MVS differs from other running clubs in that we offer personalized coaching services to runners of all levels, which may include individuals looking to:
-- Transition from a walker to runner
-- Increase overall fitness
-- Run a personal best in the 5k or any other distance
-- Qualify for the Olympic Trials
Coach Fernando Braz brings extensive coaching expertise to the club with over 16 years of experience coaching running at all levels. Click the links on the left for information about Coach Braz and his staff. He is supported by additional coaches who help monitor on-site workouts.
Coach Braz designs a program based on a full evaluation of your short-term and long-term goals. Unlike other club coaches, Coach Braz tailors your program in order for you to meet those specific, individual goals.
When you join MVS, it's simple to sign up for coaching services by following these steps.
STEP 1: Provide your background and short- and/or long-term goals
Once you have decided that coaching will help you reach your walking or running goals, now is the time to outline those specific goals. Click the Sign-up Form on the left to view and complete it. Provide information about your experience with walking and/or running and what you would like to achieve over the short term and/or long term. For example, you may want to specify how many days you currently train, any injuries you have and what distance may be a focus (whether you'd like to complete a sprint or finish a 5k in a certain time).
STEP 2: Select the coaching service level which will best help you attain those goals
On the Sign-up Form, there are three separate coaching level services from which you may choose. These services are described below and include applicable fees.
Level 1
Level 1 is our baseline coaching service and offers on-site coaching during any of our scheduled seasons (Winter, Spring or Fall). Depending on the season, we hold workouts at different locations in the Greater Merrimack Valley area. During Spring and Fall, practice is held at the North Andover track facility (please see Spring/Fall or Winter for further information about dates and times, and Directions for directions. During the Winter season, we meet at an indoor facility in Andover or an outdoor facility in Lawrence.
Fee: $40 per season (usualy a 12-week period; not available during Winter season)
Level 2
Level 2 includes the same on-site coaching as Level 1, but also offers off-site coaching during any of our scheduled sessions/seasons (Winter, Spring or Fall). A fully structured weekly written running schedule is sent to each individual via email and may be modified during the season through ongoing email communication.
Fee: $75 per season (usually a 12 to 15 week period)
Level 3
Level 3 is more of a "24-7" coaching level. Like both Level 1 and 2, this coaching level includes on-site. In addition, a week-by-week schedule is sent via email and may change based on shifting goals and needs. Level 3 coaching is also available during the "off-season" (that is, any weeks/months between the seasonal sessions).
Fee: $65 per month
STEP 3: Select additional options which may apply to you
There are two specific options which may be best for you, depending on your current situation and goals. Please select one of the following if you feel that either would meet your needs.
Online (Only for Level 2 and 3)
We provide online coaching which may be best for individuals who do not live in the area or may have time constraints/obligations which prevent them from participating at on-site workouts. These individuals may therefore decide to be coached exclusively online via email communication.
Walking or Walk-to-Run (Level 1, 2 or 3 applies)
Many individuals would like to improve their fitness with a guided walking program, or would like to begin a walking program as a start to running. We help you get there. The club's organized and supportive walking and walk-to-run programs take you through the steps that will allow you reach your fitness goals.
STEP 4: Complete and submit your profile form and payment
Once you have completed the Sign-up Form, please send it to the following address:
Fernando Braz
81 Main Street
Peabody, MA 01960
Once you have completed the four steps described above, Fernando will begin Coach Evaluation and Program Design.
Coach Evaluation and Program Design
Once Coach Braz receives your profile form, he will assess your needs and determine how to help you achieve your goals. In order to complete the best assessment he may discuss with you the information you provided in your form before designing a program.
Coach Braz develops a customized running program in order to help you specifically achieve your goals. He does not take a cookie-cutter approach, but instead believes that each individual athlete is different and therefore requires a personalized program. A coaching program must evolve based on the individual's progress. Many of Coach Braz's athletes have had great success.
Look here soon for testimonials that explain why Coach Braz's program will help you meet your running goals.