Fun runs have drastically changed throughout the years. Today, they are truly fun, involving crazy themes and charities instead of just running. Such efforts attempt to bring family and friends together in an outdoor setting.
Benefits of participating in a fun run range from improved mental and physical health to supporting various causes in our communities. The runs are meant for all ages and athletic abilities. Instead of just running, people are encouraged to walk, jog or in some cases take on obstacles.
These events promote quality time with family and friends. Whether you sign up to walk together or train for months to run together, fun runs are a great way to connect with each other outdoors and cheer each other on. They give family and friends time away together from work, school and other responsibilities. In many cases, you can even meet new people along the way.
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Fun runs are good for the mind and body. Whether you walk, jog or run, you are aiding in muscle and bone strength. Activity is also good for your brain. It decreases stress and aides in energy output, which in turn can help you sleep better. This is especially true when one trains leading up to a race.
Fun runs come in many distances with 5K ( 3.1 miles), being the most popular. However, some runs are 1 mile and some can go up to 12K (nearly 8 miles) such as our local Lilac Bloomsday Run.
Today’s fun runs come in many themes. Locally, runs include the Bubble Run, Color Run, Dirty Dash and even the Super Hero Run. These interactive runs will have you smiling along the way.
As for the charitable races, the Susan B Komen breast cancer awareness race is well known and a national charity. Local charity runs and walks range from ALS awareness to suicide prevention. These runs are a great way to meet people and donate to those in need.
So, if you haven’t yet tried a fun run, get online and sign up for one. Every year, new runs are added while some are moved to other locations. The best plan is to do your research and find the ones that work for you. Leave yourself a little training time, if possible. N
By Diana Okon
Photography By Jeff Ferguson
