I love to run, but sometimes it is hard to get out of bed and make a commitment to do it.

I decided to get myself back into shape after Wichita State announced the 17th annual 5K Pumpkin Run on Oct. 20th and may bring a friend along for the ride.

Running isn’t a lonesome, gruesome experience when it is shared with friends and a realistic goal is in sight.

Other than the health benefits, running is a great way to get involved.

“It’s good for the community whether you decide to walk or run it,” Shelley Rich, associate director of programs for Fitness and Wellness for Campus Recreation, said. “It’s the most economical race found in the city for students. Faculty can participate, and it’s a great way for the community to be on campus.”

Last year there were about 660 participants: half community members, half students.

“Every year the community tells me how unique it is to be able to run with college students,” Rich said.

To enhance the community vibe, Rich said pumpkin painting after the race could be an added feature this year.

The race only costs $12 for students, and they are guaranteed a T-shirt if they register before Oct. 12.

Not only are participants improving their physical health, but they are supporting a good cause. Anyone may make a donation to the Leukemia Society aside from the run’s registration cost.

The Pumpkin Run was started in honor of Wayne Carlisle, the director of placement and career services for eight years at WSU. Carlisle died from leukemia on Dec. 17, 1991.

“He was just a strong person and really good runner,” Trudy Calloway, office manager at the Heskett, said. “He was really supportive of the race.”

An extra benefit of the Pumpkin Run is the chance to act a little out of the ordinary. Sometimes college can be stressful and everyone needs some time to be goofy.

“Everyone is encouraged to dress up,” graduate assistant of Fitness and Wellness Kaysee Barr said. “It’s just kind of more fun to see a bear running than a person.”

To celebrate Halloween runners are encouraged to dress up and compete in the costume contest.

One year a whole family dressed up as characters in the Wizard of Oz and for the past two years a man has juggled while running, Rich said.

There are ways to get fit without realizing it is hard work with good company and a sense of humor. Participants can sign-up co-workers to run in the group competition or grab a friend and start training together.

If running isn’t an option, walking is always a wonderful substitute that gets you moving without the wear and tear on your joints and bones.

Slow and steady my training continues, but I am looking forward to the self-satisfaction I will feel once I cross the finish line.