!["Color Runs," such as the upcoming Color Vibe 5K in Vallejo, are said to be one of the fastest growing races, with events being held all around the world in 2013.](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/93/f2/93f2e0aa3dd90798ce94887b49c09b13.jpg?itok=ld9b665Z ""Color Runs," such as the upcoming Color Vibe 5K in Vallejo, are said to be one of the fastest growing races, with events being held all around the world in 2013.")
Post-holiday humdrum got you down? Try the perfect antidote to the dreariness of winter with a fun-filled day at the Color Vibe 5K in Vallejo. The event takes place on Jan. 19 at 9 a.m. at the Solano County Fairgrounds, where willing participants will line up to get blasted with different shades of non-toxic paint at “color zones” throughout the race.
Color runs are just the latest fad in running events, which have grown increasingly popular (and extensively wackier) in recent years. In fact, the Active network, a leading endurance sports company, reported that themed races such as the Spartan Race and the Color Run had more than a million participants in 2012. And with more than 50 events planned for 2013, these rainbow-themed color races are only picking up steam in 2013.
But before you deck yourself in winter white only to end up looking like a Jackson Pollack painting at finish line, check out these five tips from Color Vibe on getting ready for one of these colorful 5Ks:
- Prepare. Depending on your running ability, it's important to get your body accustomed to a 5K race. Regardless of whether your training schedule involves intense conditioning or simply stretching every day for five minutes, make sure you can walk at least three consecutive miles before race day to avoid injuries.
- Hydrate. The day before a race is absolutely critical for hydration. Drink approximately 64 ounces of water throughout the day, switching to light sips of water to keep hydrated on race morning. And don’t forget to replenish lost fluids with anywhere from 32 to 64 ounces of water after the event.
- Before the race. Arrive at the starting line at least 30 minutes before the race begins. This will give you time to stretch, warm-up and get your body used to the temperature. Also, the extra time will be helpful if you still need to register for the race, find parking or relieve yourself before the gun goes off.
- Color Vibe dress. Dress according to the temperature: Think sweats or long pants if the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and shorts or yoga pants if the temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. For best color results, wear white. And if you don't want color in your hair or mouth, simply cover that area with a bandana.
- Go all out. The old saying "you get out what you put in” goes for these themed races, too. Bring your friends, spouses, girlfriends, boyfriends, kids, cousins, grandparents – the whole crew – and just have fun!
For more information, go to TheColorVibe.com or register via Active.com.
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