Hi, Leslie!
I'm so excited to hear you a interested in participating in your first race event! And I can't think of a better race series to train for than
runDisney.
The difference between events is mainly theming. For example, the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is a female-focused race weekend centered around the Disney Princesses, where as the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend ties into the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival happening at the time. You'll find each race has its own unique feel and focus.
In addition to theming, each race weekend offers different distances available for you to run; including:
5K (3.1 miles)
10K (6.2 miles)
Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
Marathon (26.2 miles)
And a few Race Challenges
The first step in getting started is to pick the distance you'd like to run. Next, pick your race by looking at the current calendar of
runDisney events. With so many races to choose from at both Disney Parks locations, there's sure to be a race that fits into your schedule. Then.... it's time to get training! I also highly recommend utilizing the run/walk/run method created by the official
runDisney Training Consultant, Jeff Galloway. This way of running has proven to be exceptionally effective at preventing injury and allowing you to run farther than you thought possible.
These are the first steps in beginning your running journey, Leslie! I also know you'll have many more questions along the way, so please do not hesitate to reach out to me! I am here to help.
Happy Running!
Faith