Do You runDisney?

What do you think of when you think of Disney? Do you think movies? Parks? Rides? A Mouse? What about running? Not many people think of walking, running, or any kind of exercise when they think of Disney. I know for many years I didn't, I knew nothing about this completely different side of Disney. If you and your family are active, or looking to get active, Disney has you covered!

Disney's race series, also known as runDisney, offers everything from diaper dash races for babies to kids races to family 5ks, all the way up to a full marathon. You can find them on both coasts, with races in Disneyland and in Walt Disney World. Disneyland offers 4 half marathon race weekends(where you can also find kids' races, 5ks, and 10ks) and Walt Disney World offers 3 race weekends, with kids races to Disney's only full marathon. Each race is themed differently, from a Princess race weekend, to Tinkerbell, Star Wars and Avengers.

Disney does races differently than many other organizations do races(and in my opinion, better!). One of the biggest perks are the race courses themselves. You spend time running through Disney's theme parks before they open, even passing through the castle in some races. It makes for great picture opportunities!

runDisney races are just like Disney parks, they are tons of FUN! You can find tons of characters along the course for picture opportunities, everyone from Jack Sparrow, to princesses, to Woody and Buzz Lightyear and of course Minnie and Mickey.

Many Disney racers have fun with their running attire. Sure, you'll find the standard running gear, but you'll also find racers dressed as princesses, racers in tutus, group costumes, the possibilities are endless!

If you are interested in participating in a Disney race, here's what you need to know! First, register early. Disney races are becoming more and more popular, and while Disney has added new races recently, they still sell out quickly. You can contact your favorite travel agent to learn more about race dates and when registration opens. Next, train! For each race, Disney partners with former Olympian Jeff Galloway to provide training plans. They are aimed at all varieties of racers, from beginners to seasoned runners. You don't have to be a runner to get involved. A Disney race and vacation around a race weekend is the perfect motivation to start moving. Get the family involved! Sign your kids up for the kids' races or get the whole family together for the 5k. If your family isn't on board, get your friends ready to race. Race weekends make great girls' weekends, so get your girlfriends(or guy friends) together and make it a getaway. Lastly, have fun! Be creative, enjoy Disney, enjoy the sights and entertainment during the races. 

Whether you've never done a race or you've done a dozen, Disney has a race for you!

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