10K training program: should I sign up?

[juliahenry]

My local running store is offering a 12-week 10-K prep program (before a local 10K that I can't run because of work/travel plans).

Should I sign up? It's 2 runs/week, plus some seminars etc, for $100. I will miss 3 weeks' worth because of work and family travel, including the first week (info session and one run) and the last 2 weeks (including the 10K race.)

The thing is, I can already run 10K. And I know what I need to do to get faster/better. But it might be fun to run with other people (I've never tried) and it might motivate me/help me run at different times.

What do you think?

Should I sign up? Or just do it myself?

[finallykrisb]

I wouldn't spend the money if you don't actually need the coaching and will miss 25% of the scheduled sessions and the race.

Have you tried local running stores and maybe meetup.com to look for running groups?

[hjohnson050711]

I wouldn't spend the money if you are going to miss that much of the training

[gt7301b]

Nope, not a chance. I'd join a free group.

[ebeth]

$100 seems like a lot to me.

I did a half marathon training program last summer prior to HM #7. I had long run company, made some new friends, and ran a PR, so I'd say it was worth it.

[jgleespen]

Nope, I would join something free.

[juliahenry]

Thanks! I'll look for a free group and spend the money on shoes :-)