Run Off Those Holiday Pounds with January Road Races

Over the past month, my office saw its fair share of chocolate, cookies and other holiday treats. It can be hard to resist. But no fear –- there are plenty of road races in January to help run off the holiday pounds.

Atlanta Track Club Resolution Run in Kennesaw – January 1
Along with the 5K and 10K courses, this family-friendly event includes a 1-mile fun run and a tot trot. Register online through today (December 29). Keep in mind that on-site registration is not available. For more info, visit the ATC site.

Wonderful Days of Winter 5K – January 2
Proceeds from the race support Marietta’s Wonderful Days Preschool, which is a pre-K program that serves low-income families. Top finishers receive handmade awards. Registration is available at Active.com.

Run with the Dogs: Frostbite 5K Run/Walk – January 9
This neighborhood run benefits sports programs at Decatur High School and Renfro Middle School. Don’t leave your four-legged friend at home – the race is open to runners with dogs. The event starts and ends at Decatur H.S. Registration is available at Active.com or you can sign-up at Decatur H.S. on race day.

Marietta Polar Bear Run 5K/2K – January 23
Johnson Ferry Baptist Church plays host to this annual event. The race is limited to 2,000 runners and on-site registration is not available. While it may be cold outside, post-race festivities take place inside the church’s Family Life Center. You can register at Active.com or at Big Peach Running Co.

Eagle Run 5K - January 23
In Alpharetta? Check out this event. The race course runs through Will’s Park, located off of Old Milton Parkway. Proceeds benefit the Milton Boys Lacrosse Team. Registration is available at Active.com or on-site at the event.

Tartan Trot: Fun Run, Tot Trot, 5K and 10K – January 30
St. Luke's Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody hosts this local race, with proceeds supporting the church’s youth outreach program. Got a young runner? Bring them along for the free tot trot. You can sign-up at Big Peach Running Co, St. Luke’s or online at Active.com. On-site registration is also available.

Around Peachtree Battle 5K - January 30
Here’s an opportunity to “do good” while you run. The race benefits the Atlanta Union Mission’s shelter for women and children. Runners are encouraged to bring canned food, clothes and other items for donation to the shelter. The race takes place in the Haynes Manor neighborhood, near W. Wesley Road and Northside Parkway. Register online at Active.com.