Walk and Run club offers running community for all skill levels

Ever thought about going for a run, but needed some extra motivation to get out the door? Many members of Walk and Run, Luther’s student-led running club, cite that as their reason for joining the group which meets every week for a jaunt around Decorah.

“I didn’t know anyone in the group when I first began,” Allie Devney (‘11) said. “But I wanted something to keep me motivated.”

According to Co-leader Kristen Lindholm (‘10), the club began two years ago as a club for people who wanted to run for fun.

Along with Lindholm, the group has been led this year by runner Meg McCormick (‘10).

As a non-competitive group, WAR is open to any student wishing to put in miles.

“A lot of people ran or did sports in high school, but didn’t want to at the college level,” Lindholm said.

Club member Kali Sharot (‘12), a three-sport athlete in high school, agreed that WAR helps her stay active.

“It’s enjoyable to run with other people when you both enjoy what you’re doing,” Sharot said. “It’s almost like a team atmosphere.”

The group typically runs three to five miles, but Lindholm says it’s up to each person how far they want to run.

“It’s not about distance or time,” Lindholm said. “Participants are more than welcome to walk and are encouraged to do whatever they need to do. It’s about seeing what your body is capable of.”

While WAR is currently entirely female, men are welcome to join. Members encourage anyone who is interested to meet them Thursday afternoons at 4:30 by the Luther Bell.

“It’s really beautiful outside right now, it’s a good time [for newcomers] to start,” Sharot said. “We’re so lucky to be here in Decorah with so many great places to run.”

Ice Cave Road, Twin Springs Park and downtown Decorah are among the typical routes for the club to run.

WAR has also held a few events outside of their weekly meetings to further promote their supportive atmosphere. One such event was a group spaghetti dinner this spring.

Club members also participated in the Living History Farms race in Des Moines in November. In true cross country style, the seven-mile race offered the club an additional bonding experience while they raced through creeks and mud. The club is sponsored by Greg Lonning and the Wellness Program, which helped cover the cost of the race.

Members stated that having a group to run with regularly helps them work toward a goal of running longer distances. Recently, an additional meeting time was added on Tuesday afternoons for members who are training for a half marathon at the beginning of the summer.

“Don’t be afraid to try something that might be a struggle at first,” Sharot said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re the fastest or run the farthest, it’s exciting to go just a little farther each time.”

For any who are interested, WAR invites students to join in the final few runs of the spring.