Why I Run 5Ks

Published Sunday, February 4, 2024

#essay

Running five whole kilometers just for fun sounds like something only crazy people¹ would do (don’t get me started on marathons). I must say, though, running medium distance races in an urban environment yields such a unique experience that I recommend everyone try it at least once.

My first distance race was the 2022 Peachtree Road Race, a 10K on Independence Day in Atlanta. After my wave left the starting line below a partly cloudy sky I found myself truly enjoying the views along the way: I saw perspectives of the surrounding architecture and other sights along the trail that I had never been able to appreciate in a car. Navigating the length of Peachtree Street, arguably one of the city's most iconic corridors, on foot and at my own pace was truly unique.

I was later curious whether I was marveling at the trail and its periphery or just getting excited about the fact that it was my first race. After finishing the 2023 race (in better shape luckily) and being in awe of the views along the trail again, I was certain it’s the views that I fall in love with. With each race I find enjoyment in the periphery of the trails, and after each one I find that my appetite for the next experience has only grown.

I don’t run 5Ks for the exercise, competition, or fitness data, although all of those things are nice. I run 5Ks for the sights, sounds, and camaraderie.

I’m gonna start recording my POV when I’m on these runs so you see can my point.

Update:2024 Publix Atlanta Marathon 5K (Runner's Eye View)