Our country has a lot of goofy commemorative days. For example, did you know yesterday was National Rocky Road Day? A new observance taking place today though will be a lot better for your health.
Today is National Running Day, and several organizations (including the Chicago Area Runners Association) are making an effort to promote running as "a healthy, easy, and accessible form of exercise." The initiative is a response to the country's pressing health issues.
"Everyone can run. That's the message of this day," said New York Road Runners president and CEO Mary Wittenberg. "As an industry, we know firsthand how great running is. Millions of Americans have discovered that running is an easy way to feel better, look better, and live better."
Runners can visit the National Running Day website to download a Facebook button, interact with other runners, and find information on events taking place across the country.
The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) will hold their run in Grant Park at 6 p.m. Gear check will be available on-site, and staff and volunteers will offer support to runners of all experience levels.
Running specialty store Universal Sole and sportswear company Mizuno are hosting a 3-to-5-mile run at the store (3052 N Lincoln Ave) at 6:30 p.m. The event is followed by pizza, beer, and raffle prizes.
For more information on Chicago area events, visit the CARA website.
Health
Matt Bartosik, editor of Off the Rocks' next issue, often runs... when the ice cream truck speeds away.
