Health and Fitness

After deciding to register for the Scotiabank Waterfront half marathon, here in Toronto this year, I spent a summer in training. I was excited, nervous and now that it is all said and done, I recommend trying a race to anyone! I can't even begin to describe how happy I was to finish nearly thirty minutes sooner than my original estimated time. It's an accomplishment I will remember for the rest of my life.

Here is a list of ten great reasons why you should try a race this year:

1. Healthy pressure to train with a purpose.

You pay a fee to be in, you tell everyone you know, and you have a deadline. If that's not motivating, I don't know what is!

2. It's for a good cause.

Runs are for a charitable cause. You ask friends and family to sponsor you. The fundraising will go to the charity you are running for. There are many events this summer for The Heart and Stroke Foundation, breast cancer, prostate cancer, the zoo. Whether the illness effects someone close to you, or you just want to help out, it's a great reason to be involved.

3. Meeting like-minded athletes.

It is fun to join running clinics to train, or get on forums to discuss training techniques and to exchange race day recipes. Meeting new people with similar interests is very positive, and life-enriching.

4. It's an experience.

We all need life experiences to grow, and change for the best. Even though I ran 10k every morning, running an official 10k race (and hitting all three of my race day goals!) really made me feel good. It was a great experience, and one I still talk about as a positive moment in my life.

5. Work on your perseverance.

Training your body will also train, and change the way your mind works. Long distance running involves tough self-love, mental stamina, and focus. Being able to push through your plateaus, stomp through your mental obstacles and come out of it as a better runner, will improve your perseverance in all areas of self.

6. You get to try/buy cool stuff.

Really, you don't need anything more than a good pair of shoes and a hearty breakfast to run a race but it sure is fun to experiment with new training equipment, clothing, and accessories. Plus, the race organizers give out finishing medals, time chips, food and drink samples, and all sorts of goodies.

7. You get in fabulous shape!

You're training to run a race. Of course you will lose weight and tone up!

8. Cross training will expose you to new exercise routines that will improve runs, and physique.

Training for a race is much more than a morning run. You must train your core, your legs, shoulders and develop a great stretch routine. Having all of the fitness components included in your training regimen will result in a killer body!

9. Improve cardiovascular and respiratory functioning.

Running improves your heart and lungs. It lowers your resting heart rate and in general, greatly improves your overall health.

10. IT'S FUN!

We all need fun, and what better way then getting out there and finishing your race. The idea of the after race reward, whether it's a massage, lunch with other participants, or the simple fact that you did it, ends the training journey on a positive and exciting note!

Even if you have never ran in your life, don't dismiss the idea of running or walking a race this year. It's an unforgettable experience filled with ups, and downs but in the end, extreme feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Try It!