The Silverado is the truck that works as hard as you do.
Running or working out in 2015 is a lot different than it was in the past. With the technology we possess at our fingertips by way of smartphones and other handheld devices, we can use apps that tell us how far we ran, shows us a map of our route and can post directly to our social media accounts to let everyone know. Heck, some may even snap a few selfies while running these days.
Whatever happened to just running or working out to better yourself? Or running for a cause? Not to gloat on social media or to look cute for a photo? Obviously, this is a generalized statement and does not reflect the actions of everybody, but seriously, look at any newsfeed and count how many photos, check-ins or posts are about working out, meal-prepping or going for a run. We work out to better ourselves, that should be all that matters. Or am I alone on this stance?
All right, rant over. In all seriousness, there are running events on the horizon over the next few weeks, as well as running/cardio classes happening all over the metropolitan area. If your interest has been piqued, consider the following options:
Upcoming Running Events
Walk for Warmth 5K kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28 in Sterling Heights. The event raises funds to assist residents of Macomb County with home heating emergencies (preventing utility shut-off and repairing or replacing furnaces) in this bitterly cold winter. The race begins and ends at Bethesda Church, 14000 Metropolitan Pkwy. There will be snacks provided and finishers will receive medals. A minimum pledge of $20 is required for participants, but donations of time, money and goods/services are welcomed. You can register or pledge on the website.
Hoodie Hoo 5K Run/Walk takes place on Sunday, March 1 at 9:30 a.m. It is at the Thomas Welsh Activity Center at Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metro Parkway in Harrison Twp. It is a USA Track & Field (USATF) certified race. The course is flat with a scenic lake view to the point and back. The race was named after a rather recent North American holiday called Hoodie Hoo Day. Allegedly, shouting “Hoodie Hoo” one month before the official start of spring chases off winter and welcomes spring. This is honestly a copyrighted holiday, I kid you not. Worth a try, I guess. Register online.
The Lucky Leprechaun 5K Run/Walk & Green Mile starts in front of the Shamrock of Utica, 7715 Auburn Rd., on Saturday, March 7 at 10:30 a.m., in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. This event is also certified by USTAF and features subtle hills, historic homes and buildings, bridges and Utica’s well-known Graffiti Tunnel under M-59. First, second and third place finishers for both male and female, as well as several age groups, will be awarded. There is even an Irish costume contest with prizes (for registered runners only). Register here.
If none of those do it for you, don’t worry. Remember math class, when Pi being equal to 3.14 was pounded in your head? Well, Saturday, March 14 is Pi Day, so naturally there are races. The Run 3.14 Pi happens in Dexter at 9:25 a.m., while the Stony Creek Pi Mile Run takes place in Rochester Hills at 9 a.m.
Cardio Classes
Nafas Fitness, 811 N. Main St., Ste. 101, Royal Oak offers a variety of cardio options in the form of kickboxing, dance, hip-hop cardio, Zumba and more. Many of the fitness classes mix dance movements with cardio, which is a great way to get in shape. There are a few price options: A single class costs $12, while a five-class package runs you $45 or a month worth of unlimited classes costs $69, to name a few choices.
Final Round Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness, 3770 Plaza Dr., Ann Arbor, features several programs focusing on cardio and conditioning. Cardio kickboxing happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Combat Conditioning takes place on Wednesday mornings from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. There is also a strength and conditioning program that may work well for you. This place will definitely whip you into shape in no time.
Now that you have options, get fit for yourself. You could always go running around your neighborhood, too. Enjoy your workouts!
