Jumping out of planes, abseiling down the side of a skyscraper, and shaving off long locks — there’s not much that people won’t do for charity. However, showing your support for a good cause doesn’t always need to be so dramatic. Take the HBF Run for a Reason as an example.
Back for its 11th year on Sunday 21 May, this celebrated event encourages anyone of any age and any fitness level to don their joggers and hit the pavement in the name of charity, health, and big community spirit.
Up to 37,000 people are expected to join this year, working towards a collective goal of $1.1 million in donations. Over the past 10 years, runners have raised over $10 million for nearly 200 charities, including Lifeline, The Heart Foundation, and The Cancer Council.
“Watching our community applaud the return of this event has been so special to see, and for our 11th year, we’re celebrating togetherness more than ever. This is so much more than just a run for HBF, it’s an opportunity for us to bring people together for charity – or just for themselves and make a difference through movement. We’re ready to turn the Perth CBD into a sea of positivity,” HBF General Manager of Marketing and Engagement, Louise Ardagh, said.
How to enter HBF Run for a Reason
Get ready for an action-packed day for the fun-seekers, PB pushers, and goal-smashers. Anyone can enter, even if you’re not a pro runner – and registering is super easy.
Simply head online, choose your distance, and pay the entry fee. You don’t have to be an HBF member to enter, but those who are receive a 20% discount on entry fees. Starting a fundraising page for your choice of charity is an optional addition, though it’s recommended if there’s a cause you’re passionate about.
There are three distances you can register for — the Commonwealth Bank 4km, the Specsavers 12km, or the Brooks Half Marathon. All three courses start on the corner of Hay Street and William Street and finish at Gloucester Park.
Here’s what you’ll be missing if you don’t enter now:
- A collectable t-shirt*
- A finish-line medal (to wear to work on Monday)
- Free entertainment every step of the way – from DJs to bagpipes to Bollywood dancers.
- Free public transport, until 3 pm
- Free massages post-run to start your recovery session
- Free good vibes, heaps of them, everywhere
Getting run-ready
While the name of the game is to have fun, HBF has some great tips to get you run-ready. No matter which distance you choose to challenge yourself with and whether you’re a regular or casual runner, proper prep can help to prevent injury. There’s the obvious preparation — like building up your running stamina by heading out on runs in the lead-up to the event — and some potentially less obvious things you can do, too.
Upping the ante on running training will take its toll on the body. For those training for longer distances, it’s important you give your body ample time to rest between runs. As a general rule, the body needs a full 24-48 hours post-run to recover, sometimes more, depending on your fitness level, running experience, and the length and intensity of the run. Double down on the muscle prep and consider adding regular stretching sessions to your regime. Consider it your insurance policy against muscle strain.
Hot tip: If running isn’t normally in your repertoire, it’s a good idea to book a quick health check-up before starting your training. Checking things like your blood pressure and heart health prior to changing your workout schedule is just extra assurance that your body can weather the amount of exercise you’re adding in.
HBF will have hydration stations along the course – but be sure to up your fluids in the days leading up to Run-day. Having some electrolyte drinks or icy poles ready is a great way to replenish fluids and can help your muscles recover too.
Time for a running buddy?
Having a running buddy makes training for (and completing) the HBF Run for a Reason that much more fun.
Recruiting your friends, family, or acquaintances for the event is easy when there are major perks. If the solidarity of working towards a common goal (say, running the Commonwealth Bank 4km in a certain amount of time or raising money for a charity dear to your heart) isn’t quite enough to lure them in – why not suggest a colourful team outfit for everyone on the day. Tutus, face paint, and matching crazy hats are all highly encouraged. The promise of a hot breakfast post-run is also a good incentive. And what about that free post-run massage?
If all else fails, a bit of digital coercing by means of tagging them in HBF Run for a Reason social posts never goes astray.
We look forward to seeing you at the start line on Sunday 21 May.
Tell us your favourite running/walking trail and win
To celebrate the return of the HBF Run for a Reason we are giving away the ultimate runners pack. Simply enter our Instagram competition below for your chance to win.
*While stocks last.
This article is sponsored by HBF.
Find out about the latest events in Perth at So Perth
Lead image: supplied
