runDisney Inspires

Looking at my Twitter and Facebook feeds over the Labor Day Weekend, I was very proud of my friends.  Many of them were posting updates on their participation in Disneyland’s Half-Marathon Weekend festivities.  Some did the 5k, some the 10k, many the half, and even some the Dumbo Double Dare.

Runners cross the start line of the eighth Disneyland Half Marathon

The runDisney phenomenon is not one that I would have predicted.  Let’s face it, Disney fans are not known for their healthy lifestyles as a whole.  But what started as a marathon to get some attendance in the dead of January at Walt Disney World, has turned into a Disney sub-culture that is encouraging many to live a healthier lifestyle.

Jimmy Grabow of Runners Springs, Calif., captured his second consecutive Disneyland Half Marathon title

With 7 separate events between California and Florida, you can’t be a Disney fan and ignore runDisney’s presence.  The events sell-out quickly and seem to get bigger every year.  I can’t help but wonder, how many of the participants would be running if it was not part of Disney’s offerings.

Stephanie Dinius of Palo Alton, Calif., crosses the finish line first

I know many Disney fans and Cast Members that use these events as a gateway to a lifestyle change.  They start with preparing and participating in a Disney event, which leads them to other events and an overall healthier life.  I can’t help but wonder if this does more good than a lot of Disney’s Magic of Healthy Living offerings.

 

Please note that a distance-running event is not something you should get in to in a whim, but if Disney is inspiring you to try accomplish this goal through proper preparation and training, that is a good thing.

 

So with that, congratulations to all that have participated in a runDisney event or are working toward that goal.  You inspire me to be healthier and for that I thank you.