This October, Let's Run for Something Bigger

Imagine waking up on an October morning, lacing up your running shoes, and knowing that thousands of people across the country are doing the exact same thing.

Some will be heading out before sunrise. Others will squeeze in a lunchtime run or finish their day with a few miles after work. Every runner will have a different route, a different pace, and a different story—but for one week, we'll all be connected by a shared purpose: supporting our mental well-being through running.

That's the vision behind National Run for Mental Health Week, a brand-new annual movement from Still I Run taking place October 3–10.

For the past 10 years, Still I Run has worked to show that running can be a powerful tool for supporting our mental health. We've seen firsthand how a run can help clear a busy mind, create a sense of accomplishment on difficult days, provide a healthy outlet for stress, and remind us that progress is possible one step at a time.

We believe those experiences deserve to be celebrated—not just by our community, but by runners everywhere.

That's why we created National Run for Mental Health Week.

One Week. One Shared Purpose.

National Run for Mental Health Week isn't a race. It isn't a training plan. And it isn't about how many miles you run.

It's eight days dedicated to celebrating the positive role running can play in our mental well-being while encouraging more conversations around mental health.

Whether you're training for your next marathon, building back after time away, or simply heading out for your regular morning run, every mile you log during the week becomes part of something much larger.

Throughout the week, we'll be celebrating runners from across the country, sharing stories from our community, highlighting the latest research connecting running and mental health, and offering practical tips to help you care for your mind as intentionally as you care for your body.

Every day will bring something new to look forward to.

More Than Miles: Here's What You Can Expect

When you register for National Run for Mental Health Week, you're joining a week-long experience designed to inspire, educate, and connect runners everywhere.

Here's a preview of what's waiting for you:

The Official Strava Challenge

One of the highlights of the week will be our official National Run for Mental Health Week Strava Challenge.

You'll have the opportunity to log your miles alongside runners from around the world, celebrate your progress throughout the week, and see how this movement is growing one run at a time.

Even better? Everyone who completes the challenge will unlock a special National Run for Mental Health Week prize pack. It's our way of saying thank you for being part of this inaugural year and helping us build something we hope will continue for years to come.

Daily Mental Health & Running Content

Each day during National Run for Mental Health Week, we'll deliver fresh content designed to support both your running journey and your mental well-being.

You'll receive educational articles, practical mental wellness tips, inspiring stories from the Still I Run community, and encouragement to help you keep moving—both physically and mentally.

Our goal is to provide content that meets you where you are—offering motivation before a morning run or a reminder that you’re not alone after a tough day.

Giveaways Throughout the Week

What's a celebration without a few surprises?

Throughout National Run for Mental Health Week, we'll be partnering with incredible sponsors to give away products, experiences, and prizes to participants. From running gear to wellness products and other exciting giveaways, there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate the community that's making this movement possible.

The best part? You'll already be part of the fun simply by registering.

A Community Running Together

Perhaps the most exciting part of National Run for Mental Health Week is knowing you're participating alongside thousands of other runners.

You'll see stories from people overcoming challenges, celebrating milestones, supporting friends, and choosing to prioritize their mental health one run at a time.

Every shared photo. Every encouraging comment. Every story has the potential to remind someone else that they aren't alone.

That's the kind of community we want to build.

Finish the Week with the World Mental Health Day 5K

National Run for Mental Health Week culminates on World Mental Health Day, October 10, with the World Mental Health Day 5K.

Participants can complete the 5K virtually from anywhere or join one of our participating Fleet Feet community events across the country. It's a meaningful way to celebrate the week, reflect on everything we've experienced together, and cross a finish line surrounded by a community that believes mental health matters.

Be There for the Beginning

Every tradition has a first year.

Every movement has a first group of people willing to say, "I'm in."

This October, you have the opportunity to be one of those people.

Years from now, when National Run for Mental Health Week has grown into an annual tradition that inspires runners across the country, you'll be able to say you were there from the very beginning.

Registration is completely FREE, and we'd love to have you with us.

Register today and help us make history, one mile at a time.