Tom Hanks put on a riveting role in the iconic movie Forrest Gump, in which he runs coast to coast across country. For some, running any extended length can seem as tiresome as running the approximately 3,000 miles that it would take to run across the country.
However, the Camp Pendleton Semper Fit Department is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles to active-duty personnel, family members, retirees and Department of Defense employees aboard the base by providing numerous activities and programs.
The 500 Mile Club is one of many programs available to base residents. It’s a program that provides the guidelines to challenge a participant’s mental strength, while simultaneously testing their running abilities during an attempt to complete the demanding feat of 500 miles.
“Runners come in here thinking that they can run forever because they’re physically fit. They quickly find out that, mentally, they are their own worst enemy,” said Cpl. Mark T. Wilson, Semper Fit Specialist, Camp Pendleton. “Over time they learn to overcome the mental barriers that restrict them.”
In order to track the miles ran, club members are given a log sheet to record their efforts. A fitness specialist with the Semper Fit program then signs off on the recorded miles.
“Some of them go on multiple-mile runs each day and quickly reach the 500-mile mark. Others take the ‘slow and steady’ approach’,” said Wilson. “Logging their progress each day helps them stay focused.”
Members are awarded with prizes once they reach the 100, 250 and 500-mile marks. Prizes consist of a certificate of completion, a 500 Mile Club towel, and a T-shirt, all of which directly reflect the member’s success.
“I run because it’s relaxing and it’s an opportunity to burn stress,” said Sgt. Maj. Kenneth E. Warren, sergeant major of Security and Emergency Services Battalion, Camp Pendleton. “It’s also a requirement as a Marine.”
The program is ongoing and participants can join at any time. For more information, visit any base fitness center or call the Semper Fit Program Specialist (760) 763-0657.