The Run to Start With–Dirty Girl Run

Running a 5k isn’t necessarily fun, but it can be a total blast if you get to play in the mud at the same time, like you do at the Dirty Girl Run.

I got to be part of the Dirty Girl Run in Atlanta recently and have to admit, it was even more fun than I imagined.

Not everyone loves playing in the mud, and it’s certainly not something I do often, but I can tell you I wish I did.

I joined about 6 friends for the Dirty Girl Run and we laughed our way through the entire 5k (ok, we whined a little, too, when it came to the running part).  There’s something really liberating about crawling through clay-colored water.

The Dirty Girl combines an obstacle course with the race and I worried a bit that I may not be able to pull myself over a wall or I’d fall flat on my face when I had to work my way through the maze.  But these weren’t the kind of obstacles that challenge you.  At least not most people.  These are the kind of obstacles that are a breeze to overcome, the kind you know your kids could even do (yes, even my 7 yr old could have handled this obstacle course).

That doesn’t take away your sense of accomplishment in finishing, though.

And it makes this 5k a lot less boring than most.

My advice: if you have the chance to be part of one of these events, jump in (but know you’re going to get your shoes dirty!).

Other advice:

Get your girlfriends to sign up with you. Anyone can do this 5k, no matter what shape they’re in. Promise!

Put your phone in a Ziploc bag if you plan to run with it.

Wear old running shoes because there’s no way you’re going to get the GA clay out ever again.

Bring dry clothes (and shoes) to change into and don’t forget extra undies.

Bring a plastic bag to throw the wet ones in when you’re done. Unless you want mud on everything dry.

Now go sign up and have fun!