. Army in April of 2007, she returned home to Georgia. “After returning home from the military, I
“Since I had what was called a ‘Permanent Profile’, I was considered nondeployable and of no use to the military.”
rested for quite a bit, settled back into civilian life, completed my VA paperwork and got back into school,” Tucker said. And for the first time in several months, Tucker and her husband, Chris, received some good
system’ and required her to have two separate surgeries, one on each leg, to correct and burn out the bad veins and reroute the blood flow. After the procedure and during a follow-up with her physician, he told her she would never run again. Tucker did not lose hope. HOPE RENEWED
– a new addition to the family. What
God’s Word speaks a promise of
Tucker did not expect was for her
renewed strength.
injuries to return.
“Those who hope in the LORD will
Throughout Tucker’s pregnancy, her
renew their strength. They will soar
symptoms became worse. “My legs
on wings like eagles; they will RUN
would fall asleep to where I could
and not be weary, they will walk and
barely walk. I had trouble sleeping
not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
due to the tingling in my legs. I developed arthritis and it became participate in physical activity,” said Tucker. “After my son was born in February of 2008, I tried to exercise to help with the circulation of my legs, but decided to seek a vein specialist to correct my problems.” FURTHER COMPLICATIONS After experiencing symptoms of numbness, pain and tingling, Tucker was evaluated by her doctor and was diagnosed with Venus Reflux Disease. “Basically,” Tucker said,
WINTER 2015
as a ‘leaky roof in her circulatory
news and had a reason to celebrate
painful to leave my bedside and even
12
physician best described her condition
If you have ever been in a place where you have been weary and tired, you have more than likely yearned for renewed strength. Being weary and tired can lead to discouragement and perhaps the desire to give up. It is in this place that we find it difficult to face life, to make decisions or to even take another step. Tucker did not know what she would go on to accomplish after hearing that she could never run, not just from one, but from two different doctors-- but through the Run for God program,
RUNFORGOD.COM
Tucker’s physician best described her condition as a “leaky roof” in her circulatory system. God was able to show her that with Him all things are POSSIBLE. Tucker, now a Run for God graduate, found hope and strength during a time when others lost all hope and faith in her. “When I think of Run for God, I can’t help, but smile,” says Tucker. “I am so passionate about this group and ministry and I will never think of running the same way again. With all of the odds that were stacked up against me, God lead me right where I needed to be,” she continues. “I was looking through the newsfeed
preparing experienced runners to run
As the program continued, Tucker
a 10k or half marathon.
thought of all the odds stacked up
on Facebook when I came across a
“Once I entered the classroom, I was
group that involved running and a
terrified about the decision I had
Bible study,” she said. “At the time,
made,” she said, “I mean, I have only
I wanted to try out a Bible study, so
completed a 5k since my injuries.”
I thought I would give it a try.” The
The class met three days a week for
class was a Run for God 10k/Half
the training: Tuesday evening after
Marathon Challenge that began in
the Bible study, Thursday evening,
January 2014 after the Run for God’s
and Saturday morning. “The weather
10k/Half Marathon program release
could not have been more cold,” said
in December 2013. This challenge is
Tucker, “I was bundling up as if I was
a 12-week Bible study that parallels
heading to Alaska.”
faith and endurance all while RUNFORGOD.COM
against her, including not being able to run again. They began to cloud her mind until a 12-mile training run. “I was listening to K-LOVE for motivation to push through the pain of a long 12-miles when a verse from a song said, ‘you are the peace in my troubled sea,’” said Tucker. “It was in that moment, while I had been wanting to quit and wallowing in my pain that God was trying to tell me something. Not only had I come to
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13
Student Spotlight
VISIT
RUNFORGOD.COM
to get registered for your race
TODAY!
realize that God had completely restored my health, transformed my life and gave me hope and the renewed strength I needed to run again, but also He wanted me to use it for His glory – I am to run to serve His purpose,” she exclaimed! “I can still remember our graduation day just like it was yesterday,” Tucker says, “when I ran down the hill of Praters Mill Road, emotional, exhausted, turning the corner to run the last few kilometers. Then hearing the familiar sounds of my Run for God friends cheering and shouting, ‘GO, GO, GO! YOU CAN DO IT!!!’ and God whispering to me, ‘Run towards me.’ ‘Remember your purpose.’ ‘All finished.’ ‘You finished.’ “I am impacted greatly by this journey. It is still a journey. Despite the odds that were against me that should have demolished my future, instead lead me to not stand defeated. With God by my side, He helped me stand up to defeat the odds and to serve a purpose larger than myself,” said Tucker. So when the odds are not in your favor, don’t think that God has abandoned you. Stand your ground and keep your eyes fixed on the LORD. With everything else stripped away, you will be amazed at what your God can achieve.
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WINTER 2015
15
S
ST ICK Y NOT ES
Q: Should I Stretch Before or After I Run?
“I have heard that I should stretch before I run and I also heard that it may cause injuries. When is the best time to stretch – before or after running?” Pattie, GA
A:
It is important to always warm up
before you begin to run. It is a bad idea to stretch cold muscles because it can lead to pulling and injury. It is recommended to warm up for about 5-10 minutes using light aerobic exercises, such as a brisk walk or a slow jog, to loosen and warm up muscles for your run.
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WINTER 2014
RUNFORGOD.COM
G
W HY P E R FO R MA N C E
Wear ?
GEAR & GA D G E TS
Let’s face it, the fabrics for exercise clothing have come a long way since the days of sweatshirts and leg warmers. Today, there are many fabrics to choose from, but choosing the right fabrics are important for any running experience.
Popular fabrics, such as cotton can absorb moisture, and become heavy and uncomfortable once they are drenched in sweat. Now there are more improved synthetic fabrics that keep moisture away from the body.
HOW DOES THIS WORK YOU ASK? Moisture travels on
AIR
the surface of the fiber and is pulled away from the skin, H2O
rather than absorbing into the fibers. The fibers push
SKIN
DRIRELEASE FABRIC H2O
the liquid towards the outside of the fabric where it can H2O
evaporate once it has made contact with air.
H2O
H2O
The “Run for God Long-Sleeve Performance Tee,” made by Sport Science Technology®, feels amazing and works even better. This synthetic fiber is polyester, but with a look and feel of cotton. It actually performs like a traditional polyester that prevents chafing and abrasion that other fabrics can cause. With the inclusion of the freshguard® finish, the smelly workout shirt has become a thing of the past.
WINTER 2014
17
Instructor Spotlight
With the help of Run for God, the health of our congregation is changing – the emphasis is to take care of our lives both physically and spiritually.” 18
WINTER 2015
RUNFORGOD.COM
C HA L L E NG I NG T H E
Body of { WHOLE }
Christ to grow faithfully, physically and spiritually
BY TANNA FRIDAY
against each other. It is a race that requires endurance and preparation, and has been individually designed for each of them (Hebrews 12:1). But make no mistake; there is a prize at stake. And these who are in attendance this morning at VUMC are in it to win it.
IT’S
Stephen Streett with the members of Run for God, Varnell UMC.
As more churches look to expand their outreach, and help their communities and congregation lead healthier lives,
SATURDAY
church members are dressed in their
Run for God’s Connect is spotlighting
MORNING
Run for God shirts and ready to train.
a Run for God instructor and a unique
at Varnell United Methodist Church
They are training for a race. This isn’t
individual, Reverend Stephen Streett,
(VUMC) in Varnell, Georgia, and 60
just an ordinary race or a competition
who is leading his congregation to
RUNFORGOD.COM
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19
Instructor Spotlight
When a pastor is behind a program in a church, such as Run for God, and is truly passionate about it’s purpose, it can change the whole dynamics of the program. Streett recognized through his own experience that others in his congregation were struggling with living unhealthy lifestyles. “After not being able to run for nearly 7 years, I felt well enough to start again,” says Streett. It was a young man named, Michael Hicks, who inspired me to give it a new health goals – to become healthier
try, to start running again and get involved in this program.
mentally, physically and spiritually.
He had never run before joining Run for God, and now has just completed his first Ironman,” Streett shares. Hicks, along
The Run for God 5k program, 12-week
with many others in the surrounding Dalton area trained with
training plan aimed at running a 5K
Mitchell Hollis to compete in the 2014 Ironman Chattanooga.
while maintaining a Christian focus, began at VUMC in the summer of 2010.
After recovering from back surgery in 2007, Streett says he
Their leader, Matt Gallegly, established
gained weight and wanted to get back into shape. “I did not
a well-organized and fruitful ministry.
have any direction in my running until I found the Run for
But it wasn’t long before the program
God program. Run for God changed everything in my life
started growing too much for Gallegly
and gave me a new perspective on running and endurance,”
to lead alone. As the program continued
he continues. There has been a change not only illustrated
to expand, so did their efforts. Gallegly
in the life of Reverend Streett, but also in the lives of the
used his resources to train other
congregation at VUMC.
individuals to lead the classes and
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WINTER 2015
group trainings, including Streett, who
When a pastor is behind a program in a church, such as
began leading the program in 2012.
Run for God, and is truly passionate about it’s purpose, it
RUNFORGOD.COM
can change the whole dynamics of the program. Streett
ministry, VUMC has grown to offer many
recognized through his own experience that others in
more services including the Run for God
his congregation were struggling with living unhealthy
program, circuit training, extreme sports,
lifestyles. He realized that as a spiritual leader he had a unique
and a walking ministry for every fitness
opportunity to help others through this ministry. Physical
level in the congregation. “The message
health is important in the life of a believer. Streett realized that
we want to convey to our church and the
educating people on the necessity physical health was a great
community is that you don’t have to join a
place to start. The Run for God program opened many doors
gym, just come to Run for God,”
to see how to apply it in his life as well as in the lives of others.
says Streett.
“We as Christians should set the example on how to care for both our bodies and our spiritual health. The Scriptures teach
“The Run for God program is part of
us that our bodies are the temple of God. Run for God has
our faith journey,” says Streett. “The
reminded us all of the importance in caring for our bodies, so
spiritual aspect of the class is what
we can be better witnesses for Christ mentally, physically and
has made people return. If it were just
spiritually,” says Streett.
physical training, no one would come back,” Street continues. “When our
“With the help of Run for God, the health of our congregation
students are asked what the greatest
is changing – the emphasis is to take care of our lives both
benefit of the Run for God program
physically and spiritually. We cannot do God’s work if we are
is in their lives, the answer is always
tired, exhausted and feel bad about ourselves,” says Streett.
the same – the support and love of its
VISIT RUNFORGOD.COM
to start your 5k Challenge
TODAY!
members,” Streett says. We believe Streett’s team has introduced healthy alternatives in every
that it is what matters the most.
aspect of the congregation including what’s for dinner. “There has been a drastic change in the eating habits in our congregation,” says Streett. “Our church dinner menus have changed. We now offer a salad bar, steamed vegetables, baked items, and have replaced desserts with fruits,” he continues. Not only has Run for God brought a change in the way the congregation serves meals within the church, but has influenced its members to become involved and share their professional expertise with the program to help members live healthy lifestyles. For example, VUMC has a nutritionist and a physician who offer medical education to the program participants. After having a huge success with this
RUNFORGOD.COM
Stephen Streett and Michael Hicks discuss the benefits of running and the community they experience as a result of participating in the Run for God 5k Challenge program.
WINTER 2015
21
Deans Thoughts
NEW
YEAR GOALS BY DEAN THOMPSON
“IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING, ANY ROAD WILL TAKE YOU THERE.”
I’VE
22
HEARD THAT SAYING
PERSONALIZE SUCCESS
obvious goals, but you can be as
a hundred times and
How do we go about formulating
creative as your mind will permit.
it never applies more
the targets at which we are going
For example, maybe you want to
directly than it does when we think about goal-
to take aim? The best way to do
lose weight and you want to use
setting. Setting realistic, exciting goals will help
this is to think about what success
running to help get you to your
to motivate you, especially on those days when
looks like for you. It may be that
target weight. Maybe you want
finding the enthusiasm to get out the door feels
you are new to running and you
to run at least four days a week,
almost daunting.
would consider it a success if you
or even every day. There are
could finish a 5K without walking.
people who have run at least one
When we think about a new year, the topic of New
That would be a great goal. It
marathon in every state. More
Year’s resolutions will surface sooner rather than
has everything a goal needs to
than likely, it began with a goal to
later. Those resolutions can be many things, but
have: 1) It is specific and easy to
do just that. Anyway, you get the
most are really goals. Setting goals for yourself is a
understand. In other words, you
idea, the possibilities are endless.
critically important tool for motivation. As a matter
will know it when you see it! 2) It
of fact, for many runners, having a meaningful
is measurable, meaning that there
The best way to undertake
goal is all they need to keep themselves motivated.
is a definite way to know when
creating goals is to begin long
Whether we want to admit it or not, we all have
you have achieved your goal. 3) It is
term and work backwards. In
ambitions to accomplish things. Even if you have
reachable. You want to make sure
other words, think about what
no goals you have chosen to set a goal to avoid
you set goals that are achievable. It
you want to ultimately achieve
making goals! There’s an old song by the rock
is discouraging to set a goal that is
and set that as a major goal.
group Rush that states “If you choose not to
unrealistic. Another goal might be
Then you can set intermediate
decide, you still have made a choice.” That’s how
to run a 10K in under 40 minutes.
goals along the way that will
it is with goals. The trick is to understand how
Again, it is specific, measurable
help you get there. I think about a
to use goals to make you better or to achieve an
and, depending upon who you are,
staircase. It would be impossible
objective that is important to you.
it is achievable. Those are more
to leap from one floor of a building
WINTER 2015
RUNFORGOD.COM
to another in one jump, but with a
accomplish all three through
choice. I have seen many people who seem
social media. The idea, of course,
more interested in setting a goal that will
is to think about your goals
impress others, rather than reaching for
regularly. Planning is important.
what makes them happy. Be content with
As the saying goes, “When you
what you wish to achieve, otherwise you
fail to plan, you are planning
are setting yourself up
to fail.”
for disappointment.
closer to being able to see over the
Have you ever gone out for a run
top step. Once you get a glimpse
ANTICIPATE REWARDS
in an unfamiliar city and gotten
of what is on the next floor, it is
After you write down your goals and before you
lost? Keep in mind that there
easier to pick up the momentum
begin to execute your plan, decide how you will
will be times when you get off
through increased motivation. The
revel in your success when you reach your goal.
course. Sometimes you will find
intermediate goals are typically
Use that celebration as fuel to feed your fire
it difficult to check off every
whittled down into a to-do list.
to keep the engine burning hot as you motor
item on the to-do list. When it
Again, as you check off items on the
toward your goal. Once you celebrate, you can
happens, get back on course.
to-do list, you build excitement for
begin the process again!
Don’t fret over what you missed,
the ultimate goal.
and don’t try to make up for it
All of these steps to realizing your goals
staircase, making that trip is easy. Goals are like a staircase; you have a major goal of reaching the next floor, but each step is a smaller goal that will ultimately lead you to that next floor. Those intermediate goals, or each step, help to get you
lest you find yourself injured
are helpful because they create reason and
ACCOUNTABILITY AND
from overwork. Just pick back up
intention. When we are intentional about
FORWARD PROGRESS
on your plan and move forward
getting something done, we are usually
Next, you’ll need to ensure that
again. How many times have
successful. It works the same way in our
you are held accountable for your
you seen others have a bad day
Christian walk. We don’t have to look through
goals. There are three effective
while on a diet and just give up
much of our Bible to find a reason for creating
steps to making sure you and
because they strayed from their
goals for our study and prayer life. Romans 5:8
your friends are vigilant in
plan? Don’t be that person. If
says, “But God demonstrates His own love
guaranteeing you leverage those
you miss a run, it is not going
toward us, in that while we were yet sinners,
goals for the greatest motivation
to mean the difference between
Christ died for us.” That is all the motivation
possible: 1) Write your goals
success and failure. If you miss
we need, but we have to add intention to that
down and visit them often. 2) Tell
twelve runs, it will make a
motivation. Setting goals using the same
someone else about your goals,
difference. Just try to minimize
method you do for your running goals is just as
and make sure it is someone who
the disappointments. And, most
effective in everything else you do, including
is going to ask you about them
importantly, remember that
your spiritual life. Maybe you want to read at
regularly. 3) Post your goals where
it is about the execution, not
least two chapters of the Bible every day. Make
you and others will see them.
the plan. Don’t become so tied
it a goal. Maybe you want to set aside thirty
Place them somewhere you can’t
to the specifics of a plan that it
minutes every morning to pray. Make it a goal.
miss, like next to a mirror, the
paralyzes you when life happens
Again, you can get creative and think of much
refrigerator door, or at a desk.
and you have to make choices.
better and more specific ideas. Just make sure
There are many possibilities.
it’s specific, measurable and reachable. Don’t
In this day of social media, it is
You own these goals and how
forget to write them down and find a good
easy to post things where many
you go about achieving them
partner who will hold you accountable.
can see them. Actually, you can
is your business and your
RUNFORGOD.COM
WINTER 2015
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THIS RACE SEASON WILL BE THE BEST YET! If you’ve never made the trip to be a part of a Run for God Hosted Event, then you don’t know what you’re missing. Our races may be somewhat small in numbers, but they’ll compete with even the largest races in the world when it comes to organization, atmosphere, race schwag, and encouragement. Join the Run for God - Race Series in 2015!
HOSTED RACE SCHEDULE
WHEN: 4.11.15 WHERE: PRATERS MILL, DALTON GEORGIA
WHEN: 6.20.15 WHERE: CAMP JORDAN, EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE
WHEN: 7.25.15 WHERE: DALTON PARKS AND RECREATION, DALTON, GEORGIA
WHEN: 8.14.15 WHERE: CAMP JORDAN, EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE
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WINTER 2015
RUNFORGOD.COM
BEHIND THE SCENES
PACK PRAY LOVE FOR THE LORD NOT ONLY has plans for us to reach
ministry,” says Coker. “For me, it is a way that I can
across boundary lines to touch lives for Him, but He
minister to others behind the scenes through the Run
also, commands us in Acts 13:47, “that [we] should be
for God program.”
for salvation to the ends of the earth.” Some may call this the Great Commission or the Jabez Appointment, but the blessings come when we respond to His call and when we invite God to act. We don’t realize His purpose until we can begin to ask this simple question: “How may I help you?”
Run for God’s Customer Service, located in Dalton, Georgia, serves as the shipping facility for all Run for God products and merchandise, including the 5k Challenge study, which began in 2010. Coker believes that she contributes to the ministry, in part, because she feels connected to people when she packs and
Gaye Coker has been dedicated to students in Georgia’s
prays over the merchandise. “God tells us to bring
Whitfield County School District for 31 years. When
salvation into the ends of the earth. Even though I
she decided to retire in 2012 as Family and Consumer
am not physically out there, I feel like I am part of it,”
Sciences teacher for both middle and high school
Coker adds.
students, posts she’s held since 1981, she knew with a happy heart, it was time to move forward.
Coker shares that her job is a very satisfying and emotional experience. “ I say a lot of prayers when I
“I have always loved teaching. I had a wonderful
am packaging and shipping,” says Coker, “because
year and I knew that it was time to move on and help
these books and Instructor kits may be a blessing to
Mitchell in the Run for God ministry,” says Coker.
someone and possibly others through this ministry.”
In May of 2012, Coker retired and joined the staff of
As Gaye continues to share how the Run for God
Run for God in Customer Service. Since then, Coker’s
program has blessed her and her marriage, her voice
position with Run for God has served the body of
begins to crack. “I want every person who receives
Christ nationwide and her role in Customer Service has
a copy of the Run for God Challenge to have the
helped equip, prepare and serve several generations
same experience that I experienced with Run for
of this ministry’s students and instructors. “Working
God and so much more,” she continues. “Nothing
in Customer Service at Run for God has become my
but blessings.”
RUNFORGOD.COM
WINTER 2015
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Why DEVOTIONS? FINDING GOD IN A RUNNERS SPACE
Devotions came together as a result of the outpouring of letters and e-mails that come into the Run for God camp each week. These stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things and Run for God’s role in their lives prompted us to find a way to preserve these memories. From a desire to both preserve and share these stories, Devotions was born. This Bible study is not your ordinary study. No, it’s a study that is made up of stories from people just like you and me, real stories from real people. These thoughts and experiences are brought to you from pastors, deacons, Sunday school teachers, new Christians, old Christians, and even Christians who had lost their way for a time. So if you’re looking for a study that is authored by a renowned theologian, this isn’t it. But if you’re looking for a study that shows what God can do through someone just like you and me, then you’ve definitely come to the right place. Whether you’re a new runner, a seasoned runner, a fast runner, or a slow runner, this study is for you. Each week we’ll take you through inspiring stories, scripture, running tips and tricks, as well as challenge you with thought provoking questions to ponder. There are also training plans in the back that will cover any distance you desire. Use this for your personal devotion or grab a group of friends and start a small group, either way you can’t go wrong. Enjoy!
52-Week Study • 464 Page Hardback
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WINTER 2015
RUNFORGOD.COM
2015 Virtual Races
SUMMER
is when race weekend arrives, instead of traveling across the country, runners would mark out a 5K in their own community. It
What is a
Virtual Race? THIS IS YOUR RACE, ON YOUR OWN TIME IN YOUR OWN TOWN.
could be on a trail, on the road, or even on a treadmill, it really doesn’t matter. Then, they simply show up, run their 5K, record their own time, post their pictures, and we mail out Goodie Bags complete with race shirt and medal the next week. It’s very simple and completely AWESOME! WHY A VIRTUAL 5K? For several years now we have been getting requests from individuals and groups from all over the globe to host a Run for God race in their community. While this is flattering and very tempting, it’s just not possible. This past year we tested the waters with
THE CONCEPT OF A “Virtual Race” is that you can
one Virtual Race, and the response was
participate in a running event from anywhere in the world.
overwhelming. It sold out quicker than any
Let’s use the 2014 Run for God – Pinky 5K as an example.
race we’d ever hosted. So, this is a great
Last year runners signed up from all 50 states and many
way for you or your group of friends to get
other countries. They registered and trained just as if
together and run your own race, no matter
they were going to attend a physical race. The difference
where you may live.
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WINTER 2015
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OUR MOTIVATION COLLECTION IS A FUN WAY TO MOTIVATE YOUR RUN! GET YOURS ONLINE AT RUNFORGOD.COM.