A Community that Moves Together

Heart to Start meets you where you are — literally and figuratively. This free 12-week training program is designed to support walkers and runners of all paces and experience levels. We don’t focus on speed or ability; instead, we celebrate progress through small steps and a shared commitment to a remarkable finish.

Our foundation is simple: training for a 5K (3.1 miles). But the impact goes far beyond the distance.

Whether you're looking to build a consistent walking or running routine, reach a new milestone, or connect with a community of like-minded individuals, Heart to Start is here to support you every step of the way.

Designed to lay a lasting foundation for physical movement, Heart to Start goes beyond fitness — it’s become an annual social movement. Participants of all paces come together not only to pursue personal goals, but also to celebrate and encourage one another. The joy and camaraderie that emerge from this shared journey are what make it truly special. We love that!

Over the years, Heart to Start has grown into a vibrant community of thousands who find joy in supporting one another. Last year alone, we welcomed more than 3,500 participants from across the country and around the world.

This year, we’re thrilled to welcome back returning participants and invite new ones to experience the power of this amazing community. Whether you're walking, running, or simply cheering others on, there’s a place for you here.

Heart to Start Season 14 registration is closed. We will reopen for our next season on October 1, 2026.

Stay Tuned for Season 15!

  • Our annual season gets underway in the Fall of each year as we bring the training program to you, to your home, where you live.

    • It's national and international! We welcome everyone from around the world to join the movement for these 12 weeks.

    • All modes of movement are celebrated while our program focus is training to walk or run a 5K.

    • Personalized experience based on how you are participating – virtually or in-person (Portland, OR).

    • Virtual connections through our training club app and private social media group. Participate in the conversations to be motivated and inspired.

    • Weekly emails so you don't miss important announcements. Also included are motivational messages and fun interactive invitations to help connect us across the miles.

    • Online portal. Your resource for the program, FAQs, helpful links, program schedule, suggested training plans, etc.

    • Local to Portland weekly meetups held at Catlin Gabel track in SW Portland, Oregon.

    • Enhanced audio training podcast allowing you to press play for each of your 5K interval trainings and receive prompts for pace changes, helpful tips, and entertaining music.

    • H2S Strength complements your aerobic activity with a 12-week video-based strength training series.

    • Goal event filled with fun engagement and celebration. An interactive virtual experience and an in-person (Oregon) option will be available thanks to our partnership with Hood To Coast Race Series. Registered participants of our Heart to Start program receive a 50% discount code!

    • Did we mention all the fun, celebration, and encouragement?!?

  • Important dates:

    • Registration opens October 1, 2025

    • Season begins November 30, 2025

    • Kickoff event (virtual + in-person), December 4 (6-7:30p PT)

    • In-person meetups (SW Portland, OR), Saturdays (Dec. 6-Feb. 14)

    • Registration closes December 31, 2025

    • Goal event February 21, 2026 (in-person and virtual options)

    We are proud to partner with Hood to Coast race series in offering our annual Providence Heart to Start 5K/10K event with an option to register and participate virtually or in-person in Portland, Oregon.

  • Currently, our in-person training group is available during the annual group training and is held in Portland, Oregon.

    As other groups, coordinated and managed through Providence health system locations, relaunch or become available, we will update this site with all the details.

  • SELF-LED AUDIO TRAINING PROGRAM LAUNCHING SPRING/SUMMER OF 2025!

    Following our podcast-style audio training? Access helpful resources to support your efforts - link access available at release date.

    Interested in following the training outside of our annual Nov-Feb worldwide group training? You can find our Heart to Start Audio Training on popular podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.