Watch Out for Santas!

I like to run.
I don't necessarily like the actual running so much as I like the sense of completion I get from finishing a run. One of my favorite things about the winter are 5K's. I know it sounds loony. Give me a moment to defend myself..
It is COLD in these parts in December, January, February, March, and often April... but that doesn't mean you can't go enjoy working up a sweat outside, it just means that you (and race directors) have to get a little creative. The first awesome thing about races (besides staying healthy): most, if not all races support a great cause. Secondly: obviously, you've got to keep your body warm! Wear a hat, and some gloves (fingerless is fine). A scarf might make you overheat if you get above a jog but it's certainly allowed. If you're someone who tends to get cold and stay cold, a one-piece costume is never a bad idea. The lack of seams/holes between layers will keep all that body heat in! The closer you get to the holidays, the more likely you are to see Santa Hats, Elves, reindeer antlers and the like showing up on race participants.
There's a decent chance you've even heard of a Santa Run (where everyone dresses up like Santa or Mrs.Claus... Philly certainly has a version or two, but this pic from New Zealand is pretty darn awesome :)

I suppose I do like running a little bit. Especially on really beautiful sunny days, spring, summer, fall, or winter.
If you're a runner, an occasional runner, or a brave/curious first-timer, there are plenty of local runs coming up this month. Jump in one! Grab a friend. You can walk, jog, run, skip, or combine any of those options. See the short list below, and just google any of 'em for more info or more runs! Remember, it doesn't EVER hurt to dress up in something silly to make a run more fun.
We all wore ridiculously bright colors to this West Chester race (pictured below), but we forgot to actually document it so you get a picture of us post-race in our sparkly clean shirts instead.

Happy running!

Jingle Bell 5K's on December 10th and 11th in Philadelphia support the Arthritis Foundation
Kris Kringle 5 Miler December 18th in Reading
Northeast Roadrunner's Christmas Is For Giving 5K December 18th
Patriots' Run 5K on December 31st
New Year's Eve 5K on December 31st