MADISON- The mental and physical aspects of training in athletics can be very taxing even for the most elite athletes. Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville is attempting to help even the most novice in the sport of running by offering a summer-long barrage of training programs to assist in preparing for numerous competitions or for those who just want to become healthier utilizing the freeform exercise of running.

The summer training regimen is made up of three basic programs- Running of the Bulls, a race scheduled for Aug. 18; Speed Demons, a non-specific race program; Spartan Sprint, an obstacle race scheduled for Sept. 22 in Nashville.

“The training programs themselves are designed to allow participants to safely increase distance and/or speed throughout their training,” said Julia Donovan, training programs director for Fleet Feet Huntsville. “What sets our programs apart is the people. Sometimes it takes the encouragement from coaches, mentors and other participants for someone to start believing they can reach big goals.”

Each of the programs feature numerous experienced running coaches and mentors who assist those who many times are apprehensive about attempting a training regimen that many times can be stressful and challenging even to the most experienced runners. The sessions are arranged to help people of all ages and abilities achieve not only fitness goals, but even more for those who want to become competitive in their attempts at races.

“With our program, we are aiding progress by not only providing the participants the tools, but also by continuing to those to encourage participation again and again,” said Chrissi Hamilton, running coach. “We notice those who don’t show up, so we reach out to them. The second biggest benefit is the encouragement from the coaches. This effort becomes like a big family and some of those relationships continue to build long after the program ends.”

The Running of the Bulls 5K race will be held at the Hampton Cove Greenway and features a 5K and 1 mile Fun Run. This particular event is a mixture of competitive and leisurely fun. The kickoff for the training is June 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville. Training begins June 11. Fee is $100.

The Speed Demons is not about beating others- it’s about challenging yourself to be faster than you were. The high-intensity track workout will help participants become faster, stronger and more efficient and features a 10-week track workout. Kickoff is set for June 5 at 7:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville. The actual training program begins June 12 at the track at Huntsville High School. Fee is $25.

One of the most challenging programs, at least from a goal standpoint, is the Spartan Sprint. The obstacle training consists of running, skill practice and functional conditioning. The preparation is for the Nashville Spartan Sprint held on a new, challenging course at the historic Milky Way Farms in Pulaski, Tenn. The rolling farmland with challenge Spartans with technical terrain, dense woods and an enormous amount of mud will be an ultimate challenge for most.

To conquer the punishing course will be a challenge, but preparing for the challenge can make it easier and the kickoff, set for July 10 beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville, will be the prelude of what’s to come. Training begins July 17 at 6:00 p.m. at various locations in the area.

“What we try to do in the training groups is to cultivate that confidence to keep moving forward,” said Donovan.

Hamilton added, “The support for all involved inspires the participants to keep running and maintain an active lifestyle.”

Details on the programs are available at www.fleetfeethuntsville.com.