If you are training for a big race: a half marathon, a full marathon or an ultra, it is tempting to skip races during your training cycle so you can complete all the weekend runs on your plan.
If you are not training, you also may feel that there’s no reason to race. You can just run for fun on the weekend (for free).
I have no half marathons on my scheduled until Sept. 12!
But check out my racing calendar:
-
- 04-25-26 – Bill Robinson Memorial 10k
- 05-02-26 – Tropicool 5k (new course)
- 05-17-26 – Boilermaker’s Erie Canal Race (10 miler)
- 05-24-26 – Miles on the Mohawk (10 miler)
- 06-06-26 – Mastercard NYC Mini 10k
- 06-20-26 – Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k
- 07-04-26 – Firecracker 4
- 07-12-26 – Boilermaker 15k
- 07-19-26 – Keep MOO’ving 5k
- 08-09-26 – Run for the Roses 5k
Here are my Reasons to Race Often:
- Races are more fun.
Running is supposed to be fun, right?
I don’t know about you, but I rarely have fun during my weekend runs. I get them done. Period.
The atmosphere before a race is inspiring and the feeling of accomplishment after a race is addicting.
- It’s a speed drill in disguise.
Even if you say that the race only a training run or you don’t care about your pace, most likely the enthusiasm and crowd support will have you running faster in a race than in your weekend run.
- Free water stops, porta-potties and post-run refreshments.
Ok, not free because you have to pay to run the race but you know what I mean.
It’s welcomed support before, during and/or after your run.
- You can practice race pace.
You may often run your weekend runs too fast or too slow.
Obviously it’s easier to practice “race pace” in a race.
- You connect with other runners and make new friends..
When I first started running, I had no running friends so I would race on the weekends.
Now I do have friends to run with on the weekend but I always enjoy meeting new runners.
Here are a few more reasons (though they are not mine):
- Bling
You get shiny medals.
- Add to your Running Wardrobe
You get new shirts, caps, jackets, etc.
Happy Running! Do you ever use a race as a training run? Do you race often? Why or why not? Please share.
Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).
and tomorrow:
I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs
My First 5K and More... 
Back when I was running several marathons a year I rarely raced any other distances and I wish I had. My training runs were always so much fun because I was doing them with my husband and/or friends, and often my best friend. We talked non-stop! LOL
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That’s true. It is fun to train with someone who is running the same race. If that were the case for me, I’d probably not run so many races.
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Well, I know I’ve said this before, but- leading up to my marathon PR (this was a long time ago) I raced every other weekend. This was when I was living in NYC, the races weren’t that expensive and they were pretty easy to get to- I just got on the subway. I didn’t do any other speedwork. And during this time I actually set all my PRs. Those were the good old days!!!!
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Not easy to get into those anymore.
But there are lots of races in Florida.
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This is where we disagree
I don’t find racing fun. The nerves get to me.
The chill ones are less bad, but still not a fan. To me they’re a sometimes necessary evil/reason to travel
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Don’t get me wrong. I do get nervous. But I enjoy the race atmosphere and especially seeing new places.
You could travel without a race, you know. LOL
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I don’t race often because of the logistics and cost. With the kids schedules my runs need to be done super early and I dont have time to do a race mid morning. I do think it would be beneficial to race a bit more to help me get used to the race day nerves, but right now it’s just not feasible. (Also, I love my solo runs and often find them way more enjoyable than a race!)
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Your situation makes sense to me. I have no responsibilities at home so it’s not hard to get out and go.
Fun doesn’t mean that I don’t get nervous. I do (no matter how many I’ve run.)
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All amazing reasons!
I try to do one race a month, plus one racecation a year. I think I will be able to get in more once A goes off to college, and I will probably capitalize on that. It is fun and I miss being part of a solid group of running people. Most of my running friends have quit, disbanded, or only run one or two events per year.
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I bet you will have more time to race when A is at college (if you choose.)
I probably race more now since many of my friends don’t run anymore. We need to do a race together… Savannah??
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I don’t race very often especially now that I’m dealing with a few health issues. I love the spirit though! I’ve volunteered or just hung out with my hubby when he announces and I do love the atmosphere.
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Can’t best the race atmosphere.
Hope you can race again soon
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