Austin Marathon® and 3M Half Marathon bring together runners for training, fun & prizes

Austin, TX – September 1, 2023 – The countdown to the highly anticipated Ascension Seton Austin Marathon® and 3M Half Marathon has officially begun with the announcement of Run Austin® Kickoff Week. Set to take place from September 5th to September 12th, 2023, this week-long event promises a dynamic fusion of fitness, camaraderie, and prizes that will ignite the spirit of running within the Austin community.

Run Austin Kickoff Week is an annual tradition that brings together seasoned runners, aspiring athletes, and running enthusiasts to celebrate the upcoming Austin Marathon (February 18, 2024) and 3M Half Marathon (January 21, 2024). With a focus on promoting health, wellness, and an active lifestyle, this week-long series of events is the perfect platform for participants to gear up for the main races.

Throughout the week, runners of all levels are invited to partake in various run groups that embody the essence of the Austin running scene. Over 23 group runs are scheduled to take place during the week with groups spread throughout the city and surrounding areas. The week-long running festivities come to a close with a group run followed by a post-run happy hour.

In addition to group runs, one of the highlights of the week is the chance to win exciting prizes. Every day during Run Austin Kickoff Week, participants will have the opportunity to enter their name for a range of running-related prizes from sponsors, including top-tier running gear, nutrition, and a grand prize valued at over $2,000. This element of anticipation and reward adds an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling lineup of events.

 

“We’re excited to launch Run Austin Kickoff Week, a celebration that embodies the very essence of the Austin Marathon and 3M Half Marathon,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, the producers of both running events. “This week is about more than just training and preparation; it’s a chance for runners to come together, support one another, and share their passion for the sport. We can’t wait to see the energy and camaraderie that will unfold during this exciting week.”

“We’re thrilled to support Run Austin Kickoff Week, as the Austin running community begins to build mileage in the hope of crushing their 2024 race goals. As The Official Running Store of High Five Events, Fleet Feet Austin is honored to once again partner with the 3M Half Marathon and Austin Marathon to curate memorable experiences for participants. We hope Austin is ready for another inspiring race (and successful) race season, and we look forward to hosting the community at large,” stated Ari Perez, Operating partner Fleet Feet Austin.

For a detailed schedule of events and more information about Run Austin Kickoff Week, please visit the official event website at http://werunaustin.com/.

About Run Austin® Kickoff Week:  Run Austin Kickoff Week is a week-long series of events dedicated to celebrating the upcoming Austin Marathon and 3M Half Marathon. Focused on promoting a healthy lifestyle, camaraderie, and skill-building, the event offers a range of activities, run groups, and prize opportunities for runners of all levels. Participants can engage with the Austin running community, enhance their training, and prepare for the main races in the months ahead.

About the Austin Marathon® and 3M Half Marathon:  The Austin Marathon and 3M Half Marathon are annual running events held in Austin, Texas, attracting participants from around the world. Known for their scenic routes, enthusiastic crowd support, and commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, these races are a staple in the Austin community’s calendar. The events provide runners with a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, achieve personal milestones, and experience the vibrant spirit of Austin. Both events are owned and operated by Austin based High Five Events.

Aqua jogging is more than just a fun way to break a sweat. It’s a game-changing exercise method, especially for runners. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, an occasional jogger, or recovering from an injury, aqua jogging might be the missing piece in your fitness routine.

Ice Baths and the Benefits They Offer

We’ve seen or heard of athletes regularly dipping themselves into a freezing ice bath after a hard workout. However, what do we really know about the benefits these ice-cold baths have to offer? Take a look at some common benefits ice baths can have to see if you should try out an ice bath as part of your half marathon recovery!

What’s The Fuss Over Ice Baths?

Just like you’d ice a twisted ankle or strained muscle, cold temperatures have been proven to speed up the healing process within our bodies while also relieving pain. Ice baths benefit and relieve aching, sore, and inflamed muscles. They also limit the inflammation response that would usually occur which helps aid in a quicker recovery.

Ice baths are also thought to help with circulation. When you’re in an ice bath, your body naturally exerts more effort in maintaining its internal temperatures to continue functioning properly. Once you’re out of the ice and your body is no longer in contact with the cold temperature, blood flow increases allowing the body to maintain its recycling process. Increasing blood flow will help you sleep and make you feel better, physically, and emotionally.

The Top 10 Benefits of Taking an Ice Bath

Ice baths are believed to improve the recovery from strength, power, and flexibility workouts, as well as recovery from muscle damage and swelling.

It is said that decreasing the local temperature after exercise helps limit inflammatory response, decreasing the amount of inflammation, therefore helping you recover faster.

The effects of submerging your body in ice also have a positive impact on the central nervous system. It increases the production of endorphins that affect a person’s overall mood.

This release of endorphins can also help you achieve a better night’s rest so you’re ready to go for the next training session!

The Right Way to Take an Ice Bath

Ice baths are useful for quick recovery between training sessions. In order to see results from an ice bath, it must be done right. Here are a few tips:

  • If your goal is to combat soreness or prevent your muscles from further damage, the sooner you get into an ice bath after a tough workout, the better.
  • While you’re at it, add in some post-workout recovery foods/drinks to really speed up your recovery time!
  • How cold is too cold? The temperature of the bath should actually be between 50 and 59º F.
  • An ice bath should last between 10 and 15 minutes at most.
  • Lastly, you’ll want to make sure you submerge your entire body in the water to get the effect you’re looking for.

Why Should You Give It a Try?!

Ice baths are good for athletes because they help your body stay prepared for the next workout. From speeding up recovery time to alleviating pain that could prevent you from your training, ice baths have some real benefits.

What if we told you that running in the heat could offer numerous advantages? Surprising as it may seem, embracing the warmth and sweating it out during your runs can bring about a multitude of benefits for both your body and mind. In this blog, we’ll unveil some of the hidden advantages of running in the heat and why you should consider adding it to your fitness routine.

The July running playlist is the anthem you need to chase your 13.1-mile PR

We’ve got more tunes for you because Austin is The Live Music Capital of the World. We’re sharing our favorite tunes with you every month so you can train for and chase your half-marathon PR. Often times one song (or several!) can power you through a tough time during an intense workout or a long run. Trust us, we speak from experience! Jam out to the entire July running playlist or take your favorites and make your own list. The July running playlist has the music you need, from AC/DC’s Thunderstruck to one of Texas’ ascending stars, Leon Bridge

Playlist pro tips:

1) drag the July Running Playlist to your ‘Playlists’ section for quick access

2) click the download button so you can listen even if you’re offline

Utilize the July running playlist and these 5 self-care tips to maximize your training. Keep the volume at a level where you can pay attention to your surroundings. It’s important to know what’s going on around you!