Beginner 5K Training Programs
Spring 2026 5K Training Program
Run Hub is co-hosting this 12-week program with the YMCA. Members and non-members are invited to sign up. Practice starts Saturday, April 18. If you want more information or would like to chat with the coaches before the program begins, join us on March 29 for the Meet the Coaches event.
Description
Our 12-week training program is geared towards beginning runners and those returning to running. Certified coaches will provide guidance and suggestions for weekly training as we build toward running the Butte to Butte 5K. Participants can expect to start with walking and jogging and build toward continuously running for at least 5 km.
The first practice is on Saturday, April 18, at 8:30 AM. We will meet weekly on Saturdays to run and will have an occasional guest speaker. Saturday time commitment will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30-9:45 a.m. but may end closer to 10:00 a.m. on days that include guest speakers. The YMCA will be the primary practice location, but local parks and trails will also be utilized. Participants will receive a free t-shirt, complimentary socks, and a discount at Run Hub for the duration of the training program.
Returning runners will have the option to do an intermediate workout on Saturdays.
Cost is $89 for YMCA members and $99 for non-members. The registration cost does not include the Butte to Butte registration fee.
About the coaches:
Pamela Bilyeu
Pamela is a staunch believer in the transformative power running can have on one’s life. As a Eugene native, she grew up competing at local cross country events, high school track meets, often while playing year-round basketball. She spent several seasons as head coach for the 8th grade boys basketball team at Roosevelt Middle School. Pamela is a Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) certified coach. She is enthusiastic about coaching the beginner 5k program and is excited to meet all the runners, hear their goals, and provide encouragement as they start their running journey!
Jadzia Engle
Jadzia has been a part of the Run Hub community since she was a runner in high school. She worked at the store for two years before completing her undergraduate degree at OSU, where she was involved in the university’s run club. Jadzia is passionate about finding fun in every run. Since becoming a RRCA-certified coach, Jadzia is most eager to help you begin or resume running injury free. Jadzia will strive to learn what motivates you, share insights and reflections, and walk-run alongside you wherever you’re at in your journey.
Tara Garkow
Tara was born and raised in Eugene, but her running journey began spring 2025 when she joined Run Hub’s 5K training program in search of new challenges and community. She loved the experience so much that she completed the program a second time—and recently placed first in her age group at a local 5K. Tara believes deeply in the power of community to create meaningful change and is excited to assist Coach Pamela in upcoming 5K training programs.
Photos from previous programs
