Running is the easiest and cheapest way to stay in shape. Now that the spring warmth is finally here, everyone is out and about in their new sneakers and fun running clothes. While it’s totally fine to jog around for light exercise or for fun, choosing a new race distance is a great way to keep you motivated and excited about getting outside and moving your legs.
5K
If you’re a human with any desire at all to run, you are practically ready to run a 5K. A 5K is a 3.1 mile race, and you can find one in your area almost every weekend from April to October. A quick Google search will unearth tons of Couch-to-5K plans that slowly build you up from walking for 20 minutes to running continuously for 3.1 miles. Following one of these plans can make running a regular part of your exercise routine, and signing up for a race will motivate you to lace up those sneakers while you’re still trying to make it a habit.
10K
If you’ve been running consistently for 2-3 months and feel comfortable running 3 miles, a 10K is right in your wheelhouse. 10Ks measure 6.2 miles, and while they are harder to find than 5Ks, they are really the perfect distance for feeling accomplished without dedicating most of your life to training. An 8 week training plan should get you ready for race day. Just make sure you find one that gets you up to at least 5 or 6 miles before race day.
Half Marathon
Have you been consistently running for a few months and you really want a shiny race medal? Time for a half! Half marathons have exploded in popularity in the last few years, so you should have no problem finding a fun one to set your sights on.
You probably want to commit to a 10-12 week training plan. Ideally, that plan will slowly build you up to a ten mile long run, and adrenaline and excitement will carry you for the last 3.1.Marathon
If you’ve been running consistently for a year, you’re looking for a huge mental and physical challenge and you are ready to devote a lot of your free time to running, it might be time to consider a marathon. Training for a marathon is a huge commitment, and it’s not something you should decide to do too soon in your running career. If you’re ready for it, though, there really is no better feeling than crossing the finish line after 26.2 miles of racing and four months of hard work.
5 Mile, 15K, & 7 Mile
Races at these distances are few and far between, so chances are you haven’t toed the line for one of these, even if you’ve been racing for a long time. Give yourself a much deserved mental boost by signing up for one of these less common distances and set an automatic personal best time.
Wherever you are in your running journey, there is a race out there for you! And once you finish your first one, the racing bug will be hard to keep at bay, and you’ll find yourself with a drawer full of fun t-shirts and cute medals.
Feature Photo via We Heart It