AUBURN — The YMCA will kick off their Couch to 5K program on Tuesday, April 19.

Couch to 5k is an introduction to getting the body moving, starting off alternating between walking and running short distances and slowly building up until after eight weeks, participants are ready to run a 5k (3.1 miles) non-stop. Individuals will receive a training plan and log, and will be coached on proper warm-up, cool down and basic nutrition.

The first meeting on April 19 will take place in the gym at the Y. Each class thereafter will meet at Festival Plaza on Main Street, Auburn. The program is designed to have 20 minutes of instruction and then 30 to 40 minutes of exercise.

The program will culminate with the opportunity for group members to participate in the first 5K of the Greater LA Triple Crown, the Y Fit Fest, on Saturday, June 11 (registration fee is separate from the program cost).

Participants meet once a week for eight weeks on Tuesday evenings from 5:45 to 7 p.m., April 19 through June 7, rain or shine. Cost is $30 for members and $55 for nonmembers. New to this year’s program, the Y is offering a family rate: Active Y members who are part of the same family can register for $55; children must be at least 8 years of age.

Register at the Y’s member service desk, 62 Turner St. Y members can register online at www.alymca.org. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes and dress for the weather. For more information, contact Tish Caldwell at 795 4095 or [email protected].