Today’s “Take It and Run Thursday” theme over at the Runners’ Lounge is 5Ks and 10Ks.

I run a lot of these shorter races. My mileage is usually up to at least six miles at any given time, so they’re always comfortable distances. I can sign up for one spur of the moment and do just fine.

Racing is good because it’ll keep you from getting in a training rut. Even if you’re not increasing mileage for a half marathon or longer race, throwing in some shorter races is a good change of pace. Even in small “fun runs,” there’s still an adrenaline rush when the race begins. You give yourself a little extra push when you know you’re being timed!

While I race year-round, I tend to run quite a few 5Ks in the summer. The RRCA in Maryland sponsors a Women’s Distance Festival each year from May through August. Running clubs in Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia host 5Ks for women only (some offer separate men’s runs). And if you run at least four in a season, you get an award. Past prizes have been things like duffel bags, running hats, and custom pottery.

One of my favorite races from this series is the one hosted by the Reston Runners in Reston, VA. It’s a bit of a drive for us — it’s always a bit weird when the drive takes longer than the run — but that club puts on a great race. It’s a really nice run with inspirational quotes along the course. The men from the club are cheerleaders and stretching coaches dressed in grass skirts and coconut bras. And it doesn’t hurt that there are great premiums. Last year we got a soft lunch cooler, beach towel, running socks and a hat!

If you’re a new runner or interested in starting, I wrote a post last summer for “Take it and Run Thursday” with 5K/10K training tips. Or head on over to the Runners’ Lounge and see what the other runners have to say!