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. 
Wow! Thats really cool; I had no idea there were so many 5k races around; once a week! I also love to run and struggle with getting stuck in a rot at the gym. I find it hard to run outside though, but maybe because I just don't have anywhere I'm interested in running. Maybe with the motivation of actually being in a race I will be able to make it to the finish line. Thank you! This might just be for me :).
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I love the idea of donating sneakers after the race. I tend to do a few charity 5Ks a year. Such a good excuse to donate some money, go for a run and usually socialize with some friends afterward. My kids even get a kick out of it. For more local races check out: http://www.coolrunning.com/index.shtml
ReplyDeleteLove this post. I am always bored when I am running on the tredmil and always wanting to stop even when I feel like I can run a lot more. I have done 2 races in the last 2 months and I have easily done them, becuase of my music and becuase it was outside and there was a ton of people running it. I feel like when you run in a race you are more modivated to stay running. Thanks for the tips!!
ReplyDeleteAwsome post. I love to run as well, but only outside because i think tredmills are the most boring piece of equipment to use. I do not normally do races, but i would love to try something like the warrior one you and your wife participated in.
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