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Couch to 5k: Spartan 5K promotes active living
Published 10:30am Wednesday, August 29, 2012The Third Annual Spartan 5k at M State is just over three weeks away. Over the last two years the event has grown, and this year promises to be the best event yet. In previous years, area businesses have competed in a team challenge to produce the fastest team. This year, the Spartan 5k has worked with a community-wide Get Off The Couch effort to encourage people to run, walk, or jog their first 5k.
The Spartan 5k was started two years ago by Dave Jensen, Student Recruiter at M State. The event serves as a fundraiser for the Fergus Area College Foundation, which provides student scholarships. The Spartan 5k was previously scheduled in conjunction with the M State Homecoming. This year the event will occur the week before homecoming. The Spartan 5k is an opportunity for the community to utilize and enjoy the college facilities.
The Spartan 5k is part of a trend in the community of increased opportunities for active people. A few events had their inaugural year in 2012 (the Central Lakes Cycle Duathlon, the Running Wild Trail Run at Maplewood, and the Viking Challenge.) Other events continue to thrive and grow in popularity (the Hoot Lake Triathlon, Athletic Republic 5K and Half Marathon, the Turkey Trot.)
If you haven’t started training for the Spartan 5k, it’s not too late. You may decide to walk your first 5k with friends or family. Most people decide to begin running or walking to lose weight or reduce stress. Many people continue to exercise due to the social aspects of exercise. Find a training partner and get off the couch for the Spartan 5k on September 22nd. See more information about the event at www.spartan5krun.com.
