Lace up those running shoes and race on over to your favorite podcast platform! On this month’s planDisney podcast, panelists Betsy S. and Melissa H. share everything you need to know before signing up for your first runDisney event, with advice on training, costumes, transportation on race day, and even how to celebrate your accomplishment. Will their enthusiasm (and those amazing runDisney commemorative medals) be enough to convince host Amiyrah Martin to register for her first runDisney event? We will all have to watch to find out!
What is runDisney?
runDisney held its inaugural race at Walt Disney World Resort more than 30 years ago. Since then, runDisney has grown to six onsite race weekends at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort, coast-to-coast challenges, and even virtual races. As Betsy explains, runDisney events are a truly unique experience with magical themes, photo opportunities with some of your favorite Disney characters and even cast members cheering you on along the race path! Some might say that the Disney Parks scenery helps to tick those miles off faster.
Race Training
Whether you are considering a 5K, 10K, half marathon or even a full marathon, Betsy and Melissa both stress the importance of a good training program. And the best part is that runDisney provides free resources to help you reach your goals! Melissa enjoys training with a run/walk/run strategy and refers to the free Jeff Galloway training programs on the runDisney website. Betsy also recommends leaning into that Disney theme and training with some of your favorite Disney songs! Most importantly? Believe in yourself – you can do this!
Running In Style
One look at photos from a runDisney race, and there is one clear identifier that separates these events from the rest … costumes! Planning your costume is an exciting way to get you ready for race day. If you decide to run in style, heed Betsy and Melissa’s advice and make sure your costume is suitable to run the distance you have registered for. And be sure to check out the runDisney costume guidelines to ensure your attire meets the requirements.
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo
Race day is almost here, but not before a stop at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. Here, race participants can pick up their bibs and t-shirts, visit vendors and shop for race-exclusive merchandise. For Betsy and Melissa, a little retail therapy goes a long way for sore muscles! The Expo is a free-to-the-public event that not only race participants can enjoy but also spectators and health and wellness enthusiasts.
Post-Race Celebration
You did it! Now it’s time to celebrate in true Disney fashion, whether that’s posing for photos with your runDisney bling, relaxing by the pool at your resort or enjoying a well-earned meal at your favorite table service restaurant. And if you’re anything like Betsy and Melissa, you’ll already be thinking about signing up for your next runDisney event.
Enjoying this Disney podcast? You can listen to new episodes of the planDisney podcast every third Wednesday of the month on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also join the panelists on location and watch it on the Disney Parks YouTube channel.
Mark your calendar for April 17 for our next podcast episode! We’re headed to a Bohemian oasis with a touch of Disney magic that’s exclusive to Disney Cruise Line guests. In the meantime, be sure to follow planDisney on Instagram for more travel tips or ask your Disney vacation planning questions at planDisney.com.
Panelists receive compensation for their participation on planDisney.
Comments
Wonderful podcast, but you left out one important thing … runDisney races are ADA friendly. There are many accommodations so people with disabilities can participate.
I’m 68 and use a rollator. I’ve walked the past two Princess 5k’s. The first time dressed as Mama Coco, the second as a mobility challenged Ahsoka Tano. In last month’s 5k, I was one of the final five people to finish the race … but cross the finish line I did! It meant a lot to have so many people cheering for me. I’ve also completed seven runDisney virtual 5k’s.