Denver - A Healthy Home Base

The fittest Americans call Denver home.  Denver is consistently ranked on top ten lists throughout the United States as an active, healthy, weight conscience city.  Walk through any Denver neighborhood, and amongst the stately Denver homes and well-groomed parks you will see a constant blur of human movement.  There are joggers, walkers, bicyclists, skiers and even kayakers taking advantage of Denver‘s 300+ days of sunshine to hone their physiques and breathe in that crisp Rocky Mountain air.

Take into account that these are only the outdoor exercise enthusiasts and you can imagine the number of Denver residents enjoying their home gyms, health clubs, yoga classes and pilates studios.

The desire for a more competitive outlet has manifested itself into rugby clubs, adult kickball teams, softball, soccer and other score oriented sports.  It is easy to join teams and enjoy not only a day of sportsmanship, but a chance to meet new friends and have a pint after the match.

This healthy Denver culture that has also given rise to an impressive array of city-wide marathons.  With the spring season just around the corner and the pressure of upcoming races, Denver runners are gearing up and training hard.  These races are typically hosted by local charitable organizations as a fundraising tactic and come with little or no prize, other than the thrill of victory.

While there are runs and walks year-round, Denver‘s annual kick-off marathon is the Runnin’ of the Green on March 12, 2011.  This 7k run/walk is in its 22nd year and benefits the Volunteers of America.  In consideration of those not wanting to run, they also offer a wheelchair event and a 2-mile walk appropriately named the “Leprechaun Leap”.

Boasting the best after party of any other Denver marathon, the Runnin’ of the Green has had to cap their event at 7,000 participants.  With a nod to the Irish and St. Patrick’s Day, there will be Irish folk music, dancers and other Celtic goodies.

The urban course is set in the heart of Denver‘s LODO district with views of historic warehouses and factories that have been re-purposed to create exciting Denver real estate.  Lofts, condos, restaurants and boutiques have all taken advantage of the industrial architecture and mountain views.

And so begins another Denver marathon season.  There is a race or a walk in almost every Denver neighborhood each weekend.  Several take place in Denver‘s most popular parks, such as Wash Park or City Park, but you can also find them on the along the Highline Canal, Platte River, Cherry Creek and Colfax Avenue.

Click here for a complete list of upcoming marathons!