Global Running Day
Global Running Day is an international observance, celebrated every year on the first Wednesday in June. This day commemorates the sport of running and encourages people to get up and go for a run, no matter the distance.
It is to inspire them to start leading a more active lifestyle. Everyone is invited to join in, and anyone can do it. It is free, and all you need is running shoes, some water, and to submit your name on the Global Running Day website so that your pledge is accounted for.
Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner who is just taking their first steps, you are welcome to join in on one of the many running events happening on this day across the country. As an alternative, you can also just go out for a solo game.
Even children are invited to participate. The Million Kid Run is the youth division of Global Running Day. It aims to get young people excited about exercise and teach them that being active is fun.
Global Running Day History
This day was originally known as National Running Day and was created by the New York Road Runners organization in the United States. The first event happened in 2009 and it was a success. This inspired organizers to take it to an international level and in 2016 they renamed the event Global Running Day.
Global Running Day was first celebrated on June 1, 2016, with 2.5 million people from 177 countries pledging to run 9.2 million miles. People who take part on this day are asked to share what inspires them to run. Most of the answers given are related to staying healthy and fit, enjoying nature, or training for a marathon.
The Benefits of Running
Running for even just 5 minutes a day could help keep you healthy! Many studies show that there are infinite benefits to running, and you don't even need to do it every day or for a long time or distance.
- People who run tend to live longer than those who don't. Even running once a week can add 3 years to your life. To add to this, the years you do live are much healthier and more productive because you're staying active.
- Running also helps reduce stress, improves mental health, and helps you sleep better. Physically, it improves bone strength, lowers the risk of diabetes, reduces blood pressure, and can even prevent some cancers.
- Running helps with weight loss by burning calories. Thus, it is an effective exercise to manage your weight.
- It is also a fun exercise! If you run outside you get to be in nature or get to know the area where you live in better. While some prefer to run alone, there are many running groups that get together to run where you can meet new people and make lifelong friendships.
So, why not join in on the Global Running Day celebrations and enjoy all these benefits?
Celebrate Global Running Day
Regardless of age or ability, everyone is encouraged to participate on this day by running or just staying active. Look up one of the many Global Running Day events happening today, and join one near you. Don't forget to pledge a distance on the official website so that your effort counts!
If you're a beginner at running you can gradually start doing it, either on your own or by joining a running group for motivation. Regular runners can celebrate by training for a big marathon, or by just doing their normal routine. Don't forget to get your kids involved, if you have them.
