Distance: 5K

You can raise money doing them. You can race for beer in them. You can have color thrown at you during them. Zombies can chase you during them. These are all variations on a 5K race. Clearly the 5K is the most popular distance to race.

Most people don't have the desire run long distances, but a 5K has challenges all its own. For most runners the 5K is about speed not endurance. The distance is perfect to sustain a faster pace than a 10K or longer races. It's a distance that is perfectly suited for most of us. We can get a good run in, and take all day doing it.

The 5K is a terrific way for people to get int running. Around the country millions of people are doing Couch to 5K programs. I have coached such programs. They easily and slowly show people how to build the stamina and endurance to not just run, but complete a 5K. I love coaching these folks. Once they have run their very first mile, the smiles show me they have accomplished something. Crossing the finish line at your first 5K is also a thrill. You see very happy people celebrating something they never thought they could do.

For most people 5Ks are the only distance they want to run, and that is fine. Nothing wrong with sticking with a distance, especially if you are working to improve on it. So many runners don't understand what their bodies can take and sometimes try to achieve some things too quickly. I ran 5Ks for about a year until I wanted to challenge myself at longer distances. Many though want to just do 5Ks. I say GREAT!!!

Charlie