Training Partners
These fine establishments and consultants are pleased to offer discounts to The Weekend participants. To redeem these discounts, please present your registration letter to our training partners.
Check back soon for a list of our Training Partners.
Explore as You Train
Training can be fun when you explore new routes and destinations. Here are just a few fun ideas on where you can go on your next training walk. Or look up other local treasures that are waiting to be discovered. Head out with your friends and family today and make it an adventure!
Indianapolis Cultural Trail - Walking Tour
A world-class urban pedestrian path that connects neighborhoods, Cultural Districts and entertainment amenities, and serves as the downtown hub for the entire central Indiana greenway system. The 7.5-mile path allows users to pass by and through many destinations that make Indianapolis a recognized leader in the arts community.
The five downtown cultural districts connected by the Indianapolis Cultural Trail include Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Ave, The Canal & White River State Park, and the Wholesale District. The Cultural Trail will also connect with the Monon Trail, allowing visitors easy access to Broad Ripple Village from downtown.
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Just a short drive or bus ride from downtown Indianapolis on 152 acres of gardens and grounds, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is one of the top ten general art museums in the United States, with a collection of more than 50,000 works that spans a wide range of cultures and eras.
White River State Park / Indianapolis Zoo
Located in the heart of downtown, Indiana's only urban state park offers an awesome array of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Such as the Indianapolis Zoo; the Zoo is open daily at 9:00am. Highlights include Indiana's largest aquarium, open exhibit areas with 350 different animal species.
The Perfect Pair: Walking Shoes
Start your journey on the right foot and in the right shoes! Walking shoes and socks are your most important gear for The Weekend. Visit a specialty running/walking shoe store with knowledgeable staff that is willing to take the time to help you find the right shoes.
Each person's feet are different. The best shoe for you is the one that fits you best, the one that gives you the proper fit, flexibility, comfort and support! Keep these tips in mind while you shop:
- Inform the salesperson that you are training for a 60-kilometre walk (an endurance event).
- Try on shoes with the socks you intend on wearing while you train and walk.
- Try shoes on both feet. If one foot is larger than the other, fit the larger foot. Test them on a hard surface.
- The shoe should be flexible, not stiff.
- If you do not like the insole in the shoe, ask a salesperson to show you other options.
- Get shoes that are one-half or one size larger than your normal shoe size. (There should be a thumb’s width of space between your toe and the end of the shoe to prevent blisters the top of your toes or foot.)
- Look for shoes that breathe and don’t cause your feet to overheat.
- Shop for shoes later in the day or right after walking, since feet have a tendency to swell in the heat and after walking.
- Your heel should not slip in and out of the shoe as you walk.
- Visit New Balance's Lacing Guide to find out how to lace your shoes for a better fit.
If any part of your foot feels it is rubbing against a rough spot in the shoe try another pair or style. These spots are prone to give you blisters. Shoes should feel great when you put them on, don't buy them thinking you will wear them in.
Remember a bad fit will ruin a good shoe. Invest in the right shoes to prevent injury and keep you walking in comfort. When you find shoes with the perfect fit, we recommend buying two pairs and alternating between them. Then make sure to break them in before the event!
The Perfect Pair: Socks
Dry, comfortable feet will help prevent blisters. Nothing can put a damper on your walk faster than blisters. Blisters are caused by moist feet, friction and socks that are wrinkled, damp or bunched up.
It’s vital to invest in socks that can make a big difference in your walking comfort and give you that extra boost to keep you going. Keep these tips in mind while you shop:
- Socks should be form-fitting and comfortable.
- You want socks that are made from synthetic materials (acrylic, CoolMax, nylon, Polartec) because it will wick away the moisture. Socks that are 100% cotton retain moisture and tend to lose shape.
- Make sure your socks are compatible with your sneakers! Socks that don’t fit will cause bunching.
Try on different pairs of socks to see which ones are best for your feet. Socks offer different kinds of thickness and padding. Socks that are padded in the heel and toe areas are good for walkers who are prone to blisters in those areas.
As you train and during the walk, we encourage taking off your shoes and socks off to let your feet air out during your breaks. We also recommend changing socks halfway through your walk. Let’s keep your feet dry, comfortable and happy!
Training is Key
