Today (June 3, 2009) is the first annual National Running Day. In celebration of the inaugural event, running organizations and enthusiasts alike are planning local events to encourage Americans of all ages and fitness levels to lace up their shoes, go for a run, and invite a friend to join them. Organizers hope to encourage everyone, everywhere to take the first step toward incorporating running as a part of a daily routine.Check with your local running store to see if there are any events planned in your area or just get out there and run! RunningDay.org has some great information for beginning runners as well as general information about the day and its purpose. If you're a new runner or just beginning to think about running, this is a great time to set a goal for yourself and connect with other runners. Your goal might just be running to your mailbox or it might be to run a marathon. Doesn't matter. Just get out there! That first step will lead to many more. I promise. Happy running!