THE ICWI/Jamaica Reach to Recovery Pink Run is coming up in exactly a week, with the proceeds to be used to assist breast cancer survivors to access life-saving tests and treatments. With this 5K, not only can you support charity this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but also running a 5K can provide a surprisingly comprehensive whole-body workout, despite being a primarily cardio-focused activity.

Fitness trainer Lennox Richards said here are the ways a 5k engages various parts of the body.

Quads, hamstrings, and glutes: These muscles are heavily involved in the running motion, especially for forward propulsion and stabilisation.

Calves: Your calves push off the ground with each step, working consistently throughout the run.

Hip flexors: Running helps strengthen these muscles, which assist in lifting your legs with every stride.

Abdominals and obliques: Running engages your core muscles to stabilise your body, maintain balance, and keep your posture upright during the run.

Lower back: Your lower back helps support your torso and maintain proper running form.

Biceps and triceps: While running, you naturally pump your arms, which engages your biceps and triceps.

Shoulders: The continuous movement of your arms works your shoulder muscles to a degree, especially if you keep a strong form.

Cardiovascular system: Running a 5K strengthens your heart and lungs by increasing your cardiovascular endurance. It improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, and boosts lung capacity, giving your heart and lungs a thorough workout.

Mental and muscular endurance: Running tests and improves both your mental toughness and muscular endurance, as sustaining a steady pace for the duration of a 5K requires stamina, coordination, and focus.

Bonus benefits

Bone strength: Running is a weight-bearing exercise that strengthens bones by stimulating bone growth, particularly in your legs and hips.

Calorie burn and fat loss: Running a 5K is effective for burning calories, which can help reduce body fat and improve overall body composition.

“By incorporating regular 5K runs into your routine, you’re working your entire body — cardiovascular system, muscles, and bones — while also building endurance and mental resilience,” Richards said.