The 5(k) Fun Runs Worth the Time & Money
If you are anything like me, then enjoying this gift called “life” is high on your priority list; and staying in shape and healthy plays a big part in that. So why not make good on both at the same time? In order to help you do just that, I have compiled a list of the top 5ks Adventure Races (or Fun Runs) around town. When you weigh in the health benefit coupled with the immersive entertainment, I have a hard time understanding why you wouldn’t want to try one out. Also, you should know that the majority of these races funnel their profits into respectable charities. TIP: Usually these events will let you volunteer and then race for free (or at least for a discount).
1. FoamGlow
The Gist: You get all dressed down into your favorite all white ensemble, only to get totally blasted in multi-colored foam (100% non-toxic so you can eat it if you prefer…but you probably wont want to). Your once white and dry t-shirts, now blare bright neon glow under the millions of black lights scattered along the 3 mile flat terrain. Upon reaching the finish line your greeted with music, food and festivities – I’m into it. The Charity; Children’s Miracle Network *Coming to Atlanta on May, 7th 2016
The Website
The Video
2.Rugged Maniac
The Gist: From personal experience, this particular Mud Run beats out other ones in its respective dirty genre. Here’s why; the Rugged Maniac It not only unbelievably fun, it has the most obstacles (25+), very reasonable pricing, and plenty of beer! Not to mention the iconic 50′ water slide at the end, which is pretty impressive. The Charity: None specified. *Coming to Atlanta on August, 8th 2016
The Website
The Video
3. The Color Run
The Gist: This year the fun is all about tropical colors and scents? Yes scents. Perhaps one of the most recognized 5ks in the entire country has upgraded its flair by adding, not only booms of tropical colored paint but also, island-style scents. I guess you don’t have to worry about that sweaty smell after the race! Also at the “Finish Festival” the runners get to explore an interactive island called Rainbow Beach. I have to admit, I am intrigued. The Charity; Various; over 3million in donations since 2012 *Coming to Atlanta on April, 2nd 2016
The Website
The Video
4. Insane Inflatables
The Gist: So this one is pretty straight forward right? There’s lots of light-hearted fun to be had here tackling the gigantic inflatables and most definitely embarrassing yourself at some point. The great thing about the Insane Inflatables 5k is, unlike the aforementioned, is that you don’t have to get your vehicle washed and detailed after the event! The Charity; American Cancer Society *Coming to Atlanta April, 9th 2016
The Website
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5. ZombieRun
The Gist: In this 5k (which I’m told, can actually end up a lot more like a 7 or 10k) you’re not just running against the clock, you’re actually immersed in a post-apocalyptic environment. With a flag-football belt representing your life-lines; the goal is to survive, or maintain at least one flag, until the finish line. To make things even more interesting, the ZombieRun is not flat terrain, it is littered with obstacles and multiple routes! The Charity: None specified. *Coming to Atlanta Oct, 29th 2016
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Electric Run*
*Honorable mention ( because they cant give me a straight answer regarding Atlanta’s participation this year.)
Gist: I thoroughly enjoyed myself at this run, and would love to do it again this year (hint hint). The theatrics with this event are awe-inspiring and you couldn’t ask for a better crowd. Moreover, the Electric Run most likely wins the award for the best music and post-celebration out of all of the 5ks. The event is wrapped around EDM, but I would say that the artistic aspect of this event is much more profound than the even the music. The Charity; “Local Charities” *Coming to Atlanta ????
The Website
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If you were looking to see which run to invest your time and money into this year, I hope this has been helpful. However, if you have never done a run like these before, I really encourage you to do so, there is nothing quite like the physical and emotional gratification that comes with completing one of these races. It is definitely something that you will always remember.