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Mom and Daughter at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Room
  • On Jan 16, 2012
    Amanda from PA Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi Lori! Last year my boyfriend & I were in WDW for the marathon weekend. I decided then that I would do at least one runDisney race. What would you recommend for a first race for someone who is a first time race runner?

    Hi Amanda!  Congratulations on your decision to start running! RunDisney races are a perfect place to start!  45% of the runners in all runDisney races are running a race for the first time. There are several race "corrals" at the beginning of the race.  Generally, just the first two corrals are filled with runners who are more experienced and fast.  All ages and abilities are well represented.  A lot of people walk the entire race. This is true for all Disney races. 
    I would probably choose either the Tower of Terror 10-miler or one of the half marathons for your first race.  My first half marathon was the Disney Princess in 2009.  I liked that it was mostly women.  There are tons of women there running/walking for the very first time and you get to run through the Magic Kingdom!!  I also like the Wine and Dine Half Marathon.  The positives about it:  1)it started at night, 2)you run through three parks (Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and a little of Epcot), 3)there was an after-party at Epcot.  The half marathon during Marathon Weekend is also a lot of fun.  The only reason I wouldn't choose it for a first race is because it is significantly more crowded during that weekend. (although there are more waives and corrals so the course doesn't feel more crowded)  But the sheer number of runners may be a little intimidating for a first race.  This half is the same course that you run during the Princess half. 
    I don't think you can go wrong with choosing any of these races. Check out www.jeffgalloway.com for training plans.  He is Disney's official trainer.  I use the run/walk/run method, and it is very popular with runners at all Disney races.  I also recommend signing up for a few local 5K's or 10K's during your training period.  It helps to know what a "race day" experience is like. Let me know if you have any other questions about planning for your first race!
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Meet the Panelist: Lori, Indiana

I am currently a homeschool, soccer mom to two active teenage boys. My family loves everything about Disney! Walt Disney World, Disneyland, runDisney, Disney Cruise Line and Disney Vacation Club have been a part of countless magical memories for us through the years. I cannot wait to help you make your own magical memories at Walt Disney World! Learn More About Lori

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