Eight Great Reasons to Run a 5K Road Race
Beyond the obvious reason of doing it for fun and fitness, starting a training plan in order to participate in a 5K race has many hidden benefits. Consider some of these as you prepare for the big 5K day:
1. Discover New Training Routes. The great thing about running is you can do it right out your door. Of course, if you run the same route all the time, you can start to get bored. By running 5K races, you learn new routes that you can later add to your training regimen.
2. Raise Funds. Most 5K races benefit a non-profit organization. These can range from schools to medical research organizations to community centers. Your entry fee helps raise funds for the organization, and you benefit from a good run. Much more fun than simply cutting a check.
3. The Wonderful Sense of Accomplishment. Novice runners often have a goal of just finishing a race. But as you get a few races under your laces, you will start to set goals and want to improve in each event. Reaching the finish line feels so great when you have worked so hard.
4. Camaraderie and Support. Let's face it, running on your own just is not as fun as running with a group. When you run a 5K, you receive cheers of encouragement and free cups of water from the kindest of strangers. It really helps you perform better.
5. Safety Pins. When you register for a 5K, you get a race number. This tag usually attaches to your shirt with the use of safety pins. Run enough 5K's, and you'll have a lifelong supply of safety pins.
6. T-Shirts. Race sponsors usually provide race t-shirts to participants who register by a certain date. After a year of running in races, you will have a fresh stock of training tops.
7. Community. Folks who run road races are a fairly consistent group. Eventually, you will start to recognize people from other races and be able to swap race stories. It's great fun and a fantastic place to make friends.
8. Family Participation. Many races include a fun run for kids. So, after mom and dad finish the 5K, the kids get to do a brisk one-mile race. It's a win-win. The kids get to see you doing something healthy, and they get to mirror your efforts in their own event.
If you have considered taking up running and hope to participate in road races, registering for a 5K is a great way to stay motivated to put in your time on the road. There are plenty of road races that take place in the fall, from haunted Halloween events to Thanksgiving turkey trots. Why not register for one and get started today?
Happily submitted by Kathryn Acciari, The Running REALTOR(R)
Sturbridge, Massachusetts
(508) 982-0686
When I'm not out in the market, I'm often out running, biking, or swimming in Central Massachuetts. Join me!
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