More Ways to Move on Marathon Weekend
For the first time, walkers will have their own dedicated start at the TC 5K presented by Fredrikson, allowing even more participants to experience Marathon Weekend at their preferred pace.
There's more than one way to move through Marathon Weekend.
This October, the TC 5K presented by Fredrickson will debut its first official Walker Wave, presented by One Pass, offering those who prefer to walk the 3.1-mile course a dedicated place at the starting line -- and a new way to join one of the Twin Cities' biggest weekends of movement.
Designed for first-timers, families, older adults and anyone who prefers to walk, the new wave reflects a shared goal between Twin Cities In Motion and One Pass: making movement more accessible and creating opportunities for people to stay active in ways that work for them.
“We want to get more people moving and keep them moving,” says Twin Cities In Motion President Dean Orton. “Whether you run, walk or do a little of both, the Walker Wave gives walking its own start and experience, surrounded by the energy and encouragement of our participants and volunteers—an experience that can help support you moving well beyond event day.”
Walker Wave participants will still enjoy all the hallmarks of Marathon Weekend -- the starting-line excitement, volunteers, and cheering spectators, and the thrill of crossing the finish line. What's new: a dedicated start for walkers, giving everyone the freedom to move at a pace that feels right to them.
“Race day looks different for everyone, but it starts the same way – by lacing up your favorite pair of sneakers. Whether you cross the finish line walking or sprinting, the important thing is that you don’t stop there,” says Tom Wiffler, CEO of One Pass. “At One Pass, we believe healthy living should meet people wherever they are, whether they're taking their first steps toward a fitness goal or maintaining an active lifestyle over time. The goal is to always keep moving.”
That approach will extend beyond the 5K course. During Marathon Weekend, the TC Family Events Expo on Saturday will feature free mobility and balance assessments from One Pass for both walkers and runners.
The assessments will give participants a snapshot of their strengths and potential imbalances, along with a starting point for thinking about movement and fitness beyond race weekend. It's a simple way to turn the momentum of an event into something that can continue after crossing the finish line.
And that is part of the idea behind the Walker Wave itself.
For some, the TC 5K may be one chapter in a long history of races and walks. For others, it may be their very first start line, a new fitness goal, or simply an opportunity to move alongside family and friends. There is no single path into an active lifestyle and no single pace required to belong on Marathon Weekend.
Ready to walk with us on Saturday, October 3? Register for the TC 5K Walker Wave, presented by One Pass, and learn more about Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend at tcmevents.org.
