Running races can be a fun, motivating, and confidence-boosting experience, but some runners are hesitant to enter their first road race. If you need convincing, here are some reasons to run a race, whether it be a 5K, 10K, or other race distance.
1. You’ll stay motivated to run.
There’s nothing like a deadline to get you moving. Having a race date circled on your calendar is incredible motivation to keep running. On days when you don’t feel like running, you’ll think about how you’ll feel if you have to back out of the race or if you try to run it completely undertrained.
2. It will be thrilling.
Crossing the finish line of your first race will be something you’ll remember for a long time. And no matter how many races you’ve run, it’s still a huge rush to finish a race and celebrate your achievement.
And that feeling of excitement is addicting — many former couch potatoes have become hooked on the sport after training for their first road race.
3. You’ll get over your fears about running a race.
Nervous about running a race? You’re not alone. Many new runners are worried about things such as coming in last. Talk to other runners and you’ll realize that they worried about the same things, but were happy they took the plunge into the world of road racing.
Facing your fears and overcoming them will really give you a confidence boost as a runner.
4. Your training will have more structure.
If you’re the type of person who likes to follow a very specific schedule, you’ll love training for a race. Every day you’ll look at your training schedule to see what you need to do, whether it’s running, cross-training, or taking a complete rest day. (Yes, rest days are part of the training!)
5K Training Beginner Schedules:
- 4-Week Beginner 5K Training Schedule
- 6-Week Beginner 5K Training Schedule
- 8-Week Beginner 5K Training Schedule
5. You’ll meet other runners.
Races are a great way for the running community to come together. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other runners, whether it’s waiting on line at the porta-potties, training with a local running group, standing at the starting line, running in the race, or celebrating post-race.
6. You can support a cause.
Many races benefit charities and worthwhile causes, from disaster relief to fighting cancer or other diseases. Running for something that’s bigger than you and fundraising is a great way to stay motivated to keep training and can make your races even more meaningful and fulfilling.
7. You’ll get a T-shirt.
OK, so maybe you don’t need any more T-shirts, but the point is that you’re getting a little reward for your efforts. And wearing the race T-shirt can also show your pride as a runner and be a reminder of a fun race or your impressive performance. It may even spark some conversations with other runners that you meet at the gym, supermarket, or wherever else you’ll happen to be wearing your race T-shirt.
How Do I Find a Local Race to Run?
First, talk to other runners in your area to get recommendations for the best local road races to run. A basic Google search for “running races near me” is sure to turn up some popular road races in your area. You can also search on sites such as Active.com or look up your local running club to find out about their upcoming races.
Another way to find out about local running races is to ask the staff at your local running shop. They may have signs posted about upcoming races and may even offer some group training runs in preparation for an upcoming event.
More on What to Expect When Racing:
- How to Take Water from Aid Stations
- How to Deal With Crowds at Races
- Dealing With Pre-Race Jitters and Anxiety
- Common Racing Mistakes to Avoid
- Running Etiquette Rules for Racing
- 5K Training Tips
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
