A water cooler topic that starts popping up at this time of year is fun run. For some, fun runs are an annual ritual and are very much enjoyed, but for many of us the thought of running, or even walking several kilometres is no fun at all!
Personal trainer, Mel Heaton, believes too many excuses are made for not signing up to such events. “Unless you have a condition preventing you from exercising, there is no reason why you shouldn’t get involved,” he says.
Many beginners are amazed at how quickly they make progress, and how their exercise commitments turn from being a burden to a pleasure remarkably quickly. “Those who undertake the right preparation for fun runs often find them easier than they expected, both the training and the event itself,” Mel says.
Why get involved?
Not only is it an excellent way of keeping the kilos off during the winter months, there are a number of personal benefits you can enjoy:
- A significant personal achievement
- Improved fitness and sense of wellbeing
- Opportunity to meet new friends
- Helps prevent a variety of chronic medical conditions
- Promotes better mental health and can help to reduce stress
- Money goes towards charity
There are two key aspects to preparing yourself for an event like a fun run.
Set a goal
Having a goal is key. The most common reason for people losing focus with their training is that they do not have a specific and achievable goal. Once you’ve got your goal, put it up somewhere you can see everyday as a constant reminder of why you signed up.
Training schedule
Next, a training schedule needs to be prepared. This is personal and will depend on your individual fitness level. The key is to keep it interesting so you don’t lose motivation, and to stick to it! For those of you who like to set out on your own training program, Run.com ( maps out a number of excellent running routes all over the world, including over 400 routes around Australia. Alternatively, if you are just getting started it might be wise to use a personal trainer or join a training group. Most major cities have 8 - 10 week training groups dedicated specifically to the upcoming fun runs. They cater for all ages and fitness levels and can be a more enjoyable way of training for the big day.
Fun runs across the country…
- Adelaide – City – Bay Fun Run, Sunday 19 September
- Brisbane – Bridge to Brisbane, Sunday 29 August
- Canberra – Times Fun Run, Sunday 13 September
- Darwin – City to Surf, Sunday 6 June
- Melbourne – Run Melbourne, Sunday 18 July
- Perth – City to Surf, Sunday 29 August
- Sydney – City to Surf, Sunday 8 August
If you’re a first timer giving it a go, we would love to hear from you!. Please email us at marketing@homeloans.com.au and tell us your story! Happy training!