SJTR INTRO GROUP | Saint John

The SJTR Intro group is a weekly guided trail run that is designed to build fitness and confidence running on trail.

How it works

The Intro Group is an 10-week intro to trail running group where we will start small (~3kms), and slowly build the difficulty each week. At the end of the program we expect your fitness and confidence will have increased enough to complete your first trail race!

Starting April 16, 2026 we will meet weekly at the location listed on the 2026 Schedule below. Just before we head out for the run, we will introduce the guides, have a chat about what to expect when we are out there, and split into groups. Each group will have at least one guide at the front, one guide at the back (aka: The 'Caboose'), and a few experienced trail runners mixed in to ensure nobody is left behind. We will take several breaks during the run to re-group and give everyone a breather.

This is repeated each week for 8 weeks + 2 bonus weeks on the race route to help you prepare for the GOAL RACE!

New in 2026!

This year we have partnered with local legend, Daryl Steeves to help you through preparation for your goal race, the East Coast Beast Coast. When you sign up for the optional "Intro Group - With Training Plan" you will be given access to your training calendar through the Final Surge training app. Your plan won't start right away, but you'll be able to log your training and look ahead to your schedule. Daryl Steeves is an Exercise Physiologist with over 45 years of coaching experience. Daryl is a certified coach with the Endurance Sport Coaching Institute and Ironman U. Prior to the start of training, coach Daryl will host a webinar to review the training, and answer any questions. He will also be available for training questions through your Final Surge account.

Your plan will include suggested workouts for running, cross-training, strength training and stretching all balanced for an effective training calendar. You can set the software to give you daily workout reminders in email or DM so you never miss one. After the plan is completed, the Final Surge account continues to be yours for as long as you wish to use it at no additional cost.

What is the Goal Race?

Your goal race is the East Coast Beast Coast 8km at Rockwood Park on June 27, 2026!

Don't think you will be ready?

Nonsense! You will absolutely be ready! Contrary to road racing, trail racing isn't all running.

You are welcome and encouraged to hike as much of the race as you see fit!

To accomplish this goal you will need to be committed. You will need to show up each week and push yourself, maybe even get a little uncomfortable.

Although everyone is welcome, you should have some level of fitness to join the intro. group (aka - you're able to walk/run 3-5km on the road). Hiking during the run is expected and very much welcome, but hiking the entire time does not create a progressive environment.

THURSDAYS

6:30 pm

* includes registration & fees for the East Coast Beast Coast 8km trail race ($50 value)

Join as many as you like, but keep in mind

consistency is the key to success!

Registration open from March 1st to April 15, 2026

By registering for the intro. group, you are also signing up for the East Coast Beast Coast 8km trail race. Of course it is up to you if you want to run it, but after week one there are no refunds.

The Fine Print

Although we will provide lots of "great" advice, we do not provide professional coaching services. We are your adventure guides, who are very familiar with the trails in our area. We will create a fun and inspiring place to socialize, while at the same time, help get you stronger and more comfortable on trail. If you don't like it after the first run, you are entitled to a full refund. No questions asked!

Trail Running carries a certain level of risk. It is your responsibility to understand those risks and assess your own ability. By registering, you understand and accept these risks.