Difference in the WDW races?

[jkmmah]

I'm trying to find some info for dh and I about the various races WDW offers and not exactly coming across what I want. I've found dates for the differing races but no info on how they actually differ.

What is the difference (route, distance, popularity, etc) between all of them...the Minnie, Race for Taste, marathon, and so on? I think I saw several races held at WDW throughout a year's span. I'd thought the only race was the marathon, but I'm finding now that that is not true.

Also, for a non-runner like me (I'm a group fitness/class-taking girl) how do you train to become a runner? Recommended books/plans to follow? I'd like to start training now for a later 2008 race or the 2009 half marathon, while dh wants to train for the same late 2008 race or the 2009 full marathon.

Thanks all!

 

[ultramickeymouse]

Not to blow my own horn but check out my website. It has lots of maps, reports, photos, etc about the different races. Disney doesn't put them on their website until later so you can checkout the history.

Happy New Year All!

 

[cewait]

I'll toot Robert's horn as it is a wealth on specific information about all endurance events at Disney. Oops I may be tooting my horn just a little. Generally, the difference in the event is distance related. There are a couple 5k races, a 10k, 13k, all the way up to the marathon. each race has it's own theming, course and character.

As far as running goes....

I am not sure that there is any one book that will give you everything you may be looking for. Also, what are your goals? Are you thinking marathon, half, 10k, 5k or just fitness? Before purchasing a book, I will suggest you do the following first.

Go to a running store and purchase a set of shoes. It needs to be a running store with folks who can look at your stride and feet and assist you with getting the proper shoe. Do not use you aerobics shoes or go to the local box store and think that you will be getting a shoe you need. A good running store will take the time to talk a little with you about your goals and give you a selection to choose from. Ideally you would go to the store later in the day when your feet are a little larger to assure a proper fit.

Now that you have the proper shoes go out for a run. Most folks hit the gas pedal way too hard and will need to slow. Use the talk test to keep you aerobic while you run. The better place to make a first run is in a park on a packed gravel surface. If that’s not available, then asphalt is next best and concrete last. Plan on no more than a mile to two miles the first attempt and expect to walk before you finish. Again use the talk test to keep aerobic.

Go for a short run 3-4 times the first week…. No more. The following week expand the length a bit and continue a regular expansion until all runs are around three miles. From there, you may need direction.

Three authors come to mind as far as running books; Bingham, Galloway, Higdon and Dreyer. These guys have books aimed at beginners, have training programs (on line also) and discuss the inevitable injury.

Good luck. Start slow and build.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Welcome to the WISH Team!

Along with the recommended information, let me also suggest our weekly walker/runner thread. There you will find a wealth of information from people at various levels of training and experience. It is a wonderful way to make friends as you train and share your stories.