FAQs

1. Can I attend an ABRaS training session? All runners interested in improving their speed, fitness or endurance are welcome to attend ABRaS training on either a Monday or Wednesday evening.

2. Which training session should I attend first? New runners are welcome to attend both Monday (Track) and Wednesday night (Various Locations) sessions.  However, if this is your first time training on a track, you may wish to come to a Wednesday session first.  Please contact the Duty Runner for more information and to confirm the training location.

3. Can I be a member of other clubs? ABRaS AC members are free to join or remain members of any other sporting clubs.

4. How far/how fast should I be able to run in order to train with the ABRaS AC? Runners should be capable of running at least 8km continuously in order to benefit from ABRaS training.

5. What if I don’t like it? Everyone can try our training sessions on up to 3 occasions (irrespective of where that training is held). After 3 sessions, you are required to join ABRaS AC in order to continue training with us.

6. How much does it cost to join? Membership fees are set at 400 AED for adults and 250 AED for juniors (those under 18) for the calendar year of 2012. Included in your fee, you will receive a club vest. Sessions are free to attend once you have joined – the only exception to this is the 3AED park entry fee when we are training in Safa Park.

7. How often do I have to attend training? Once a member, you can attend as many or as few of the twice-weekly group sessions as you like. There is no limit, nor obligation. You will also be added to a mailing list such that you will receive the schedule for each training session. This allows you, for example, to do the training session on your own if other commitments prevent you from attending group training.

8. Can I use my I-pod during training? Our sessions are generally held in the dark and we are often running close together. It’s not safe for you or your fellow runners if you wear an I-Pod. You need to be able to hear instructions and other runners.

9. What time should I arrive for training? Runners should aim to arrive on time for our training sessions – especially for track sessions. This means arriving at the track between 6.15pm and 6.30pm, ready to start the warm-up at 6:30pm.

10. Isn’t it too hot to run? The weather in Dubai presents some challenges for runners. See this article on Running in Extreme Temperatures for more information. Know the signs and symptoms of heat illness and their treatments. If you have any of the symptoms, stop running, get to a cool place and consume cold fluids.