For many students, running a half marathon can seem like a daunting challenge. But with the right guidance, a training plan, and a group of fellow runners, the hurdle becomes much more manageable. With the new initiative Join the Ride, ACLO helps students take it step by step toward their first 21 kilometers.
On Sunday, May 31, Groningen will once again be in the spotlight for running during the Marathon Groningen powered by Campus Groningen, offering various distances for runners of all ages. The start and finish are on the Zernike Campus, and for ACLO members aiming for the 21-kilometer route, the ACLO has organized this special preparation program.
The program includes five clinics, weekly training schedules, and workshops on nutrition and lifestyle. In total, 35 students are participating. “The idea came about because half marathons are quite popular right now,” says Elianne van Boven, ACLO’s sports coordinator. “But training alone can be less fun. That’s why we designed a program where you work together toward a goal, with professional guidance along the way.”
From 5 Kilometers to 21
The clinics are aimed at students with a basic level of fitness. “You needed to be able to run about five kilometers to join,” says Maaike Waalkens, secretary of ACLO’s executive board. “That makes it realistic to work toward the half marathon within the available timeframe.”
Training sessions are led by experienced runners Bram Buigel and Nik Lemmink from Trainen met de Top. Since early February, participants have not only attended five group clinics but also receive a personalized training schedule each week.
“Every week we get a new schedule tailored to different levels,” Elianne explains. “So it’s not just about the clinics themselves—you’re guided through the whole process.” Participants can also join extra sessions at a local student athletics club and receive support on nutrition and recovery.
Nutrition, Sleep, and Recovery
For additional guidance, ACLO collaborates with students from Hanze University. One student from the Lifestyle Coaching minor runs two workshops: one at the start of the program and one just before the race.
“The first workshop covers questions like: how should I eat and sleep during this training period?” Maaike explains. “Later, we focus on nutrition around the race itself: what to eat before and during a half marathon.”
The board members agree that these practical tips are especially valuable for beginner runners. “If you trained on your own, you might just follow an online training plan,” Elianne says. “Here, attention is also given to things like heart rate, technique, and cadence. That way, you run more efficiently and reduce muscle strain.”
Training Together Motivates
The group aspect is just as important as the training itself. All participants are in a group chat where they can ask questions and arrange joint runs.
“There are lots of questions about the schedule,” Elianne says. “But also messages from people wanting to train together. That really helps keep motivation high.”
On May 31, the students hope to start together. “We’re trying to start in the same corral and maybe even wear special shirts,” says Inge van der Meulen, ACLO’s internal coordinator. “How amazing would it be to run with a group of 35 at the same time?”
Tips for Beginner Runners
For students not enrolled in the program, the board members offer a few tips for preparing for the marathon. According to Inge: “Find what motivates you. It could be running with someone, ticking off a schedule, or discovering beautiful routes to run.”
It’s also important to consider more than just running, Maaike adds. “Training matters, but rest, recovery, and nutrition are just as essential to keep your body healthy.” And perhaps the most important advice: don’t be too hard on yourself. “It’s a program over several weeks,” Elianne says. “If you miss a session, that’s totally fine.”
A New Initiative
This is the first year Join the Ride has been organized, but ACLO hopes to expand the concept. “This is truly a new initiative from ACLO,” Inge says. “We also want to develop it for other events, like triathlons or Hyrox competitions.”
For now, the focus is on May 31, when the participants hope to cross the finish line together. “The most beautiful thing would be if everyone feels: I achieved this together with this group,” Elianne adds. “The whole process leading up to the race is just as special as the race itself.”
Series Leading Up to Marathon Powered by Campus Groningen
This article is part of a small series by Campus Groningen on preparing for the Marathon Groningen powered by Campus Groningen on May 31, 2026. In the coming weeks, we’ll share tips, stories, and insights from runners, coaches, and experts on both the physical and mental aspects of running, so participants arrive at the start line well-prepared and confident. Read the other articles here:
Prepare your mind to run a marathon
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