Are you a Disney fan looking to get more active and experience the magic of running with your favorite characters? If so, then a RunDisney event may be just what you are looking for!
What are runDisney races?
runDisney is a series of exciting running events in Disney theme parks. There are several distances available, including 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon. Or join one of the runDisney Challenges.
Can’t make it to the Walt Disney World Resort theme park on race weekend event? No worries. Sign-up for a Virtual Race.
2023 runDisney Race Calendar Upcoming Races
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: Jan. 4-8, 2023
- Walt Disney World 5k
- Walt Disney World 10k
- Walt Disney World Half Marathon
- Walt Disney World Half Marathon
- Goofy’s Race and Half Challenge
- Dopey Half Challenge
- Disney Castaway Cay Challenge
- Virtual Races
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend: Feb. 23-26, 2023
- Disney Princess Yoga
- Disney Princess 5k
- Disney Princess Enchanted 10k
- Disney Princess Half Marathon
- Disney Princess Fairy Tale Challenge
- Virtual Races
Springtime Surprise Weekend: April 13-16, 2023.
- Springtime Surprise Yoga
- Disney Pixar Cars 5k
- Disney Pixar Monsters 10k
- Disney Pixar Toy Story 10 Miler
- Complete them all for the Springtime Surprise Challenge
- Virtual Races
Disney Wine & Dine Weekend: November 2-5, 2023.
- Details on the Wine and Dine race coming soon. We will include information on the Wine and Dine Half Marathon, food and wine festival, and more.
Embracing Your Inner Princess or Hero: Tips for Training for runDisney Races
If you’re looking to take on a runDisney race, first, embrace your inner hero. Our training plans have got you covered.
Whether is to sign-up for your first 5k or your seasoned marathoner looking to do the Goofy’s Race or the Dopey Challenge, you will celebrate on race day, crossing the finish line with a smile on your face.
Our training plans focus on building up your speed and endurance; mix up short sprints with longer distances so that your body can build up both strength and stamina.
All plans include recommendations for hill practice hills by doing hill repeats or running courses that involve hills.
This will help to prepare your muscles for the course’s ups and downs. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to success in any runDisney race!
Get Ready for a RunDisney Event and Crush It on Race Day
Are you a Disney fan who loves to stay active and explore the magic of running with your favorite characters? Experience the benefits of running. Let’s go over tips and tricks to crush it on race day.
Before the race:
Checking out the fitness expo is great, but don’t spend too much time there. Rule number one of races, nothing new on race day. It is best to try to get in and out in an hour or two and then get out and stay off your feet.
It is fun to dress up like a beloved Disney character for race day. If you do, make sure you practice running in your race day outfit before race day. Note: No masks are allowed on runDisney courses.
This will help you to feel more comfortable and confident on the course, and that your costume is easy to run in. Make sure there are no areas that cause rubbing or chaffing.
Practice your race nutrition, sports drinks, or gels before the event. Having a happy tummy across the miles ensures that the race is fun and exciting. You don’t want to miss out on special moments because of stomach distress.
If you are participating in multiple races, you don’t need pixie dust to get ready for the next day. Enjoy seated entertainment. Take time to say off your feet during your Disney vacation.
During the race:
Be prepared for this exciting running event. Focus on maintaining a steady pace throughout the race. Take time to get pictures with iconic characters on the course.
This will help you to avoid being overwhelmed by surges of adrenaline and instead let your body naturally perform at its best.
Enjoy each mile with a smile as you run through the storied lands of Disney. Cross the finish line and get your commemorative medals.
Post-race:
Now is the time to celebrate what you have accomplished. Check out Epcot’s International Food, ride the rides, and enjoy the rest of your vacation knowing what you accomplished.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop and get your Disney Gear.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, if you are interested in signing up for a runDisney event, there are a few key things that you need to keep in mind.
First, the events are much more fun if you train effectively and safely to feel confident and ready when race day arrives. This may mean following a training plan and setting aside time each week to train.
Need help training for a runDisney Race or Challenge?
Join the Train Happy training group or hire me as a coach. I will help you navigate you enjoy training and racing at any runDisney event or runDisney Challenge.
Continued Reading
Check out the Nine Benefits of Running. If you haven’t started, you might want to start now.
Looking for fun new adventure. Check out runDisney Guide.
