Running Your First 5k

It was almost a year ago that I ran my first 5k: The Baypath Humane Society 5k for Paws and Claws.

I randomly decided I wanted to get into running - I had never done it before in my life. I was a band geek in high school, and I never had an athletic bone in my body.

Why did I want to run? I have no idea. But I wanted to. So I approached a friend and said, "You know what? I want to run a half marathon." He replied, "Why don't you try 5k first and see how it goes?" What a practical suggestion.

I found a cause I was passionate about - helping homeless animals - and I hit the pavement. But still, I feel like nothing I could have done in practice would have really prepared me for what race day would feel like.

Here are some times for enjoying and getting the most out of your first 5k.

• Do not slack off on training for this run. What you get out is what you put in. If you remain faithful to your training, it will reward you in the end.
• Run your own race. Don't worry about running someone else's race or making sure you are in the front of the crowd, keeping up with people who have been running for years. Take it easy. Don't worry about your time for your first 5k. Your only goal should be to finish and to feel great about yourself.
• Anxiety happens at the beginning of almost every race - just know how to handle it with relaxation breathing and positive self-talk. Tell yourself, "I will finish this race."
• If you don't have the best race in the world, don't get discouraged. Everyone has good days and bad days, and sometimes your practice just doesn't translate during a race. Keep at it and you will get better. Let those around you inspire you and serve as an example of what you could be if you worked really hard.

So, are you ready to take that step? Here are a list of local 5ks that allow both runners and walkers. These races are great because there is no pressure and they're all for a great cause.

• Race for Ryan's Cup on Sept. 19 in Chelmsford *
• Free to Breathe 5k on Sept. 26 in Chelmsford +
•  Father Bullock 5 Mile Road Race and 2 Mile Walk on Oct. 2 in Gloucester *
• 7th Annual Grace Race on Oct. 9 in Chelmsford
• Tufts 10K for Women on Oct. 11 in Boston *
• 3rd Annual Tyngsborough Trot 5K Run/Walk for Education on Oct. 16 in Tyngsborough

* = I will be running the race

+ = I will be volunteering at the race.

See you on the pavement!