2010 Ron's Heart of Champions Race

Many churches and charity organizations across the country are starting to hold 5K runs. For example, once again, I participate in the Ron Winans Heart of Champions 5K Run in Detroit. It is an enjoyable and unforgettable weekend. Each year Pastor Marvin Winans of Perfecting Church gives his red carpet treatment all weekend long.

The run is a blast and well over 800 people participated, include Gospel Artist Bebe Winans and Biggest Loser Winner Pete Thomas. The course at Detroit’s Belle Isle Park is very scenic and challenging.

This brings me to my next point. I urge you to participate in a 5K run in your area. These runs are very popular and you will find that there is one held every weekend somewhere nearby.

Here are five benefits in getting involved and training for a 5K:

1. It will help with weight loss, fighting aging and disease, and with generally staying healthy.
2. It will give you confidence and build character. It will also relieve stress and boost your attitude.
3. It will allow you to enjoy the outdoors and create a release of endorphins that can cause euphoria (runner’s high), or just a general sense of happiness.
4. You will have a blast and experience a sense of accomplishment.
5. You will benefit your church, the community and its culture.

Training for a marathon or a triathlon is great, but it takes a lot of hard work, dedication and most importantly, a lot of time. If you are like most people, your time is very valuable, but at the same time working out and exercising is very important. That is why I suggest that you train for a 5K run.

Here are three reasons why I love training for a 5K race:
1. It does not take up a lot of your time - you run an average of only 13.5 miles per week.
2. It is less taxing on your body – It takes me a long time to recover after running a marathon. I can recover from a 5K in a day or two.
3. It is a way to track your progress – You can try to improve your time during every race.

If you follow a good 5K training program, I strongly feel you will be able to complete your first 5K and be clocked at a competitive time within eight weeks.

Are you ready to get started? I hope you are excited. Training for a 5K will give you confidence and character. It will also relieve the stress and boost your attitude. Get off to a running start!