2013 Running Season: Couch to 5K Motivation and Advice

The days are getting longer and we’re driving home in the dark less often these days. With daylight saving starting March 10, we’re about to get a lot more daylight in the events after work.

That means spring—and running season—is right around the corner.

Here, we’re rounding up some advice and some 5K races in Northern Virginia this spring to help you get back on your feet.

Advice from a Fat Runner

In the past few weeks, we’ve noticed an opinion piece Patch ran back in 2010 has been getting a lot of readers—The Fat Runners Guide to being a Fat Runner.

In that piece, Northern Virginia resident Alexis Mundis talked about—well, being a runner and being overweight. She gave great advice for women and men on how to start out, how to avoid chafing and other tips. Here are a few:

• Bodyglide: It’s an anti-chaffing anti-hot spot lubricant.
• Look at sporting goods stores for moisture wicking socks that are meant for runners, that fit snug on the feet and don't have a seam across your toes.
• Women: Shop around for a bra that is both comfortable and supportive, and if you're not finding anything that tames the ta-tas, try doubling up! When shopping for a bra, don't think about color or cuteness.
• The most important piece of advice you need to know is this: Yes, you can! Say it, believe it. There is no size or shape of a runner—like all the great things in life, we come in all different shapes and sizes.

Keeping that Resolution

If you’re deadline oriented or goal oriented, sign up for a race (see our list below) so you have something specific to work toward!

Every mile can burn 100 calories.

Mix it up! New routes, new challenges (can you make it to the next stop light before it turns red?), playing with paces and more can keep running interesting.

Here are more motivators from Runner’s World.

Where to Buy Gear

In Northern Virginia, there is no shortage of running stores that can help you with getting good shoes, clothes and even toys like GPS monitors, watches and other running equipment.

There is a Sports Authority at Potomac Yards. Pacers has several locations in Northern Virginia, including one at 1301 King St.

There is a Potomac River Running store in Falls Church, as well as a Potomac River Running store in the Ballston neighborhood of Arlington.

Know of others or have recommendations? Tell us in the comments!

Spring 2013 5K Races in Northern Virginia and DC

If you want to sign up for a race as a motivational tactic, here are a few you might consider in Northern Virginia and in DC:

Run Rogue 5K – Fairfax –March 23

Tysons Regional Chamber Corporate 5K Challenge – April 7

Star Kid 5K and Family Fun Run – April 14

George Washington Parkway Classic 5K – April 21

Public Service 5K – May 5

Semper Fi 5K – May 18

Marine Corps Marathon

Really motivated? The 2013 Marine Corps Marathon is Oct. 27. Registration opens March 27. Learn more about the 2013 Marine Corps Marathon here.