You don’t have to be Forrest Gump to just feel like running. And what better day to put on your sneakers and get going than June 5 — Global Running Day?
Celebrated on the first Wednesday of June, Global Running Day is “a worldwide celebration of running that encourages people of all ages and abilities to get moving,” according to its website. From pros to weekend warriors, anyone and everyone is urged to take part.
It began in the U.S. in 2009 and was known as National Running Day. By 2016 it became Global Running Day, with 2.5 million people from 177 countries pledging to run 9.2 million miles. It also marked the first-ever Million Kid Run, which aimed to have a million children around the world pledge to run on June 1.
While you may think that running is a solitary sport, and it can be, it also brings with it a sense of community.
These days, people are getting up and out to improve not only their physical but also mental health. Runners tend to live longer and have a lower risk for cardiovascular disease and cancer than nonrunners, according to research. In addition, running can reduce stress, help with depression and anxiety and even provide mental clarity.
So, get up off the couch, put on your running shoes and get moving. What do you have to lose? Except maybe a few pounds and whatever is weighing heavily on your mind.
Visit globalrunningday.org