Pros and Cons to Races

Feeling Racy? 

Pros and cons to entering into races in your community

Many beginner walkers/runners feel uneasy when it comes to signing up for races. I have to admit I was the same way. I would tell my self, "People who sign up for 5Ks and other races are crazy. Why would they pay... to run?". I stuck with this thinking for years and automatically counted out "signing up and paying" to run.   I had a change of thought in 2011 and proved myself wrong. My husband and I (along with support group Get Fit or Die Trying) took on the challenge of the Franklin Classic 5K and 10K last year. He successfully completed the 5K and I completed the 10K. My opinion is forever changed. 

Support Group :-)

Lets start with the PROS!

1. Supports various charities: The funds that you supply go toward a good cause!

2. Improves your community well-being: 'Community Well-being' is a concept that refers to an optimal quality of healthy community life. It encapsulates the ideals of people living together harmoniously in vibrant and sustainable communities. Its a great place to meet new faces and be around those who care about their health and the health of others. 

3. Holds you a bit more accountable to your exercise and diet regimen: The signing up and giving process is more like a commitment. Training in advance helps give you the much needed confidence to complete the race. On the days that you don't feel like training/working out you have that extra reason in your mind why you should go workout even though you don't feel like it. You are more likely to get up and go if you have committed to something. Your diet gets a little better just because you start to realize that eating fried chicken wings before going for a walk/run doesn't make you feel well :-/. You are more motivated to consume healthy foods that give you energy to help you get through your workouts and keep you on the road to success. 

4. Gives you a sense of accomplishment: After completing the race you thought you never could/would do, you feel so proud of yourself for starting something then finishing it. You feel proud of others who completed it with you as well.   

5. Getting Swag!: Lots of times you get free stuff before or after or before and after completing your race. I absolutely LOVE getting charity personalized tshirts/dri fit shirts. The charity personalized clothing are a good reminder of your accomplishment.  

6. Most are family and pet friendly events: Most races encourage walking with your baby/toddler in a stroller, getting your kids involved with fun activities, and taking your pet along.  

7. Running/Walking YOUR OWN race: The race is enjoyable for all individuals no matter the activity level. You can walk the whole race if you'd like or run the whole race at your fastest pace. The only key is finishing. I think this aspect of the race is absolutely wonderful. Everyone is able to run THEIR race. 

Now to the Con. 

1. Doing the research: Doing research before you train is important. Its important to know about the things that come along with starting a walking/running program. Knowing these things and applying them could help reduce the risk of injury. If you have any previous existing injuries or conditions, TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR before starting your exercise routine.


Ill add a race calendar for anyone who would like to sign up!