Question 1

When do you run?

Accepted Answer

During the Fall, every Tuesday at 5:30PM and every Saturday at 10AM. During the winter, every Tuesday at 4:15PM and every Saturday at 10AM. We also have lots of special events and Sunday training plans for upcoming races in Ottawa so keep up to date with our Instagram!

Question 2

Where do you run?

Accepted Answer

All of our runs either start in front of FSS or UCU Square with some events starting elsewhere, be advised, as it gets colder, we will move inside FSS to meetup. For specific routes, check out our Strava to see all of them but the majority are along the Rideau Canal, River or through town to get to a coffee shop!

Question 3

How far do you run?

Accepted Answer

Distances vary by run and by pace group — there is always a shorter option. Check the Events page for the distance on a given week.

Question 4

Do I need to sign up before a run?

Accepted Answer

Not for each individual run — just show up at the meeting spot a few minutes early and say hi. You should, though, fill out our membership form once before your first run: it includes the liability waiver that UOSU requires every member to sign. We're a volunteer crew, so realistically we aren't checking names at the start line — we don't have the bandwidth to chase everyone down. It isn't our rule or the school being difficult, it's just what's required, so whether you've signed it is ultimately your call.

Question 5

I'm slow — will I get dropped?

Accepted Answer

Never. We run in pace groups and every group has a pacer who stays with it from start to finish. All paces and all levels are welcome — nobody finishes alone.

Question 6

I've never run before. Is this for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A lot of our members started at their first uOttaRun run. Come to the slowest pace group, walk when you need to, and go from there.

Question 7

Do I have to be a uOttawa student?

Accepted Answer

Our runs are aimed at uOttawa students, but friends are welcome to tag along. Membership itself is free.

Question 8

Are you running during the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Just check "When do you run?" for scheduling changes.

Question 9

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

We run through most of it. If a run is cancelled or moved, we post it on Instagram and on the Events page of this site.

Question 10

Do you do anything after the run?

Accepted Answer

Often! Coffee runs end at a café, and we hold socials through the term — watch Instagram for what is coming up.

Question 11

What should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

We start and end on-campus so you should only ever need to bring as much as you would need running by yourself!

Question 12

Where can I leave my things during the run?

Accepted Answer

Montpetit has lockers that you only need your lock and student ID to access!

Question 13

How should I dress as it gets colder?

Accepted Answer

Layering is key! A good rule of thumb is prepare as though it's 10°C warmer than the outside temperature and remember that you can always remove layers, much harder to add them later on!

Question 14

What do I do in case of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

If you ever feel unsafe, uncomfortable or you know of someone that feels like such, immediately inform a pacer. Our executives and pacers are all selected not only based on running acumen but also good vibes and knowledge of Ottawa. In the case that you don't feel comfortable contacting a pacer, speak to either an executive as soon as you can or call VCRT (613-562-5411)/emergency services. If you are injured and need medical assistance, do a quick judgement call, if you are within 5-10 minutes from campus, call VCRT at 613-562-5411 and then 911, VCRT can call 911 on your behalf if the situation calls for it. Of course though, follow your instincts and be safe!

Question 15

How do I get involved with uOttaRun?

Accepted Answer

Check our Instagram for recent posts regarding new pacers or executives. We often hire towards the start of each semester!

Question 16

Is there a group chat?

Accepted Answer

Yes — our Discord is where day-to-day chat, ride-alongs and last-minute changes happen. The link is on our Linktree and in the footer of this site.

FAQ

The Runs

What to Bring & Wear

Safety

Getting Involved

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