This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Auburn chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
January 1st always inspires collegiettes to dream big and set goals for the new year. We want to lose 20 pounds, run four times a week, eat healthier, and get our bikini body ready for Spring Break! If you’ve ever been to a college campus, you can tell from all the girls with their Norts, headphones, and flushed faces running around the block that distance running is becoming an extremely popular way to acheive the fitness level we all want. But as January is coming to a close, maybe you’re losing that motivational attitude and find yourself wondering if a day off from the gym will really affect your perfect figure in the long run. Need some motivation? Break up the monotony of training and spice up your running goals by preparing to participate in one of these fun and quirky distance races.
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1. The Color Run
Type: Road Race
Competitive Level: Low (untimed race)
Obstacles: None
Great For: First time 5k runners who like getting colorful
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Claiming to be the “Happiest 5k on the Planet,” The Color Run is an untimed 5K in which all runners are welcomed to participate, no matter the level of fitness. Be sure to wear your white, and by the end of the race your colors will show–literally!Â
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2. The Zombie Run
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Type: Obstacle & Mud Run
Competitive Level: High – you are “running for your life”
Obstacles: Series of Man-made obstacles & Chasing Zombies
Great for: Zombie lovers and people who like to be chased
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The Zombie Run is designed like a zombie movie set, meaning runners will be dashing from zombies while simultaneously maneuvering through chaos such as chemical spill zones or  car crashes. You’ll be darting through mud and working around obstacles trying to make it through the race before the zombies can steal all 3 of your flags. Since you’re running for your life, you’ll need need a pretty good level of fitness for quick sprinting.
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3. Hot Chocolate 5k/15k
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Type: Road Race
Competitive Level: Medium
Obstacles: None
Great for: Runners that Love Chocolate
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Offered in both a 5k and a 15k, the Hot Chocolate run invites all runners to participate in “America’s Sweetest Race.” Participants recieve a mug filled with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue, and tasty dipping treats upon finishing the race. Even better, proceeds also go to support Ronald McDonald House Charities.
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4. Nike Women’s Half MarathonÂ
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Type:Â Road Race
Competitive Level:Â Medium
Obstacles:Â None
Great for:Â Long distance runners who love Tiffany & Co.
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The Nike Women’s Half Marathon is great for the more experienced runner and has a great reward to offer upon completion of the race! Tiffany & Co. necklaces are given out to runners who complete the race in the given time frame. What’s more is the necklaces are presented on silver platters by handsome men in tuxedos waiting at the finish line. Talk about incentives! While walkers are welcome to participate, they are expected to finish in the specified time (15:00 per mile).Â
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5. Walt Disney World Marathon
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Type:Â Road Race
Competitive Level:Â High
Obstacles:Â None
Great for:Â Disney fans who are in great running shape
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The Walt Disney World Marathon is a 26.2 mile course that leads runners through all 4 Disney theme parks. Runners are even allowed to wear costumes if they wish. There is a pacing requirement so a lot of preparation is necessary to compete in this magical race. Runners will recieve a t-shirt, medal, iGiftBag, and on-course and post-race refreshments.
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Don’t give up on your exercise goals, ladies! Make your goals happen and find a fun run that appeals to you! Which one will you participate in this year?
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