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CARRBORO, N.C. - (March 6, 2008) - Fleet Feet, Incorporated, the nation's leading franchisor of running specialty stores, has announced the launch of No Boundaries, a national training program geared toward guiding beginners to walk or run their first 5K (3.1 miles). This spring, in a partnership with New Balance, more than 80 Fleet Feet Sports stores around the country are offering the program to their local communities. The purpose of the program is to introduce participants to the lifetime fitness activities of running and walking, encourage them to live healthier lifestyles and achieve goals they never thought possible.
According to Fleet Feet, Incorporated President, Jeff Phillips, "No Boundaries allows Fleet Feet Sports to share its brand message and mission of fit with a completely new group of customers. In one of our communities where we piloted it, 75% of the participants had never shopped at a Fleet Feet Sports store before."
Although Fleet Feet Sports is well known among runners, the majority of No Boundaries participants considered themselves minimally active prior to joining their local training program. With the guidance of coaches and staff, No Boundaries participants will work toward building healthier lifestyles and discover how proper footwear and technical apparel can help them stay comfortable while pursuing their goals. Local coaches will provide advice, support, weekly group training runs and walks, and educational clinics on topics such as proper nutrition, choosing the right gear and avoiding injury.
New Balance has partnered with Fleet Feet Sports as the national sponsor of the No Boundaries program to provide support, product and advertising dollars.
Dave Shelbourne, Running Specialty (Elite) Sales Manager at New Balance, said, "New Balance is thrilled to partner with Fleet Feet Sports and support this innovative national program. No Boundaries offers a win/win for the participant, Fleet Feet Sports, and New Balance. On a consumer level, the program will deliver results that can help change lives. And, from a vendor's perspective, the program provides an avenue to introduce new runners and walkers to our products."
According to Jeff Phillips, "Our store owners are focused on educating and helping people in their local communities live healthier lifestyles. This program not only helps beginners train for their first 5K, but it provides the support and tools they need to live a healthier lifestyle for years to come. We are proud to partner with New Balance on a program that can change peoples' lives."
Fleet Feet, Incorporated is the industry leader in franchising successful, community-oriented, specialty footwear, apparel and accessory stores serving runners, walkers and lifetime fitness enthusiasts. Currently there are 81 Fleet Feet Sports locations nationwide. Fleet Feet, Incorporated offers support for existing and potential franchises out of its corporate headquarters in Carrboro, North Carolina.
For more information on No Boundaries, contact Robyn Goby, (303) 581-1065 or robyn.goby@fleetfeet.com.
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director
(805) 696-6232; Fax = (805) 659-0016
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
www.RunningUSA.org.
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