Global Running Day is upon us (Wednesday, June 6, 2018) — which basically means it’s the one day per year that we get to talk about running to all of our friends and they can’t (justifiably) get annoyed by us. One thing runners love to do is talk about running and Global Running Day gives us all the reasons to talk about it MORE.

Here is a fun list of things you can do on Global Running Day.

1. Go for a run. Keep it simple.

Don’t be intimidated by the moisture-wicking clothes, specialty shoes, cool glasses that match the socks, GPS watches and everything in between. When it comes down to the basics, all you really need is some time and the desire to make it happen. When I started running, I did it in basketball shoes and a pair shorts that went down to my knees… but the mile was still the same distance as everyone else’s. Keep it simple and go for a 20 minute run—10 minutes out, and 10 minutes back. Don’t sprint, keep it at a comfortable pace where you could hold a casual conversation if running with a friend. For beginners, keep in mind that the goal is time spent running, not the distance covered. Build up to achievable goals.

2. Run it Forward

This takes point number one and adds some motivation. Brooks just launched a campaign where they are encouraging runners to dedicate their run to something greater. “This #GlobalRunningDay, join Brooks in celebrating the power of the run. Use your miles to bring joy to your community, show appreciation for the places you run, and connect with the people you love.” It could be a run dedicated to the community, environment, or love. Anything to give your run a sense of purpose. If you want to kick it up a notch, challenge/encourage your friends to join in on the fun (they can pledge their miles as well). And of course, share it on social with the hashtag #runitforward to spread the word.

3. Run Local

On Global Running Day, I’ll be running with Lululemon in San Francisco and joining them as they “Chase The Lights.” It’s a cool idea started by a San Francisco resident and the rules are simple: Pick a starting point, pick a finishing point, and get from point A to point B by following these rules “run straight through green lights and turn left or right at red lights. No stopping to wait, no running through red lights.” Sounds fun right?

Although this might not be an option in your neighborhood, many of your local running stores are likely to be hosting some sort of organized fun run. Ask around, or see if a group of friends want to join you for some laps around your local track or park.

4. Register for a race.

Now we are talking. Most races will be promoting some sort of discount code or offer to get you to register for their race. The Rock ’n’ Roll race series is hosting their annual sale. These prices are unbelievable and tend to sell out pretty quickly as registrations at the lowest price point are limited in quantity. Check out your favorite race series online or pull up their social media channels to see what they have cooking.

5. Go shopping.

As if we needed another reason. Many of your favorite fitness brands will also be having some sort of sale. Same as above, do a simple search or check out their social feed.

6. Invite a friend — or ask to join.

This is the perfect opportunity to spread the running love. If you know someone who has been hesitant about running, or always seems to have a “reason” not to join you. Try to make it happen on GRD. Conversely, if you have been hesitant to get out there yourself, now is the time to give it a try. Ask a friend if you can join them on a run. Be honest about your abilities and what you think you are capable of doing comfortably. Most runners would love to share the experience of running with a friend.

7. Learn that running can sometimes suck

Yep. You read that right. I’m going to be honest here: the first few miles of most of my runs are NOT fun. GASP. There, I said it. For me, it takes a minute for my body to warm-up and get used to what I am asking it to do. But it gets better. It takes time. We wouldn’t keep running if there wasn’t something enjoyable about it. The key is to start out easy so that you want to do it again. Don’t go all out and stress your body for 5 miles if you haven’t run in years. That’s a terrible idea and you are likely to feel deflated and frustrated. Start with 20 minutes and build from there.

How will you be spending Global Running Day?