Train for a 5K in Parsippany

Training for a 5K is a great way to boost your cardiovascular health, reduce stress or simply add more running to your routine. And with the end of summer's temperatures (slowly) becoming more manageable, this is the perfect time.

Luckily, Parsippany is a great place to prepare, with trails at Mountain Way Park (for those who like a little rugged with their run; be careful after Sept. 8, when deer season opens) and the track at .

A 5K, or 3.1 miles, is perfect for beginners, but it does take some training to gain the endurance to go the distance. Raina Hafer, NCSF, certified personal trainer and running specialist, shares her shape-up tips for success.

Commit to a Race.  Many local charities and organizations host 5K races in the area, so you'll be raising money for a good cause even as you meet your fitness goal. Choose a race date that allows you ample time to prepare. New runners typically need between 8-10 weeks to train, while those who are already active may only need 6.

Click here to find a race nearby and choose one that is the right fit for you.

If you're already in training, consider the Share the Care - 5k Run/Walk/Kids Fun Run scheduled for Thursday in Morris Plains. If you need an event a little farther out on the calendar, no worries: The Morris County Heart Walk and 5K Run takes place in Parsippany Oct. 14 and the PurpleStride New Jersey, which raises funds to combat pancreatic cancer, is on Nov. 4. Both give you the opportunity to show off your stride and do some good for others—and you will have ample time to prepare beforehand.

Hafer says it’s also smart to tell friends and family about your upcoming race.

“By doing so, you're less likely to drop out of the race and will also get a ton of motivational support to propel you across the finish line,” she says.

Find a Group. Connecting with others to prepare for a race can make training less overwhelming, and can help you stick to your training schedule. You won’t want to let your running buddies down by skipping a workout. Look for a running group that meets at the local YMCA or check out CoolRunning.com to find listings of other local groups.

Follow a schedule. Once you've signed up for a race, you'll need to create a training schedule.  Hafer personally loves the Couch to 5K app, which is great for beginners and super user friendly. Plus, at only 30 minutes, three times per week, it’s the perfect program for even the most time-strapped runner.

In addition to scheduled runs, more advanced runners should cross train twice a week. Hafer suggests cycling, yoga or strength training, activities which increase muscle strength and flexibility and ultimately help you become a stronger runner.

Work on Endurance. Building up the stamina to run a 5K is something that takes time. When you begin training don’t be afraid to alternate between running and walking, says Hafer. Run at a speed where you can comfortably hold a conversation until you become too tired to continue and then begin walking. Once you’ve caught your breath, return to running. Over time, you will be able to walk less and run more, until you can eventually run the entire distance.

Enjoy Race Day! On race day be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before the actual start time to register and warm up. Most importantly though, have fun running the race! You’ve worked hard to get there, so enjoy completing such a great accomplishment.