With so many New Year's Resolutions to accomplish it's hard to pick just one to focus on, but the ever popular mantra to "Exercise More" notably comes back around year after year. With that, this Flagler Insider decided to take the initiative to figure out how to stop "wunning", a fun combination of walking & running and start really running. And I can't think of a better place to begin this lofty goal than right here in Flagler County.
Did you know that we have over 70 miles of trails here in Flagler? Between the cities, county and other interested parties, we have a variety of different pathways to becoming physically fit. The City of Palm Coast has even produced a new map of city parks and trails offering the incentive to "Trek it Out". And coming in the future a county wide trails map will be available so you can map out all of our 70+ miles of breathtaking trails. Not a trail runner? When the tide is right, running on the beach offers a view like no other and there are 19 miles of it to choose from!
There are even more reasons to lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement. The City of Palm Coast is hosting the first annual half marathon with the option of a 5k and fun run for those not yet prepared to put 13.1 miles on their feet in one day. The race begins at the Palm Coast Marina and winds through various trails with scenic views of the hardwood hammock and coastal preserves through Palm Coast. Want to sign up or learn more about it? Check out Visit Flagler or the City of Palm Coast for information on how to get involved.
Want a little more time before your first run? There are plenty to choose from this year with the Palm Coast Chamber's "Run for your Life" 5K/10k in March and the American Cancer Society's "Relay for Life" coming to Flagler Beach in April. A new race coming to the west end of Flagler County (think Korona and Favoretta) is presented by FL-Roc and will definitely change your perception of what a 5k is. This is a running obstacle challenge that includes hay bail hurdles, a mud leap, military wall and an overhead water pull. And that's only a sample of what they have planned for the day.
No matter which course you choose from, make sure you follow basic safety precautions prior to running:
- Wear running shoes – shoes made for running will have the padding and support you need before hitting the pavement.
- Stay hydrated – drink 6-8 oz. of water every 20 minutes for runs that last an hour or more.
- Stretch & Recover – you should not run every day while training for any race. Recovery and stretching are necessary.
- Pre-Train – Don't just jump into it. Find a pre-training routine that works for you by researching online or asking a trainer at the gym.
- Nutrition – Eating properly is crucial to training for any race. Carbohydrate and protein intake is key. Make a date with a nutritionist to plan your dietary goals for race training.
That's all for this insider! I'll see you out on the trails!
