Q: Do we train in rain and snow?

A: Yes, unless the weather creates an unsafe enviornment we will train in all weather conditions. You never can be certain of the weather conditions raceday so it is better to have trained in the rain than for the first time race morning.

Q: Are walks ever cancelled because of weather?

A: Yes, if the weather is severe check the TNT HOTLINE at 908-956-6623. A message indicating the walk is cancelled or relocated to a different location is usually posted by 6:00 AM the day of the training. Also check your email prior to leaving for the training location.

Q: What clothes should I wear for training?

A: First and foremost......NO COTTON. You should train in synthetic materials including your socks. Cotton will retain moisture and can lead to chafing and you will feel chilled because of the moisture. Look for clothes which indicate that they are moisture wicking....names like Dri-Fit, Coolmax. You will avoid chafing and also will stay warmer if your sweat is pulled away from your body while running.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do I need?

A: Obviously one pair of running shoes that you have been properly fit for at a running store is a good start. Ideally, if you can afford a second pair so you can rotate them on alternate days and allow the cushioning to bounce back completely would be better.

Q: What should I bring to drink?

A: Unless you require something special (allergies- Accelerade has dairy products/religious- Powerade is not kosher). At the group trainings, the coaches will have water and/or sports drink available at the start/finish area. The coaches ask that you carry water/sports drink with you. You may also want to carry some cash on longer walks so we can stop to purchase more liquids in route. You may also want to look into purchasing a fanny pack that has a bottle holder so you don’t have to carry the bottle in your hand. Fanny packs can be purchased at running/sports stores or online.

Q: Are there directions to the training locations?

A: Yes, go to www.tnt-nnj.org/walk and click on Training Locations

Q: What is layering?

A: Layering is wearing multiple layers of clothing usually on the upper body on cooler days or on an early run start. You can peel off the layers as you warm up and tie them around your waist. Try and make the layers light and looser fitting which allows air to circulate between the layers and keep you warm. Also be careful not to overdress for a training. Being a little cool at the start is not a bad thing.

Q: What should I eat during the training?

A: This really comes down to personal preference. There are several options to fuel on the go:

Energy gels by various companies such as PowerGel, Clifshots, GU, Carboom and HammerGel. these come in a variety of flavors. Energy blocks, similar to the gels but in a jello like cube Sportbeans - like jelly beans but specifically designed for athletic use. All of these products should be experimented with during your shorter weekday training or towards the end of the training walk. Try taking one about a mile from home (stash a water bottle if you don't carry one) with water, if it does not agree with your stomach you are not far from home. You don't need to worry about these until we are walking for an hour or more. For more details ask the coaches.

Q: What should I do if I am going on vacation or an extended business trip?

A: That is one of the best things about walking- you can do it just about anywhere and all you need is your shoes, socks, shirt and shorts. It can be very exciting to explore a new city during a run. Contact your coach if you are going to be away and you can work out what you should be doing while you are away.

Q: I am not a fast walker, should I still come to the group trainings?

A: Absolutely, the coaches move around the training route and try and make sure that no one gets lost or is left alone during the walk. Frequently you will find a walker who walks about your pace and you will have a new training buddy. It is sometimes easier to move faster when you are with a group.

Q: What if I have never completed a race before?

A: The coaches recommend that you enter at least one race prior to your event to practice walking with a larger group. We post a listing of upcoming races. We do not endorse a particular race but strongly encourage you to enter at least one race.

Q: Can I bring my friends and family to the runs?

A: Yes, but they must sign a waiver of liability. However, we prefer that if you do so it is not a frequent event so that you can focus on training with your teammates.