BY: RACHEL WUMKES

As our days of quarantine and self-isolation are slowly ending, I’ve begun to realize the hours I spent binge-watching Tiger King and eating all the food in sight has been a bit detrimental to my health. The extra pounds are not welcome here, and it’s time to get back up, get out, and get moving again.

Thankfully, the universe has aligned with my goal as we celebrate Global Running Day and World Bicycle Day.  If we just had a swimming day in there, it would be a perfect TRI-fecta to celebrate.

Get it… swim, bike, run? 

Global Running Day is a worldwide celebration of running that encourages people to get moving.  Its mission seems more important than ever right now, as people around the globe begin to peel themselves off the couch after being stuck at home for days on end.  Running is a great way to stay active and healthy, but also releases anxiety, and helps gain perspective when dealing with cabin fever.

A fun way to celebrate this holiday is to take the Run1/Tag1 challenge on social media.  This fun activity calls on people across the globe to celebrate Global Running Day by running 1 mile and then tagging a friend to do the same, creating a chain effect of runners throughout the world.

World Bicycle Day was recently designated to occur on June 3rd by the United Nations.  This celebration includes a variety of bike rides all around the earth to celebrate the many cycling benefits.  Bicycles are one of the most important tools in the history of mobility and will be ridden by more than 800 million people this year.

Not only does the bicycle provide a reliable form of transportation for many, but it is a healthy, fun activity used for leisure as well as physical fitness.

And while there is no National Holiday to celebrate the swim portion this week, Mother Nature has provided us with a warm front for all to enjoy.  Water temps are still a bit on the chilly side for open water swim sessions, but the heat this week will definitely help with that.  Soon, you’ll be able to ditch the wetsuit and enjoy the cool, refreshing water off State Beach as you get your swim sessions in to prepare for TRI Clear Lake.

Speaking of… have you registered yet?  As we were forced to push the event back due to restrictions and concerns surrounding COVID-19, you have a second chance to make the conscious decision to give it a TRI.  Even if it’s something you’ve never done before, something completely out of your comfort zone, I have confidence that you can do it.

TRI Clear Lake is the perfect event for beginners, as well as the experienced triathlete.  The organizers and volunteers are SUPER helpful and will be there to answer any questions and calm any fears or concerns you may have about the event.

Plus, the new date for the event is Labor Day weekend!  What a perfect opportunity to create a fun-filled getaway to commemorate the end of summer.  Clear Lake has SO many things to do. Check out our website – www.clearlakeiowa.com – for a full listing of restaurants, lodging, events and more!

And to get signed up for TRI Clear Lake go to: https://runsignup.com/Race/IA/ClearLake/TRIClearLake19 and follow the prompts to complete your registration.

Whether you’re swimming, biking, or running… we’ll see you at the Lake!