National Running Day...Grab a Friend and Go!

It is National Running day! Runners everywhere declare their passion for running today, and of course Black Girls RUN! is yelling to the top of our lungs, WE LOVE TO RUN! Wherever you are, no matter what speed you run make sure you get out and run today. From the National Running Day web site: "It is a coast-to-coast celebration of a sport and activity that’s simple, inexpensive and fun. It’s the perfect way for longtime runners to reaffirm their love of running and for beginners to kick off a lifetime and life-changing commitment." National Running Day FAST FACTS The typical American runner… Is one of nearly 43 million in the U.S. Is just over 41 years old and has been running for 13 years Runs an average of 26.1 miles each week Americans are running all over the place. In the last 10 years… 48% more people are running and jogging 38% more people are running and walking on treadmills 16% more people are trail running Americans Love to Compete More than 500,000 people finished a marathon in the U.S. in 2010. More than half of the nation’s runners want to run a 5K, 10K, half-­‐marathon, and marathon this year. The half-­‐marathon is the nation’s fastest growing—and most popular—race. More than 5 million people finished a half-­‐marathon in the last 5 years. American teens are racing in record numbers. Last year more than 1.5 million high school students ran competitively for their schools. Top Reasons to Run Most men and women run to stay in shape, stay healthy, relieve stress, and have fun Running helps combat stress, emotional strain, and mild depression. Regular runners tend to be happier than their more sedentary peers. Running during old age reduces disability and contributes to a lower mortality rate. At National Running Day you can also find 10 Ways to Celebrate Your Passion and 10 Tips for New Runners. Happy Running Today! -BGR

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