I've done a couple of 5k runs. One was the warrior dash couple yrs ago. A group of us done it together and it was a blast all around, the race, the entertainment, the food. Would like to do it again sometime. I also did a color run with my wife. It was in H'Ville and after half a mile I was having some bad shin splints and walked Half of it off and on. So I believe it about good shoes making a difference.

I like the themed runs though. Kinda take your mind off of the fatigue.