Run for Your Life!

On behalf of Daegu's 2.6 million people you are cordially welcomed to the 2013 Daegu International Marathon being held on Sunday, April 14. OK, you may not be one of the 0.5% of the people out there who run marathons, but this race also features a 10K and 10K Fun Run.

Perhaps you made a New Year's resolution to get into shape or lose weight. Maybe you've always wanted to try running a road race that was a more reasonable length. Or, maybe like me, you're an occasional 10K runner. As the cold weather tapers, it's a great time to dust off the ol' running shoes (or buy new ones), stretch those muscles and introduce the wind to your hair. Regardless of your running experience, put April 14 on your calendar and join the fun!

Road races are fun events. Just ask these two runners*

OK, you are thinking, where do I even start? First, find one buddy you can run with--someone to support you, motivate you and yes, even push you. Second, set realistic expectations. Start with walking and gradually expand your ratio from walking to running. Third, choose a specific, reachable, yet challenging goal for yourself.
Done right, and with appropriate preparation, running IS VERY GOOD FOR YOU. Here are 5 running tips to keep in mind:
1. Always stretch and warm-up your muscles before and after running.
2. Hydrate yourself by drinking 1, 2, or even 3 liters of water every 24 hours while you're training.
3. Eat well. Load up on carbohydrates, like pasta, the night prior to a race or longer run.
4. Develop a good training program. Be consistent. Reward yourself for making progress.
5. Set goals for yourself.
A good place to start is with a pair of quality running shoes. New Balance are my personal favorites because they come in all sizes and widths, are made well and are competitively priced. You can also get some good suggestions from friends who currently run or have experience with road races. Daegu's many parks, riverside trails, and school running tracks are perfect for training.

Whatever your goal, there is a road race and pace for you!*

If you are a beginner, you may have some basic questions. Several of them are asked and answered here.
Any runner, neophyte or experienced, will find these running and training reminders helpful. 

Hey, there are some dissenting voices out there. Let's give that perspective some air-time. Here's a runner who wants you to know that running in Korea is not always fun.

But we're here to cheer you on! There isn't a better feeling than crossing the finish line in any race. When that medal is handed to you, you'll feel like a million bucks--make that 1,089,800,000 won.
Waeguks Got Runs is a great Facebook Group for expat running enthusiasts in Korea.
Marathon Online is a good resource for running in Korea (Korean language only).
The Daegu International Marathon (and 10K) will attract people, not only from Daegu and Korea, but from around the world. Once on the site, click on the language button on the top of the page. You can register on-line from here or download a registration form. See you on April 14th!

*photos thanks to HAPS (The Magazine for What's Happening)