By Meg Hodson
This is a sponsored post for Shout. While I received compensation for my post, all opinions, beliefs, and writing remain my own.
This past weekend, I did something I have never done before. I have thought about participating in a 5K before, but I am not sure what has held me back. Fear of not finishing? Pressure to run fast the whole time? Well, I put those anxieties behind me when I hit The Color Run this past Saturday in Portland.
If you aren't familiar with The Color Run, you can read more about it in my previous post. One of the main reasons I was drawn to The Color Run was because it was called a "run", not a "race". It wasn't a timed event. The emphasis was on being happy, being healthy, and having a good time. This vibe was obvious when my swag arrived from Shout®, who teamed up with The Color Run this year to not only emphasize the fun-factor, but to help with the obvious clean-up afterwards. This was perfect for me. A fun 5K where I get to wear some super cute accessories? Sign me up!
Obviously, one of the highlights was running through the 5 color stations, getting doused and becoming colorful. Who knew having colored powder thrown on you could be so fun?
In my first walk/run on a 5K, I had a great time with the team I had assembled for Color Run sponsor Shout®. I assembled a group of amazing women and we all did just that....had FUN together. I wasn't expecting to feel as inspired and motivated as I did when I made it to those finish line arches. But I did! I'm already thinking about the next 5K hurdle I can tackle.
But the good times did not stop once I crossed the finish line. Waiting for the participants at the end was the lively and loud Color Run stage, with a DJ blasting loud music, hitting people with even more color, and inviting runners up on stage. My team and I got the unique opportunity to line the stage and help with the big launch of the #ShoutItOut orange color throw. SO fun!
It's hard to see a fun day like this end! I chose to walk through the Shout® Clean Zone and dust off before heading to my car. I still had plenty of color on me, though!
Shout® wants to make sure the fun doesn't end. Check out the Shout It Out Fun Finder to find fun in your area and beyond. Let's keep the fun going!