Six Ways to Celebrate National Running Day

National Running Day is Wednesday. It's a time for runners everywhere to celebrate their sport and show their passion. 

There's no shortage of runners in Gilroy. You see them logging time on the levee, getting their miles in the neighborhoods surrounding Debell Uvas Creek Preserve or heading out of town to hit trails in nearby Henry W. Coe State Park. 

So for all the runners around town—and those who wish they had the motivation, desire or ability to join them—here are ways to celebrate National Running Day.

1. Go for a run (d'oh!). 
2. Register for a local race. This is a great motivator, whether you're an experienced runner who has grown bored with the usual workouts or someone looking to be more athletic. The Henry Coe 5k/10k Fun Run and Walk is this Saturday in Gilroy. If you're planning a little farther out, consider the Morgan Hill Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K in October.
3. Read about running. Try Born to Run, the 2009 bestseller by Christopher McDougall that inspired a lot of people to hit the trails—many of them barefoot. 
4. Find a running group. The Santa Cruz Track Club meets for workouts a couple times a week, and Team In Training almost always has a group training for an event. Both are good options if you're looking for a coach to guide your exercise.
5. Be healthier. Getting adequate sleep, eating your vegetables and drinking lots of water will make you feel better, which translates into better running. 
6. Download some running jams. Rocking some tunes can help you through the lowest moments of your run. Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run," Michael Jackson's "Beat It," and "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor are classics. 

Bonus: The Rock'n'Roll Marathon series is offering a one-day $20 discount on all their events for those who sign up Wednesday. The San Jose Rock'n'Roll Half Marathon is Oct. 20, and the San Francisco installment is April 6. 

And if National Running Day isn't your thing, don't fear. National Donut Day is coming up on Friday.