Running is a longtime favorite hobby for many of us around the office. I can’t really explain why I run because the whole time I’m doing it I’m mad at myself for actually running, but it’s the feeling of accomplishment afterwards that makes the misery worth it. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby this winter or just to mix up your workout, here is a list of the top 5ks that will help bring out the “fun” in “fun run.”

1. 5k Foam Fun Run
When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013
Time: 9am
Where: Tumbleweed Park
745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286

$60 registration – kids 7 and under are free
http://foamfunrun-website.eventbrite.com/

About: BExtreme Events is hosting a fun run this Saturday and all proceeds go to SHAPEUSUP.org to help cure child obesity. There will be a 30-foot Slip ‘N Slide, five foam stations, and a ton of obstacles… do you seriously need any more convincing?

 

2. Night Envy Neon Run
When: Friday, Nov. 1, 2013
Time: 6pm
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale
16601 N. Pima Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$60.00 registration
http://nightnv.com/

About: What better way to relax after a long day of work than with a nice run and being blasted with paint cannons? This course has five color blast zones along the route with black lights, music and the paint cannons that are sure to add a little color into your life. Stay for the After Party with glow dancers, more paint and old school tunes!

 

3. 2013 Phoenix Undy 5000

When: Saturday, November 16, 2013
Time: 7:30 a.m.
Where: State Capitol District
1600 W. Washington St.
Downtown Phoenix

$30 Advance/$40 Race Day registration
http://support.ccalliance.org/site/TR?fr_id=1805&pg=entry

About: Help support the Colon Cancer Alliance in this 5k where you get to wear your cutest whitey tighties while running through the State Capitol. You read that right.

4. Flashback 5k
When: Saturday, December 7, 2013

Time: TBA
Where: Reach II Sports Complex
2425 E. Deer Valley Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85050

$40 registration
http://www.flashback5k.com/

About: Run through your favorite decade whether it be the ’70s, ’80s or ’90s at the Flashback 5k! The soundtrack to this run will be beyond awesome and countless photo ops have been promised. Be sure to stay of the Decades After Party and continue dancing the night away!

 

Hot Chocolate 15k/5k Run
When: Sunday, December 8th, 2013
Time: 5k starts at 7:30am
15k starts at 8:15am

Where: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

5k $50.00
15k $72.00
http://www.hotchocolate15k.com/phoenix/

About: Need some motivation for getting across that finish line? How about a nice warm cup of steaming hot chocolate? Named America’s Sweetest Race, this novelty run is a favorite for many across the nation and the goodie bag, which is a super warm fleece, is a must for running in the cold weather.

Be sure to share with us photos of your accomplishments on Instagram by using #WorkitoutWednesday!