As promised, there is also a way to get involved if you don’t want to become a 261 Coach…
261 Fearless is a global non-profit network that encourages women to run and teaches them how. We believe that running can be the first step toward empowerment.
Once women overcome limiting beliefs like “I’m not made for running” they can truly achieve anything in life (not only in sports). But sometimes society’s (or even their own) expectations are so high that they feel overwhelmed and never even start.
This is where our 261 Coaches and the 261 Running Program come in. Since 2016, we have helped establish social running groups in 12 countries on 5 continents!
Well, there is the obvious way: Start running! Just head outside, pick up the pace, and feel the joy of moving your body. If you need help starting out our 261 Fearless Coaches are there to help. But this is not a pitch to just join one of our running groups!
Instead, we’ll say it blatantly:
Our running groups rely on our 261 Fearless Coaches to lead women in their pursuit of a more healthy, active, and therefore empowered lifestyle. The 261 Fearless Coaches around the world are role models for our members. They motivate, inspire, and encourage women to step out of their comfort zone.
Basically, you only need one thing to join our global crew of 261 Fearless Coaches:
The Desire to Pass on Your Enthusiasm for Running to Others!
Got that? Great! 261 Fearless handles the rest with an extensive certification course where you will learn everything you need to lead your own local 261 Fearless running group.
Join our 261 Fearless 'Train the Trainer' Certification Course TODAY! During our Certification Course, our 261 Master Coaches provide you with the information and skills needed to lead and guide women’s running groups. You will learn the 261 Fearless methodology that is built around three pillars:
Promoting and Executing Sustainable and Healthy Running Habits
Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Physical Activity
Developing and Maintaining the Ability to Participate in Exercise
In particular, the program focuses on the following:
When I learned about 261 Fearless I knew I found something truly unique and special. So, I became a 261 Coach in 2019 and began coaching with the 261 Fearless Club GNYRochester. I was able to witness, first-hand, the impact 261 Fearless was making on the club members.
Lori, 261 Fearless Coach
As promised, there is also a way to get involved if you don’t want to become a 261 Coach…
Even though we believe that running can benefit everyone who decides to start, we realize not everyone wants to or can. Whatever the case may be, you may still very much agree with our mission and our values:
We believe that running fosters courage, confidence, and self-esteem. It helps women around the world be mentally and physically strong so they can stand up to challenges in their private and professional lives.
We believe that running should be fun. There is no pressure whatsoever in our 261 Fearless running groups.
We believe in openness and diversity. Everyone is welcome to join regardless of their fitness level, age, religion, sexuality, or ethnicity.
We believe in building networks. At 261 Fearless we go outside, experience new things, break down cultural barriers, and meet with runners from all over the world.
And our major partner, the multinational sportswear company adidas, believes in all of these things too.
Introducing…
The 261 Fearless Collection by adidas is a limited-edition series made exclusively for 261 Fearless and our supporters. All items in this collection were generously provided by adidas so all proceeds benefit 261 Fearless. That means you can help to empower women runners globally just by making a purchase! As can be expected you will find all sorts of sporty and running-inspired attire in the collection. Books and a broad range of accessories are also available.
But purchasing items in our shop isn't the only way to support 261 Fearless. Direct donations are also greatly appreciated and will directly support the empowerment of women worldwide as well as help spread the message of 261 Fearless.
When Kathrine Switzer entered the Boston Marathon in 1967, women weren’t allowed to participate in the event. She signed her entry form using her initials, K.V., not to mislead race officials, but because that’s how she was accustomed to signing things. Those officials didn’t check her health form which stated her full name and Kathrine was able to enter the race. She was given bib number 261. In a dramatic incident that made headlines around the world one angry race director attempted to violently pull Kathrine off the course.
At the time, Kathrine was only 20 years old. Even at such a young age her incredible strength and determination to finish helped her overcome fear.
Kathrine’s passion to support women in finding the joy and power in being active led to her founding 261 Fearless with fellow runner Edith Zuschmann. Together, their common goal is to educate women around the world and provide them the opportunity to to become empowered by experiencing their own ‘261 moment’.
Join a Global Tribe of Brave Women Following in Kathrine’s Footsteps!
YES! If you are passionate about running, we encourage you to apply. The 261 Clubs are not about running faster or further, but about having FUN.
YES! You will learn the skills you need to lead the group in our edcucation program, so there is no previous experience required.
You can submit the form to register your interest and we will reach out to you when when a 261 Club is established in your area. While you wait please consider supporting us by visiting our shop and purchasing an item (or 2) from the 261 Fearless Collection by adidas.
At 261 Fearless, we are not about running faster or farther and our Meet Runs are all about having FUN. We teach healthy and life-long running with evidence-based knowledge about running. We don't teach how to write training plans.
YES! Any support is appreciated and changes women's lives globally. We thank you for your support!