Austin is known for its breakfast tacos, music scene and runners. Whether on the Hike and Bike Trail, through the streets of downtown or around your neighborhood, you’re bound to see at least one runner throughout your day.
If you’re the runner, I wouldn’t be surprised if your 2015 resolution is to put more miles on your shoes than you did last year. Austin is home to excellent running clubs, some of the most fun running events in the country and local shops to outfit you.
Here are a 5 ways to step up your running game in Austin during 2015.
Austin Runners Club
The view of O. Henry Middle School where Austin Runners Club meets for group runs (Credit: Chris Prairie)
If 2015 is your year to take on a half or full marathon, you should check out Austin Runners Club. This non-profit organization welcomes runners and walkers of all fitness levels and their coaches are some of the best runners in town.
Membership to Austin Runners Club includes 3 coached group runs per week, a customized workout plan and discounts for race entries, running stores and fitness groups around town.
If you really want to push yourself this year, consider doing the Distance Challenge for 2015-2016. It’s a series of 8 races around town that lead up to the Austin Marathon or Half Marathon in February. You get a sweet jacket, cool magnet and access to a hospitality tent at each of the 8 events.
Monday Night Run at 6:30 PM, 3616 Far West Blvd – Website or Email
Austin Gorilla Run
Austin Gorilla Run participants (Credit: RampantGlee via Flickr CC)
What could be better than a 5K with beer at the finish line? Doing it in a gorilla suit! The proceeds from the annual Austin Gorilla Run benefit the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund, whose mission is to ensure the future of the Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This event is perfect for beginning runners who are looking for an easy and fun 5K. Your registration gets you a gorilla suit, pint glass and delicious craft beer from Thirsty Planet brewing.
January 31, 2015 at 7 AM, 4550 Mueller Blvd – Website
Capital 10K
Runners cross the South First bridge before the finish line (Credit: John Rogers via Flickr CC)
The Capital 10K takes you through downtown and West Austin, offering great views and a few manageable hills. This event is one the best races in town, bringing thousands of runners to the Congress Bridge, around the Capitol, along West Austin and to a finish by Auditorium Shores packed with spectators.
For runners looking to step up their game, this is the perfect race to sign up for. But be warned: those hills can be unforgiving.
April 12, 2015 at 8 AM, 78 S Congress Ave – Website
Run For The Water 10 Mile Race
Run For The Water race in Austin (Credit: Austin Birds iVideo/Gazelle Foundation)
If you’re not sure about running a full or half marathon, this 10 mile race is a great way to test the waters. Run for the Water is organized by The Gazelle Foundation, which is an Austin non-profit working to provide access to clean water for the citizens of Burundi by building water systems.
This event starts on the South First bridge and heads west towards Lake Austin. You’ll spend most of your time running past beautiful homes in West Austin before ending back on the South First bridge.
After 10 long miles, you can keep going down South First for a well-earned margarita and brunch.
Registration opens June 2015.
November 1, 2015 at 7 AM – Website
Rogue Running
A view from the inside of Rogue Running’s downtown Austin location (Credit: Rogue Running on Facebook)
Whether you’re looking for a new pair of running shoes, a running shirt or you want to train up for a half marathon, Rogue Running is the place to visit. It’s your one-stop shop for running gear and advice.
They offer training programs for beginners looking to take on their first 10K or for more advanced runners looking to improve their finish times.
You’ll find that Rogue Running’s friendly staff members are equipped with the knowledge to outfit you with the shoes you need to run comfortably around town or on the trails.
410 Pressler St – Website
In the right shoes and with the right training, running can be one of the most enjoyable and mindful activities. It offers you a different way to see the city, both through your workouts and the awesome running events you choose to participate in.
Whether this activity is part of your new year’s resolution or you’re looking to shake up your fitness routine, choose running in Austin for 2015.
@edwinxavierocho wants to know:
Which running events do you plan to participate in during 2015?
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You could have done so much better with this list than just throwing in Rogue at the end. Feels like you just tossed them in there to round out the Top 5. Could have included the Congress Avenue Mile, TriRock, the Uncle Billy’s Wednesday Beer Run. Instead it comes off as an advertisement for Rogue. Poor showing…