The Twin Cities running community is a hearty crew that is active year round.
There are a number of different benefits, which an individual can gain from running on a regular basis. There are some runners who run simply for the joy of running but there are others who run because they realize there are a great deal of benefits.
Runners know the long list of health benefits associated with running. Running benefits both the mind and the body. Experts say that running improves respiratory health, reduces risk of stroke, reduces blood pressure, slows bone loss and even slows the aging process.
Most runners also know that running with others, or in a running club, is more fun than running alone.
In addition to the personal health benefits and the joy of running with a friend or if you are lucky, a group of friends, the Twin Cities also hosts some of the most beautiful road races along our many parks and lakes.
I will add one additional community benefit—running for a cause.
There are close to as many cause related and/or charity races as there are days in a Minnesota summer: races for older adults, to get kids moving, to celebrate historic events and founding settlers. My favorite races don’t take the running part of the event too seriously and encourage costumes and whimsy.
The Susan G. Komen breast cancer awareness run Mother’s Day has raised millions for breast cancer awareness, education, outreach, screening, preliminary treatment and research.
Now that we are finally into some nice Minnesota weather I encourage you to find a race and be a part of the local running scene. A great place to search race events postings is www.active.com.
The local Get Your Rear In Gear race is May 22 in Edina.
