(can also be viewed with graphics at https://isolatorfitness.com/blog/fun-run-what-is-your-ideal-5k/)

So you’ve decided that you’re going to participate in a 5k fun run this year. Good for you! The only thing left to figure out is what kind of race fits you best, so that you can be sure to maximize your fun while you run. And lucky you, we’ve got you covered! We’ve compiled a list of the best 5k races and separated them into three different fun filled categories to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for a new type of 5k challenge to spice things up, or new to the running scene and looking for something silly to peak your interest and keep you motivated you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here.

Fun Run – For The Big Kids

Insane Inflatable 5K

fun run, insane inflatable 5k

Image Courtesty Of: Insane Inflatable 5K http://insaneinflatable5k.com/locations/

Instagram: @insaneinflatable5K

Age Requirement: None – But You must Be At Least 42” Tall

Run, bounce, jump, and slide your way through this 3.1 mile long obstacle course. Since the entire race is not comprised of inflatable bouncing obstacles, they can be skipped if you start to run out of steam, but since the race itself is more about having fun and being active than it is about making good time, why not at least try them all? This is an untimed race that is open to all ages, as long as you meet the 42” height requirement, for safety and mobility on the inflatable obstacles.

The R.O.C. Race

fun run, r.o.c. race

Image Courtesy of: R.O.C. Race: https://rocrace.com/

Instagram: @rocrace

Age Requirement: 13+

The R.O.C. Race stands for Ridiculous Obstacle Challenge Race, and trust us, the race stands up to it’s name! This game show inspired fun run, has something to satisfy the adventurer in us all. From the sweeper: thats goal is to literally knock you off of your feet, to the jump balls: that will test your balance and will power, and even the hippo: a four story tall water slide, this race is every bit as ridiculous as the name promises. Due to some obstacles, the R.O.C. race does have a 13+ age requirement, for the safety of all active participants.

5K Bare Dare

fun run, bare dare 5k

Image Courtesy of: 5K Bare Dare https://www.facebook.com/Caliente-Bare-Dare-5K-142748082405276/timeline

Age Requirement: 18+

This race is unique in the fact that it is completely clothing optional. It is held at a private resort in Florida called Caliente, and marketed towards runners who are looking to shed their inhibitions and their clothes, for a freeing and natural naked run. About 85% of participants choose to run the race in nothing but sneakers, although it is completely up to the individual about how much, or how little they want to wear. A great fun run for the bucket list, but leave the kids at home for this one.

Electric Run

fun run, electric run

Image Courtesy Of Electric Run: http://electricrun.com/

Instagram: @electricrun

Age Requirement: None

If running isn’t really for you, but you’ve always wanted to try a 5K, then this might just be the perfect fun run for you. With the blaring music, and the flashing lights, this race seems more like a high energy dance party than a race. There is no age requirement for this race, but since it does take place at night with loud music, it might be best to leave the little ones at home. Feel free to invite the older kids to come and party it up with you though, since this race is a great opportunity to introduce even the most reluctant runner to races.

Rock n’ Roll Marathon Series

fun run, rock n roll series

Photo Courtesy of Rock n’ Roll Marathon: http://www.runrocknroll.com/

Instagram: @runrocknroll

Age Requirement: None for 5K, 12+ for Half Marathon, and 18+ for Full Marathon

While the rock n roll marathon series races can be a ton of fun with the high energy, live music blaring throughout the route, and spectators cheering you on from the sidelines, it is recommended for experienced racers, as it is a timed course with a time limit. Also no strollers are allowed, for the safety of all participants, so it may be best to leave the young ones at home.

Fun Run – Get Messy

Color Run

fun run, color run

Photo Courtesy Of: The Color Run: http://thecolorrun.com/events/

Instagram: @thecolorrun

Age Requirement: None

Participants of all ages and fitness levels are welcome in this fun run. Runners are encouraged to wear all white during the race, because colorful powder is thrown onto them throughout the race to brighten their wardrobes. These races boast the self given title of the “Happiest 5K on the Planet” due to their laid back nature and focus on fun. The Color Run has donated over $4 million dollars to charity since its beginning in 2012.

Foam Glow 5K

fun run, foam glow 5k

Photo Courtesy of Foam Glow: http://www.foamglow.com/

Are Requirement: None

Since this race is dedicated to Childhood Cancer Awareness it is open to runners, and participants of all ages, and is designed to be fun and festive for everyone involved. Runners under 5 are even free and strollers are welcome for the tiniest of tots. Participants are encouraged to wear as much white as possible so that at the after party they’ll glow brightly under the blacklights with all of the foam glow colors that have been sprayed on them throughout the race.

Dirty Girl 5K Mud Run

fun run, dirty girl 5k

Image Courtesy of Dirty Girl Mud Run: http://godirtygirl.com/locations/

Instagram: @godirtygirl

Age Requirement: 14+ and remember you must be a girl to participate

This is the first all-female 5K, open to girls of all ages and fitness levels. It has fun themed obstacles like: the hot mess, down and dirty, get over yourself, you go girl, and runaway bride, that are designed to push and challenge you pash your limits. Due to the muddy nature of the run it is advised that you don’t wear your “good” gym clothes or anything else that you would mind getting stained with a little dirt and mud.

Warrior Dash

fun run, warrior dash

Image Courtesy of Warrior Dash: https://www.warriordash.com/locations/

Instagram: @warriordash

Age Requirement: 12+

Runners of a variety of fitness levels can participate in the Warrior Dash, which was the first mud and obstacle race, in over 40 different locations, making it the perfect choice, if you’re just starting out in this arena. Since the race is flexible about obstacle participation, this race is an ideal choice if you want to try out a mud race, but aren’t sure if your physical prowess is up to it yet. Feel free to bring out your older children and make it a family event since you only need to be 12 to participate in this fun run.

Rugged Maniac

fun run, rugged maniac

Image Courtesy Of: Rugged Maniac: http://www.ruggedmaniac.com/events/

Instagram: @ruggedmaniac

Age Requirement: 14+

Are you an advanced runner who has participated in mud and obstacle races before, and looking for something a little more challenging to get your blood pumping? If so the Rugged Maniac races are perfect for you. With over 20 high intensity obstacles to complete and fierce competition, this race is guaranteed to bring out the next level competitor in you. You must be at least fourteen to complete in this race and it is advised that you be in good physical health due to the volume and difficulty of the obstacles.

Armageddon Ambush

fun run, armageddon ambush

Photo Courtesy Of: Armageddon Ambush

Instagram: @Armageddon_Ambush

Age Requirement: 14+

Having a hard time deciding between a fun loving color run and an intense challenging mud and obstacle race? Stop beating yourself up trying to decide between the two, and sign up for this colorful, muddy, mess of a fun run! Runners ages fourteen and up are welcome to run in the race, and participate in the after party, but as an added bonus for those runners who are twenty one or older a complimentary beer will also be awaiting you when you cross the finish line.

Fun Run – Dress Up

Walt Disney Fun Run

fun run, walt disney 5K

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Fun Run: http://www.rundisney.com/disneyworld-marathon/#family-fun-run-5k

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RunDisney/

Age Requirement: None

Take a trip to Disney World, and experience a magical side of the parks that’s only open to active adventurers. This 5K race is open to members of the entire family, regardless of ages or physical fitness levels. Dressing up like your favorite Disney characters is encouraged as a way to bring out a little bit more of that Walt Disney World magic during your run. It truly is fun for the whole family.

Zombie Mud Run

fun run, zombie run

Photo Courtesy of Zombie Mud Run: http://www.thezombiemudrun.com/

Age Requirements: 13+

If the zombie apocalypse sounds like fun to you, then check out the Zombie Mud Run, where you can register either as a zombie or a human. During the race those registered as humans are expected to complete a variety of muddy obstacles while running from, and trying to escape the clutches of those who registered as zombies. For the younger crowd a zombie mud run junior is offered for anyone who is under the age of 13 that may want to participate in the fun.

Bad Prom Run

fun run, bad prom run

Photo Courtesy of Bad Prom: http://www.badprom.com/

Age Requirement: None

Wear your old prom gear, or hit up a thrift store to shop for the tackiest, or most outrageous outfit for this prom themed fun run. Most proms are a major let down due to unmet high expectations, but this bad prom run is all the rage, because there are no expectations of once in a lifetime happiness, and romance; just fun, action, music, and a ton of really rad pictures you’ll love looking back on and laughing at. There is no age limit to join, but to create a team you must be at least eighteen years of age.

Mustache Dache

fun run, mustache dashe

Photo Courtesy of: Mustache Dache

Age Requirement: None

I mustache you a question. Do you love running but hate being judged for your super awesome, manly, 1970’s, curly, waxed mustache at every 5K that you sign up for? Well look no farther my friend because this fun run was designed with you in mind! All jokes aside, this race supports Prostate Cancer Awareness and is a great way to give back to an important and worthy cause. So strap on your stash, and lace up your shoes, cause the mustache dashe is coming for you!

No matter what 5K race you decide to participate in, remember that keeping your body well fueled and properly hydrated is half the battle. Make sure that you are prepared for anything by packing all of the food and water that you’re going to need for the day in your ISOBag, and if you’re traveling to participate in any of these events, don’t forget the versatility of the ISOPack and ISODuffle, for your packing needs. Most importantly get out there, get active, and have fun!

Author's Bio: 

Lexi Cahill is a Penn State University graduate with a degree in Mass Communications & Media Studies. She is a humanitarian who is enthusiastic about giving back to her local and global community through both monetary donations and community service. She has sponsored a child from Ethiopia through Compassion and volunteered locally at both the Lititz Community Recreational Center (where she was a summer camp counselor for children), and the Lititz Moravian Manor (where she provided companionship to the Alzheimer's patients). Her dedication to helping improve the lives of others is what drives her. She has turned her passions for writing and humanity into a career with Isolator Fitness where she shares her knowledge of nutrition, fitness, and general health through articles published on their website. All of Lexi’s articles can also be viewed at the blog (https://isolatorfitness.com/blog/)