runDisney Marathon: The Most Magical Way to Race a 5k or 10k!
Whether you’re a long-time runner or just resolved to start jogging for the new year, Disney can be a great motivation to get moving! With a variety of annual runDisney marathons, Disney World has combined quality exercise with magical moments you’ll remember forever! (Believe it or not, a sprinkle of pixie dust really does make running fun!)
runDisney started its first race in 1994 with just a smattering of runners, but since then, it has grown exponentially and is now a highly anticipated event! Known for their Princess races, Springtime races, and the runDisney Wine & Dine 10k and Disney Princess Half-Marathon during the Food and Wine Festival, Disney World has been attracting runners – and aspiring runners alike! – for almost 30 years!
Disney has done a number of themes in the past, so no matter your favorite Disney movie or character, runDisney will most likely have a theme that can truly inspire you. Star Wars, Tinkerbell, and the Avengers are just some of the past themes that have drawn in large crowds.
Racing in a runDisney Marathon
Your outfit is something to look forward to for a runDisney race! Many Disney runners love to put on fun skirts or leggings, crowns, hats, and other Disney-themed accessories to make the races more fun by adding a bit of pizzazz to their normal running attire.
When you run a race for runDisney, you receive a race bib with your race number and a tech shirt (in the past, this was only for 10k, half-marathon, and marathon runners, but it is now offered for 5k runners as well!). You’ll also receive a Finisher’s Medal if you complete the race, which makes you feel like a bit of a champion! After all, finishing a race – be it 5k or 10k – is a great accomplishment!
Additionally, snacks and healthy refreshments are provided at the end of the race so that you can refuel after that hard-won step across the finish line.
While incredibly fun, unique, and rewarding, it’s worth mentioning that runDisney Marathons aren’t cheap, with the registration fee (per runner) usually starting around $95-$200, depending on the size of the race you’re entering.
Training for Your runDisney Marathon!
While budget might be a barrier to running a runDisney race, your experience level shouldn’t be! Even if you’re new to running, Disney has everything you need to prepare for the race so it can be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
You can download Disney’s FREE (yay!) recommended virtual training programs and jump into the fun, no matter your background. With these 13-week, 19-week, and 29-week programs, you’ll be in ship-shape to race so long as you stick to the regimen. Consistency is key! (You can check out the training programs on the runDisney website!)
Indeed, most people’s biggest concern when looking at a runDisney marathon is that they’re new or haven’t run in a long time. As with any skill or hobby – be it learning a musical instrument or a new language – the biggest hurdle is simply getting started.
When you start running, it’s essential to take it slow when building up your stamina. Walk for five or so minutes, and then try to run for one minute. Keep practicing, then build up to running for two minutes, and then three. Staying consistent with your training and staying hydrated is key. Maybe you’re worried about staying motivated? Remember what you are training for a runDisney Marathon! *cue fanfare*
Our advice for getting pumped – and staying pumped – for your runDisney training? A Disney Playlist! Make sure you have songs on your playlist such as “Go the Distance” from Hercules, “Life is a Highway” from Cars by the Rascal Flatts, “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin, and “Into the Unknown” from Frozen 2 by Panic! At The Disco. These are just a few stellar examples of high-energy Disney songs that can really pump you up and get you excited while you’re training!
Let’s say you still need something to keep you on track and excited because, let’s face it, running is tough. We have got just the thing to focus on: You get to complete your race in Disney World! And you’ll get to see all your favorite characters while you run because they are known for popping up throughout the race. Imagine being cheered on by Mickey Mouse himself! When Mickey Mouse believes in you, it feels like almost anything is possible. Certainly, finishing a 10k is possible, anyway!
A Photo Finish
Running in a runDisney Marathon is big deal and worth documenting. So, what’s the photo situation look like? Currently, Disney PhotoPass Photographers do take photos of the races, but if you want to keep them, you will have to purchase the photos after the race via the My Disney Experience app. If you are an Annual Passholder, you get the perk of photos being included in your registration.
Other Ways to Commemorate Your Big Race
If you want additional runDisney Marathon merch besides the T-shirt that comes with registration, you need to order it in advance, so be sure to do that! There’s a lot of neat stuff, including many people’s favorite – the runDisney bumper sticker. (Those bumper stickers are actually how a lot of people find out about the Disney races in the first place!) You can also find runDisney pins, cool hats, sweatpants, and more!
Get Ready, Get Set, Go!
runDisney races are a BIG deal. That’s why they’re expensive, and that’s why they require training. However, they are also some of the most fun marathons you’ll ever run. With 5k and 10k options, these races are truly accessible and enjoyable for all participants.
If you’re thinking of running, be sure to check the runDisney Marathon website for upcoming Disney Marathon dates and registration. Be aware they do sell out! That’s why it’s best to register in advance and start your training!
Here’s to a New Year filled with lots of Disney magic – and Disney exercise!
What’s your New Year’s resolution? Is it a runDisney Marathon? Let us know in the comments below!
Cover Image
Photo: Josh Hallett via Flickr
Disclaimer: We earn a commission if you click any of the links above and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
