Sunday, July 22, 2012

Have fun while you run!

I am so happy to see that so many adults have started running recently. Before I ran my first 5K, I never would have believed people would actually pay to run! It's a fad that I think is here to stay, at least among people my age, and especially because most of them are charity-based.


20 K or 1 mile run supporting music in schools...started by a teacher in mine!



Several teachers I know in different school districts have also become involved with Girls on the Run. It's geared towards helping girls gain self esteem, especially those who don't particularly like playing competitive team sports. Click on the picture or button to learn more.






As for the adults, here are some of the awesome opportunities you have to get in shape and set a good exercise example for those kids around you. My friends and I have participated in several of them. Many of them are charity-based, and they're a great excuse to travel, too!







Celebrate every kilometer you run with a dash of color! 
Kids really enjoy volunteering to help with this one.









This race helps raise money for research and treatment of childhood diseases at St. Jude's Research Hospital. The best part is...you get a Viking Warrior helmet!






Disney Princess Runs


The good thing is that you can choose between different races, like a 5K, half marathon, or marathon. Some women even run in princess costumes! Proceeds go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Must be 14 to run.






Support the Wounded Warrior Project while running 10-12 miles though obstacle courses! Prepare to get muddy!








Garmin Oz Marathon


These races take place in the Land of Oz...Kansas!




Spartan Race




You'll definitely get battered in this one, but proceeds go to Homes for our Troops.








Great Urban Race


Teams of 2 follow clues to 12 different sites throughout a city. Examples of past clues include: Greek dancing lessons, learning how to surf, Segway riding, Tae Kwon Do lessons, bicycle racing, fish wrangling, anagrams, cryptograms, etc. Proceeds go to St. Jude's Research Hospital. Must be 14 or older to race. Prizes are awarded for costumes.




You literally run in your pajamas to raise money for cancer treatment and research!







This race supports the Ronald McDonald House charity. You're gonna need that hot chocolate - because these races take place in winter!








Who doesn't like to run to music?! This one supports a bunch of charities too!





Two of my personal favorites...

Leave your footprint on the Yankee Stadium warning track and help to stomp out cancer!




What better way to end a 5K than running into the end zone of the SuperBowl Champion New York Giants?!


...and there are TONS more races, especially Santa Runs, Turkey Trots, St. Patty's races, and even Halloween Halves!



What are you waiting for?