Baton Rouge Runners Archives - Baton Rouge Family Fun

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

October 13, 2021 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Whether you are a turtle or a hare there is fun for all to be had at the Baton Rouge Zoo’s 16th annual Family Zoo Run Run on Saturday, November 13th, 2021. Run like a cheetah to the 16th annual Zoo Run Run 2-Mile Race and ½ Mile Kids’ Fun Run presented by Ochsner! At the run, enjoy the scenery as you scamper, trot or gallop your way through BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo. All proceeds from the race support your Baton Rouge Zoo and international cheetah conservation efforts. Again this year, all participants earn a medal! After the race, participants are invited to join the Zoo for food, refreshments, and an award ceremony.

REGISTER HERE!

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

Where else do you get to run alongside cheetahs, elephants, monkeys, and more?

Race Day

Race day registration will be located at the front entrance of the Zoo. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, take Exit 8A off of I-110 North and turn right onto Highway 19. Continue to the second stop light and turn right onto Thomas Road. The Zoo entrance is one mile on the left.

On-Site Registration Begins 6:30am

Kids 1/2 Mile Fun Run Begins 7:30am

2 Mile Race Begins 8:15am

Chip Timing

Only 2-Mile runners will be timed. Your RFID timing chip will be attached to your race bib.

Race T-Shirts

Only participants who are pre-registered by October 22nd are guaranteed a Zoo Run Run t-shirt in thier size on Race Day.

Entry Fees*

Adult/Teen Registration

Pre-registration (by Nov 13): $30
Race Day Registration: $35

Child Registration (ages 12 and under)

Pre-registration: $17
Race Day Registration: $22

REGISTER HERE!

For more Family Zoo Run Run information check out: BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo Website

For questions or to volunteer, please call (225) 775-3877 or email info@brzoo.org.

Flock on down and join the herd for a great event for competitive and casual runners, walkers, and families alike, all for a great cause. We hope to see you there!

Bring Out Your Inner Athlete

March 25, 2015 by Nicole Decker

Yes ,YOU can be a Triathlete and RKF of Rocketchix and Rocketkidz Foundation can help from young to old. All levels are welcome and are there with you every step of the way. What better way to set an example for your family in self-care, fitness and goal setting than to participate in an athletic event? RKF offers FREE training plans on the website and swim clinics in the race pool leading up to the event, including a practice swim at the last clinic. The Bicycle Shop provide FREE group training rides on Saturday mornings to help you get comfortable on your bike (any kind of bike). If you are lucky, you can catch Jen Ferruggia giving advice to regulars. The support you get along the way leading up to race day is INCREDIBLE (and yes I am speaking from experience as a non-swimmer, I learned how to swim in just one month thanks to the clinics offered. I can happily say “YES, I AM A TRIATHLETE!” Thank You Rocketchix!! )

Upcoming events:

Rocketchix I Triathlon and Duathlon April 26th at LSU Natatorium, Baton Rouge.
Rocketchix II Triathlon and Duathlon July 25th at LSU Natatorium, Baton Rouge.

Distances for the Triathlon: 350 meter pool swim / 12 mile bike / 2 mile run
Distances for the Duathlon: 2 mile run / 12 mile bike / 2 mile run

RKF believes there is an athlete in every woman, no matter how old or young, fit or not. Find your inner athlete and join for a great swim, bike and run on the beautiful LSU campus.

Even the kids with their floaties and training wheels can join in the fun at BREC’s Rocketkidz Rookies on June 6th at Liberty Lagoon Water Park. Ages 3-10 years old, they also have non- swimmer divisions and the race is designed for FUN with distances that are super short. The bike for the older kids is about a mile, the younger ones do less and the itty bitties do a tiny sidewalk scoot. Everyone gets timed and gets a medal. Let’s have the kids get out and try something different and have fun doing something fitness-y while getting the superstar athlete treatment. The smiles are priceless and inspiring to many.

For the older kids ages 6 -14 yrs wanting a taste of competitive fun there is the Rocketkidz LSU Triathlon on July 26th at LSU Natatorium. They must be able to swim unassisted in the LSU collegiate pool. Distances vary according to age and again everyone gets a medal. Let’s encourage the kids to set a fitness goal over the summer and try this out. There is no telling where it can lead them. I know that for me this journey has been life-changing, going from using effective diet tablets to TRIATHLETE!

The mission of RKF is to create and sustain active, fit and healthy children, families and communities through programming, advocacy and education. Find your inner athlete and register.

Chix 1: http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventOverview.aspx?fEID=23165&z=1426001998247

Chix 2: http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventOverview.aspx?fEID=23166&z=1426002019387

Rookies: http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventOverview.aspx?fEID=23169&z=1426002278272

Kidz LSU: http://www.imathlete.com/events/EventOverview.aspx?fEID=23170&z=1426002415480

*Kids with special needs or circumstances can be accommodated*

Now for a GIVEAWAY! We are giving away a Rocketchix I Triathlon and Duathlon Registration for April 26th & ONE Registration for BREC’s Rocketkidz Rookies on June 6th! Stay tuned, another Run giveaway will be coming up in June!

To Enter, please use the Rafflcopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Running 101- Taking that first step

February 25, 2015 by Nicole Decker

Lace up your tennis shoes and go!! Just kidding! Ok, let’s back up a bit.

First, depending on what kind of shape you are in and your age you may want get a physical from your doctor to get the all clear to take that first step.

Next, Clothes. Yes, you can technically wear a cotton t-shirt, pair of shorts (not jean shorts!) and your yard tennis shoes but if you don’t want to be a sweaty, hot mess five minutes into it, invest in a dry wick/poly blend shirt and running shorts or pants. When the temperatures dip dress in layers so you can easily adjust. Keep in mind you will warm up at least 10 degrees within the first mile or two into your run so it is important not to over dress.

Shoes: You must get some quality running shoes. I highly suggest going to a specialty, local running store such as Varsity Sports or Fleet Feet so they can check your feet and see how you walk so they can properly fit you.

Jenni Peters owner of Varsity Sports with 30 + years of running experience says: “The only absolutely necessary piece of equipment is a good shoe specifically designed for running. There is nothing wrong with the less expensive, less technical shoes from the major brands but if someone is involved in serious training that one single thing ‘a good pair of shoes’ is critical. Plus it is key to match a shoe type to your own biomechanics. That’s where the professionals at your local running store play a part.”

Buddy up: Don’t forget the sunblock and if you can recruit a neighbor or friend to join you. It’s easier to walk out that door if you have someone waiting on you. Add on an inexpensive watch that has stop/start capabilities so you can track your time, distance and pace such as the Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch.

Safety First: Run against traffic. If you run at night, make yourself visible by wearing light-colored, reflective clothing. Carry identification. Take a basic self-defense class if you are going to be running solo. Always trust your intuition. If you’re unsure about a person or a place, avoid it.

Music: This is optional but if you do choose to run with music please keep it low so you can be aware of cars, cyclists and people around you. If you are into trail running I wouldn’t advise running with music since most races do not allow them and you need to hear the people around you.

Warm up: Jog for 5-10 minutes to warm up muscles. It is not recommended to stretch cold muscles. Save your main stretching segment for after your run. (See link below for Stretching)

Running form: Head up, Eyes forward on the horizon, Shoulders relaxed, Arms low and loose, Elbows bent about 90 degrees, Don’t clinch your fists keep your fingers light like you are holding a potato chip, Run tall, chest high like a balloon is lifting you up, let your legs do the work they should feel quick with your stride short with feet landing underneath you and your feet landing on your heel to mid-foot. Try not to twist at the hips. (I am personally bad about this) Hips should be pointed straight ahead.
Start off slow: Ease into your run. Start slow and push mid way and into a strong finish by saving some gas for the end. You can start off with one mile or 15 minutes your choice. Next time go two miles / 30 minutes. Start a running log to track what you ate, drank, dressed, weather outside as well as how long or far you ran. Track how you felt after your run. Start off slow and only add 10% to the following week. It’s easy to get overzealous on a nice morning and tack on extra miles but doing this regularly will lead to injury which is best to avoid if at all possible. (Trust me I am coming off an injury right now from adding mileage too fast and now I am having to rebuild all over again)

Make a schedule: We all have busy schedules so take the time to plan out when is the best times to get your running in. Whether it is mornings, afternoons or evenings. What days of the week work best for you? Plan out at least a month in advance, put it in your calendar and stick to it. Need a training plan? Google it and find the best one that works for your schedule, running pattern and goals. (See link below on various training plans)

Strength train: Running injuries, especially knee and hip-related problems, are often a result of muscle weaknesses or imbalances. Core and lower body exercises are especially important for injury prevention. If you like Spin class, Yoga or Swimming add these workouts to your weekly schedule.

Don’t get discouraged: You have already taken that first step which is the most important. Now write down some goals whether it is signing up for a 5k or 10k that you have had your eye or to simply to feel better about yourself. Learn what inspires you and keeps you motivated.

It is a lot to remember and can get overwhelming but the main things are Breathe, Focus and be Patient. I have been running since 2011 and I STILL have lots to learn. I am no expert but fortunately there are endless resources out there from various running websites, Facebook groups even local running stores sometimes have running programs and weekly runs to join in. You simply have to ask.

Resource suggestions:
• Stretching: http://www.runnersworld.com/training/stretching
• Running Form: http://www.runnersworld.com/running-tips/perfect-form
• Avoiding Injury: http://m.runnersworld.com/sites/default/files/InjuryPrevention.pdf
• Nutrition: http://m.runnersworld.com/sites/default/files/NutritionGuide_0.pdf
• Gear Guide: http://m.runnersworld.com/sites/default/files/GearGuide.pdf

Examples of training plans:
• http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/running/training-schedules/5k-10k-half-marathon-training-plans/
• http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/5k.html
• http://www.halhigdon.com/training/

To find races in your area: http://www.active.com/running?

Good Luck and Enjoy the Journey!

Don’t miss Forum 35’s Reindeer Run & Jingle Bell Jog on Dec 5th

November 14, 2014 by Nicole Decker

Ready to get into the Christmas spirit? I have the perfect evening out for you and your family.

Forum 35’s Reindeer 5k Run & Jingle Bell 1 mile Jog will take place on Friday, December 5^th in Downtown Baton Rouge. You can’t miss the sound of the jingle bells. Don’t forget to tie the bells to your laces before the race starts and stay for the fun afterwards. There will be lots of food and hot chocolate available. Be sure to keep a lookout for the mascot “Rudy, the Reindeer”

STARTING TIMES

7:00 PM – Jingle Bell Jog 1 mile fun run
7:20 PM – Reindeer Run 5K

STARTING/FINISHING POINT
Both runs will start and finish at City Plaza on the corner of 4th Street and North Blvd.

TIMING AND PRIZES

All registered runners in the 5K will receive a chipped, race number with automatic time tracking.
Age group and overall winners will receive prizes. Kids prizes will be awarded for both Jingle Bell Jog and Reindeer Run!

For more information check them out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReindeerRunBR or on their website at http://www.reindeerrunbr.com/

For Baton Rouge Moms readers save 20% off registration with promo code: “DECKtheHALLS”

*All runners & spectators are encouraged to bring a NEW, unwrapped toy to donate to U.S. Marines’ Toys For Tots program*

Zombies, Ghouls, Dancing and yes a Run!

September 18, 2014 by Nicole Decker

Come out for some spooky fun on October 3. 2014 for Zombie Bash’s 5th birthday brought to you by Of Moving Colors Productions. OMC is a contemporary dance-theatre organization dedicated to creating and presenting excellent performances and community-based dance activities that inspire, educate, and stimulate.

The Zombie Bash is…
a costumed 5K run/walk
a new Creepy Crawler 1 mile fun run
a BASH… including music, great food, drinks, and a moonlight performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” shortly after the 5k.

The races will begin and end at the new Brickyard South, across the street from Baton Rouge’s award-winning 13th Gate Haunted House. The 5K route is an out & back along historic River Road.

6:30 pm	Creepy Crawler 1 Mile Fun Run
6:45 pm	Zombie Bash 5K

Start of the 5k

Click HERE to register for the 5k run/walk or the Creepy Crawler 1 Mile Fun Run. ( T-shirt’s are only guaranteed if you sign up by September 22)

Want to brush up on your “Thriller” moves and join in the performance after the run? Keep watch on The Zombie Bash 5k Facebook page or OMC website for free classes offered.

Costumes are welcome!

Still unsure? Check out this video from the 2011 Zombie Bash recap.

Route for the 5k

Keep the festivities going afterwards by visiting The 13th Gate for some scares.

The 13th Gate opens September 26th!

Erasing Mommy Guilt

September 3, 2014 by Jessica Walker

Since I have decided to run my first marathon this year in December, the St. Jude Memphis Marathon, I knew that I was going to have to up my training. I have run four St Jude ½ marathons with my Mom and my best friend since 5th grade, this race has become very special to us and has started a family tradition. At the race in 2010, my now husband asked my parents for my hand in marriage and showed them the ring. In 2012, I was unknowingly 6 weeks pregnant and ran my fastest half time to date.

In 2013, we took our little one for her first road trip, but the race was canceled due to the ice storm, but we braved it together. This year my best friend and I are running our first full marathon, my Mom is running the half, one of my brothers is running his first half and my other brother is running the 5k. I have to thank to our support team, my Dad, husband and sister-in law, because without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this. Needless to say, Memphis and St. Jude have a special place in all of our hearts, not only for our own families reasons but for the biggest reasons… the children fighting for their lives and knowing that our participation in this race is contributing to their fight.

With this being my first full marathon, I want to be prepared. I don’t want to just suffer through 26.2 miles; I want to crush 26.2 miles! I want to finish the race in 4 hours. I have set my goal and now I have to do whatever I can in order to meet it. Have I ever finished a ½ marathon in 2 hours? No, but I am bound and determined that I am going to run 26.2 miles in 4 hours. Crazy, right? But it’s amazing what your body will do when you get your brain on board! I mean, I delivered a 9 pound baby!

In order to reach my goal, I have to commit to a real training plan and stick to it. This means running somewhere from 5-10 miles during the week and at least 6-20 on the weekends. This means I have to do sprint work, fartleks and wake up before the sun and my child on Saturday’s during football season to get a 20 mile run in before it gets too hot or too crowded out at LSU. This means I have to prepare meals and squeeze in long runs and line up babysitters. How am I going to do this?

This is where I had to make the decision to do the work to reach my goal or let the dreaded Mommy Guilt get the best of me.
Let’s go back about 1 year and 10 months ago, before having a baby became a reality. I never thought twice about walking out of the door to go for a run or coming home later than usual because I was out running the lakes. I KNEW I wasn’t going to be the mom that gave up ‘my time’ just because I had a baby. I had images in my head of a jogging stroller that I would push around for miles. Well, how wrong was I? In walks….Mommy Guilt.

You know that nagging feeling in your heart that you can’t shake. It makes you feel like you are the worst Mom in the world because you choose to take care of yourself and do something for you. It makes you feel like you are choosing yourself over your child and family. It makes you feel selfish. It down right sucks! “Take care of you”, they say, but why is it so hard? I hate walking out the door when I know that I could be spending time with my little one and my husband. But I know that this run is helping me take care of myself because if I don’t take care of me, who is going to take care of them. I know that this 5 mile run on a Wednesday night is helping me get better so that I can run 26.2 miles in 4 hours.

Erasing Mommy Guilt

These are my reasons for letting go of the Mommy Guilt. I do it because I want my little one to know that Mommy committed to something and followed through, even when it was hard. I want her to know that by being a St. Jude Hero I am helping others. I want her to know that there is nothing wrong with taking care of your body and pushing yourself when things get tough. I hope to teach her that she can do anything she puts her mind to. I take this time because it makes me a better person, a better Mom and a better wife. It helps me de-stress and let the day go. It helps me to prepare for what tomorrow brings. Hopefully, one day my daughter will share my love of running and it will be something we can do together, but most of all I want her and my family to be proud of me. I am looking forward to crossing the finish line with my best friend and see my whole family waiting there for us with huge smiles, even if it is 4 and a half hours later! These are my reasons for not letting Mommy Guilt get the best of me. What are yours?

**As a St. Jude Hero, I have also committed to raising money as part of my training. You can make a donation St. Jude HERE to my personal fundraising page or at the link listed below. Thank you in advance! http://heroes.stjude.org/charleemae

Tips for getting your kids to the Finish Line

May 13, 2014 by Nicole Decker

This past weekend was a unique race experience for me. I got to join my 8 year old niece and 6 year old nephew for the Girls on the Run 5k. As soon as we knew it the kids said “It’s starting, we have to go!” We lined up in the back since my sister in law said they would probably be walking most of it. Not a half a mile into it I started hearing the excuses from my niece: “I have to pee”, “My side hurts”, “My feet hurt”, “Can I just sit?”, “How much further?”. Her younger brother was like Superman. You could have just put a cape on him and he would have been gone. He was enjoying himself and taking in the sights along the way. When we got close to the Finish line you couldn’t keep either child from make that quick sprint to claim their medal they earned for their 3.1 mile journey. My niece wouldn’t let the volunteer put the medal on her though she saved that honor for me her Aunt Nicole which made my day. I thought I would share some tips on how to make race day a bit easier on the kids so they can claim their own Finish Line experience.

Research the pre & post-race day activities and food options that your kids would like ahead of time.
Choose light breakfast options for your kids to not weight them down but provide enough energy to carry them through.
Lay everything out the night before so you’re not scrambling to get out of the house.
Try not to over dress your kids. Check the race temps and dress for 10 degrees warmer. You will warm up within the first mile of starting your activity.
Check your kid’s shoes before race morning to make sure there is enough wiggle room and the soles look good. Check their shoe laces before the race starts.
Take them to the restroom 15-20 minutes before the race start.
Allow them to drink at the water stops but not chug! A few sips will suffice.
Watch your kids breathing. Quick, shallow breathing will bring on side stitches. Slow your pace. The faster the pace, the shorter the sequence (fast pace = one or two strides per breath, slower = three or four strides per breath).
Encourage them to keep moving when they want to slow down or stop. Tell your kids you are proud of them and focus on the shorter targets rather than the finish line. Let’s get to that stop sign or next water station.
If your child has any medical or physical impairments write it on the back of their race bib along with their full name, allergies as well as your name and phone number in case you get separated.
Don’t forget sunscreen and enjoy this experience with your kids. It may be something they pass on to their own kids one day.

To learn more about Girls on the Run you can visit their website: girlsontherunsola.org or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gotrsola