Six Ways to Celebrate National Running Day

Written by Jennifer Squires

National Running Day is Wednesday. It's a time for runners everywhere to celebrate their sport and show their passion. 

There's no shortage of runners in El Cerrito and the surrounding neighborhoods. You see them running up and down the hills in El Cerrito and Berkeley all the time.

So for all the runners around town—and those who wish they had the motivation, desire or ability to join them—here are ways to celebrate National Running Day.

1. Go for a run (d'oh!). 
2. Register for a local race. This is a great motivator, whether you're an experienced runner who has grown bored with the usual workouts or someone looking to be more athletic.
3. Read about running. Try Born to Run, the 2009 bestseller by Christopher McDougall that inspired a lot of people to hit the trails—many of them barefoot. 
4. Find a running group. Team In Training almost always has a group training for an event. Both are good options if you're looking for a coach to guide your exercise.
5. Be healthier. Getting adequate sleep, eating your vegetables and drinking lots of water will make you feel better, which translates into better running. 
6. Download some running jams. Rocking some tunes can help you through the lowest moments of your run. Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run," Michael Jackson's "Beat It," and "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor are classics. 

Bonus: The Rock'n'Roll Marathon series is offering a one-day $20 discount on all their events for those who sign up Wednesday. The San Jose Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon is Oct. 20, and the San Francisco installment is April 6. 

And if National Running Day isn't your thing, don't fear. National Donut Day is coming up on Friday.