AQ RBS is dedicated to group fitness of all abilities. We can help you train for your first 5k or a marathon. Maybe you like to ride your bike for fun? We meet several times a week for group runs, rides (including mountain biking), and swims. You do not have to show up to every single group workout. Come and go as you feel. If you want to be pushed, we can hold you accountable for your workouts. You can get out what you put in.
Runs: Typically, our group runs depend on the day and the abilities of the group that shows up on any given day. We usually run between 3-6 miles. The pace ranges from 10:00 min miles all the way up into 6:30s. It all depends on the group. If we have enough people we split into two groups. The second group will run faster. Do not get scared! These runs are non-drop meaning you will not be left behind.
Road Bike Rides: Bike rides depend on daylight. In the fall it is sometimes hard to ride because of the limited amount of daylight. A special racing bike is not needed. Some people do have them, but not all people. all bikes are welcome. Distances range from 10 miles all the way to a 100 miles if you are up for the challenge. The average speed can be anywhere from 10mph all the way to 20mph. Bike rides are also NON-DROP. We won’t leave anyone behind!
Swimming: Swimming is difficult because we do not have a pool at AQ. Some of us have YMCA memberships and meet at the YMCA for swims. If you are not a member at the YMCA, you can pay $5 per swim. Another common option is open lap swim at the East Grand Rapids High School Pool. This is located right around the corner from AQ. They have a punch card available for $25 for 10 swims. Costs of swimming will try to be covered with the club’s budget.
Mountain Biking: This is new to the club this year. We will try to hit some local trails such as Luton, Cannonsburg, Merrell Trail, Whalfield, Upper Mac, Yankee Springs and many more. AQ is located about 20 min away from most of these trails. No prior skills necessary. If you need a mountain bike please email the president and we can set you up with one. Most bikes will work.
Racing: Racing will also try to be covered by the club’s budget. For running we will do some local races such as the Riverbank Run, the Grand Rapids Marathon and the Turkey Trot. Most larger races have a 5k, and 10k if you do not want to run a full marathon. A half marathon is always an option too. For cycling, there is an abundant amount of local races. We participate in criteriums, road races, mountain bike races and cyclocross (which is a cross between mountain and road). If you are up for the real challenge we sometimes participate in triathlons.
Our Facebook can be found by searching: Aquinas College Run Bike Swim.
