How are you doing on your New Year’s resolution(s)? Whether you resolved to lose weight, be more active or try something new, one way to motivate in the third and fourth months of the year may be to take part in a local or regional 5K race.
Most of the 5K events in the City include walkers and runners. A 5K course is 3.1 miles (“K” stands for “kilometer,” which is equal to 0.62 of a mile). Typically, these races are family-friendly and include an option for kids. They also often allow jogging strollers (check with the event host to confirm).
Just signing up and getting on a 5K course can be a healthy move that’s not overly intimidating, said Westerville Parks & Recreation Fitness Manager Mike Herron.
“One of the great things about a 5K is that they are pretty accessible to most people. Even if you’re not conditioned to run it, there are usually plenty of walkers,” he said. “At an average pace, you can walk a standard 5K in a little more than an hour. And what a great way to commit to something that will keep you moving toward a finish line for that amount of time.”
With Westerville’s expansive parks system, 5Ks are popular and plentiful in Westerville. And there are several websites that list 5K events throughout central Ohio and across the state. Do a simple website search to view options.
March/April Westerville 5K Events:
Pi Day 5K
Saturday, March 8
Course: Alum Creek Park North
Hosted by Premier Races
Benefits Teaching & Learning Collaborative
Bunny Hop 5K
Saturday, April 19
Course: Alum Creek Park North
Hosted by Westerville Parks & Recreation
Benefits Westerville Parks Foundation
(See Story)
