Whether you're lacing up your running shoes for the first time or returning to running, Cats to 5k is your guide to crossing the finish line with confidence. Designed with NMU Wildcats in mind, this two-tiered training program supports both beginner and intermediate levels through a structured plan.
Both of the Cats to 5k levels focus on progressive movement with walk/run intervals, helping you build endurance and community along the way. You'll find weekly workouts and tips here, plus guidance to keep you feeling your best.
This is more than a run. It’s a celebration of movement, connection, and Wildcat pride. So grab your gear, pick your level, and take your first step toward the 5k—the Wildcat way.
It's RACE WEEK!
No training for Wednesday, October 8th. Rest up for tomorrow!
Mind over Miles: Spirit Mission
Feeling the start-of-semester stress? Channel that energy into an adventure. Join Mind Over Miles: Spirit Mission, a free, 6-week interactive story from NMU designed to get you moving and build your resilience. This isn't just a couch-to-5k program; it's a campus-wide mystery where your physical activity is the key. As a new "Recruit," your runs or walks will help push back a mysterious "Static of Stress" affecting campus wellbeing. You can participate from anywhere, on your own schedule, or join in on group runs. After each of the 18 "missions," you'll receive an email from Mission Control that advances the story and uncovers clues. Your journey culminates in a celebratory 5k, restoring a spirit of wellbeing for yourself and the entire Wildcat community. Ready to accept your mission? After you complete each of the 18 training sessions (whether on your own or through our 'Cats to 5k), log them here.
Meet your Session Leaders
Landon Strzelewicz
NMU PD
He/him
- I am currently training for the Michigan State Police academy.
- The only races I've competed in are a few casual 5Ks but I am outdoors a lot, whether it's backpacking, rock climbing, or road tripping.
- My favorite running song is "Bet On It" from High School Musical 2.
Susan Robison
Student Success
She/her/ella
One of my goals for 2025 was to run three 5Ks and to overall be more active and spend more time outside. By the end of the year, I will have met my 5K goal twice over!
Chelsey Cebulski
People, Culture, and WellBeing
She/her
- Used to be a competitive runner and now just do it for funsies and endurance training for mountain biking
- I have three cats, and they are the jewels of my life (Barry Allan, Otto Octavious, Henry Clawville)
- I love when I see my friends succeed in life. They're all baddies.
Jess Corkin
WellBeing
She/her
- I've ran several half marathons, a 25k trail race, two marathons, and a variety of other races/fun runs. Some of my favorites include those that cross bridges, like the Mackinac Bridge and International Bridge to Sault, Canada.
- I used to be a personal trainer, so putting a training "hat" on again is exciting for me!
Sarah O'Neill
Marketing & Communications
She/her
- I started running as a personal challenge at the age of 30. With the perfect playlist, I can conquer any race.
- I have run three half marathons. My first was in the Great Smoky Mountains!
- Pro tip: It's okay to slow down or walk; the big goal is to challenge yourself and grow.
Erica Nelson
Human Resources
She/her
- I have run in the Boston & Chicago Marathons
- My half marathon PR is 1:29
- Favorite running route is the IOHT from Ishpeming.
- I love listening to podcasts while I run, mostly true crime.
Emily Meier
WellBeing
She/her
I was a Cross Country and Track & Field athlete in high school, and I've raced every distance from a 400M to a 50k, except a marathon!
Lanae Joubert
School of Health and Human Performance
She/her
While I do enjoy many forms of physical activity, I have not ran since the year 2000, when I completed my one and only marathon. I will begin again by leading a group of beginners on Fridays at 12:15pm. Learning to run again is a process that takes time so please join me by bringing your personal patience and moral support for...
Anna Vanderhoef
Marketing & Communications
She/her
I have been a road runner my whole life and since moving to Marquette I’ve gotten into trail running. For me: the longer the better, I prefer the long distance races like the half and full marathons. I recently just ran my first ultramarathon!
Matt Smock
Center for Teaching and Learning
He/him
- I ran my first 10K when I was 12 & still have the free t-shirt (the first of many).
- I've never been a speedster, and am not getting faster 4+ decades into my running "career." Still, I managed to squeak out a victory in the 2024 Cliffs Autumn Classic 5K trail race over elite competition (pictured).
Christie Deloria
WellBeing
She/her
Running has been part of my life on and off since middle school. I kinda slowed down this summer with the smoke and heat. So I'm excited about getting back into running as the fall/winter starts. Even when running consistently, I actively use run/walk combinations to help me run longer, farther and with ...
Register Now!
Registration for the 2nd Annual Mind Over Miles 5k is live! The 5k will take place on Thursday, October 9th, 2025 at 5:30pm starting at the Wildcat Statue near Jamrich Hall.
Students, faculty, and staff at NMU can register for free (with the option to purchase a t-shirt), while community members can register for $20, which includes a race t-shirt. Register by 11:59pm on September 14th to guarantee your shirt!