I haven't always been a runner but I have started running while I was in the military. Mostly due to being a requirement. The more I ran, the better I felt overall. Eventually I started getting bored with the repetitiveness my normal running routes and the treadmill. I needed to find new challenges to keep me interested and excited about running. I checked with the gym I went to and searched online to find new options. I found a website, http://runningintheusa.com/Race/Default.aspx, and started competing in 5K events in my area. Most races offer run/walk option so anyone can do them and it's great for your health and overall fitness. Recently my wife and I competed in an event called Warrior Dash which is a 5K run mixed with an obstacle course. http://www.warriordash.com/ The best part to most of these events is that there is also a charitable aspect of them. Some just donate a portion of entry fees but others take it a step further. For example, we had an opportunity to donate our sneakers after the warrior dash which would be cleaned and donated to developing countries. 
