Lace Up Your Running (or walking) Shoes This Spring

This week my fitness goals were totally thrown off track when I got sick. I haven't been able to walk around the house let alone run.  I had been working on the couch-2-5K plan. I had been walking and working out but my goal was to run a 5 K at the end of March.  I am pretty sure with this set back, I will be walking.  For me, having a race to train for and a charity to support help me to stay on track. If you are looking for an event that might inspire you to get fit, I have listed a few that will keep you working on your goals at least through June.

The first is the Boston Beanery 5K on March 18 at the Uniontown Mall in Uniontown PA.  This 5K is the first one that I ever ran.  That was 15 years ago! It has a special place in my heart because it supports families in need in my hometown and I saw first hand how the money really made a difference in people's lives through one of my first jobs at Community Action.

Then in late March check out the 2012 Miracle Bunny 5K Run/Walk on March 31 at Penn State Fayette Campus. This is the first year for this race that benefits the Miracle League of Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands--a baseball league for individuals with special needs.  It am partial to this race because I have both a nephew and a niece that play :)

If you want more of a challenge try the Yough River Trail 10 Mile Run 10K, 5K on the trail in Connellsville on April 7 or set your sights on the Mount Summit Challenge on April 22. This 3.5 mile race climbing up 1,200 feet along the National Road (Route 40) is a challenge for young and old alike. The Summit Race was a goal that I set for myself this year (not to run but walk this year) and unfortunately I am on call that weekend so a race is probably not a great idea. I haven't made a final decision so I may see you there!

If you are just starting, you might want to think about trying something in May.  Try the National Road Festival Chase The Wagon 5K on May 19.   You have plenty of time to start walking or running to be in shape for this race.   Or give yourself an extra two weeks and make the Point Marion Park 5K a family activity on May 27 and kick of a summer of fun and fitness.

While I know I won't be doing all of these events, my goal is to do a few.  I think they are a fun way to keep on track! Let me know if there are any other events or activities that might help me reach my fitness goals this spring!

**some of the links will take you to an email to request additional info if the race doesn't have its own web page.