> FAQ

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How can I be involved in National Running Day?

It’s easy—just go for a run! If you’ve never run before, June 2 is the perfect day to start. There’s no minimum distance required. It’s a good idea to wear running shoes for your run—but if you don’t have running shoes, a pair of walking shoes or cross-training shoes will do for a short run. Ask a friend to run with you, or find a group of runners in your area. The more, the merrier.

I’ve never run before—where should I go?

One of the best things about running is that you can do it just about anywhere: at a track, on the roads (run facing traffic, stay to the side, obey all street signs and stop lights, and use common sense), on sidewalks or footpaths, in your local park, or on a treadmill.

How can I hook up with other runners?

Find a running club in your area by visiting USA Track & Field's website to find a list of over 2,000 clubs in your local association or visit the Road Runners Club of America website. If no club exists, consider starting one—the RRCA site offers tips for starting a club. Visit your local YMCA/YWCA, health club or fitness facility, or running retailer and ask about running classes or groups. And keep your eyes open for other runners—most runners are delighted to meet and run with other people.

Is it okay to walk instead of run?

YES! In fact, for many people—such as those who do not participate in any other sport, or who are overweight—brisk walking is safer than running. Try going to your local track and walking half a lap, then running the second half, for two to four laps. On National Running Day, any activity “counts” and can help inspire other people to get moving along with you.

What constitutes a run—is just once around the track okay?

There are no minimum requirements for taking part in National Running Day. On June 2, it’s just all about getting moving. Running or walking once around an outdoor track—in most cases, this is a quarter of a mile—is a great way to take part. The point is to have fun and to inspire other people to join you.

How can I run with my kids?

Kids and running are a great combination, and it’s never too early to start. Most kids do lots of “running around” each day. The best kid-based running programs harness kids’ natural energy and keep running fun and interesting. If you plan to take your kids running, remember that safety comes first—ideally, kids should run on a sidewalk or footpath (not in the road), in a park, on a track, or indoors. Don’t “make” kids run—when they say they’re done, the run is over—but try to encourage them to run a bit more—to the next light pole or traffic light—after walking a bit. Carry a water bottle and even some healthy snacks.

I want to get my elderly mother/father to run—is it safe? What do you recommend?

Running is a wonderful activity for people of all ages. It’s recommended that anyone starting for the first time (or after a long layoff), especially over the age of 40, have a medical physical first. If an elderly person hasn’t run before, it’s probably best to start with a program of brisk walking or a combination of running and walking. Have your elderly parent or friend join you on a walk or a jog/walk combination on Running Day—and then keep up the practice! Running is a proven way to reduce your risk of life-threatening diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

What if safety is a concern outside of my neighborhood—where can I run instead?

Many places that you might not think are safe for running actually can be made safe by taking certain steps:
• Run with a partner or group, or with your dog on a leash.
• Run during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must run before sunrise or after sunset, wear reflective clothing or bright colors, and carry a small flashlight or wear a headlamp.
• If you run on the roads, run facing traffic, stay as far to the side as you can, obey all street signs and stop lights, and use common sense.
• Tell someone at home that you’re going running, what your route will be, and when you expect to return.
• Don’t wear visible jewelry, and leave your iPod at home. If you carry a cell phone, keep it hidden.
• If you do feel unsafe during your run, turn around and run back to a well-lit, populated area.
• If you have access to a gym, running on the treadmill is a great alternative to hitting the roads, particularly when inclement weather makes running outside a challenge.

How do I let people know that I ran on National Running Day?

The best place to connect with a community of runners is via the National Running Day social media resources. Visit the national website at www.runningday.org for links to our various groups.

How can I support the goals behind the National Running Day movement?

National Running Day is a national grassroots movement that is open to everyone. The goal of the day and the movement is to promote running as the healthiest, easiest, and most accessible form of exercise. The organizers of National Running Day will be working to educate people about the benefits of running and enable them to get started running today. There are many ways to get involved. The most important, of course, is to simply go for a run on June 2, and to encourage your friends to run with you. Wear your running shoes all day long, and if anyone asks, tell them about your run, National Running Day, and all the things you love about running. You can also hook up with other runners in your community through a local running club or group. If you have a great time on National Running Day, think about how you can make running a regular part of your life.