By: CALI SKARET, Lake Voice Marathons sound like a great idea, until you actually have to run one.
First of all, it takes a ridiculous amount of time to train for a marathon. Like, almost a year if you do it the right way. That’s commitment, my friends.
It also takes your body a long time to recover after running a full marathon, so plan to not be able to walk normally for a couple days after.
Marathons can be very expensive if you run them frequently as well.
Grandma’s marathon is a huge event in Duluth. Not only do people come from all over the state, but they also come from all over the world to partake in the festivities that Grandma’s Marathon has to offer. And though this event is a great way for Duluth to gain attraction, it only happens once a year.
Throughout the calendar year, there are over 100 5k’s within 25 miles of the Duluth area. That’s a lot of opportunity to stay healthy and for Duluth to gain attraction. Although these 5ks are not as popular as Grandma’s Marathon, they still offer an opportunity for Duluth’s small businesses to gain attraction.
Most people who run marathons only run one or two a year because of the strain it puts on your body. So, running a 5k lets you do what you love to do— actually run in a race more than once or twice a year.
5k’s are also less straining on your body than marathons, so you’ll actually be able to enjoy your day in Duluth after running a race rather than limping around to see how beautiful of a city it is.
Running in a 5k is actually a great way to stay in shape because the training isn’t as demanding, but it still makes you get up and run.
Runnersworld.com is a great way to help you find a training schedule that perfectly suits your training style. And if you’re completely new to this whole 5k idea, try watching this YouTube video about how to start up running safely.
By signing up for a race, you hold yourself responsible for following through and actually running the race you signed up for. You can also use 5ks as a way to challenge yourself if you run them frequently. Try to better yourself each time you race, time yourself and try to beat your personal record.
These 3.1 mile races are way less expensive than registering to run a marathon.
According to esquire.com, marathons cost about $94 on average. This does not include expenses like running gear, lodging, and travel. So, the cost of a marathon can add up fairly quickly.
5ks cost $20 on average and you usually get a free t-shirt, and who wouldn’t want a free t-shirt?
Avid 5k runners also form a little sense of community by running in these races. Frequent runners can train together, race together and celebrate together.
So, if you live near Duluth, consider running in a couple 5ks next time because you get to do more of what you love and you’ll meet people who love to do the same thing as you.