And we're off to the races ...

In an article on Active.com's Web site, noted running coach Jeff Galloway outlines six reasons why 5K races are so popular: ease, convenience, exhilaration, improvement, change and motivation. It'll take you less than 60 seconds to read -- click here to do so, then come on back ... we've got details on two 5Ks to consider this weekend.

Back already? Cool. Let's get to 'em:

James K. Polk 5K

Where: Belle Johnston Park, 1000 Johnston Drive in Pineville.

When: 5K is at 8 a.m. Saturday, 1-mile walk starts at 8:05, and the "Tot Trot" goes off at 8:45 a.m. Race-day registration begins at 7 a.m.

Cost: $20 for the 5K, $12 for the mile, $7 for the "Tot Trot"; race-day fees are $30/$15/$10.

Of note: Race director Jessica Douglas of Run For Your Life expects 500 participants; last year, 243 runners crossed the finish line. ... "The course winds through a quaint little neighborhood without too many hills," Douglas says, so not "too strenuous." ... Great Harvest Bread Co. and adidas will be hosting giveaways, and Dr. Brandon Lee of Family Healing Chiropractic will be offering free health screenings. ... Also, Run For Your Life -- in an effort to "go green" -- is creating virtual goody bags, so special offers and other promotional material will be delivered via e-mail instead of in paper form. ... And finally, this year's race has a new beneficiary: Charlotte Children's Choir.

Official site: Click here. To register: Click here.

Run/Walk for the Greenway

Where: Knox Middle School, 625 Park Road West in Salisbury.

When: 5K run/walk is at 8 a.m. Saturday; the half-mile fun run starts at 8:45 a.m. Race-day registration runs from 7-7:45 a.m.

Cost: $15 for the 5K if registered before Wednesday, $20 on race day. Fun run is $5 in advance, $10 on race day.

Of note: Organizers are expecting about 250 participants. ... David Freeze, president of the Salisbury Rowan Runners, says of the course: "There is only one hill, and it is a short city block long. ... Otherwise it is the flattest, and fastest course in our area. It crosses a covered bridge too." Also, "it is almost a closed course. Very likely the race will be run without seeing a moving vehicle." ... Post-race food: Krispy Kreme, Chick-Fil-A, Biscuitville breakfast biscuits, Cheerwine, and lots of fruit and bagels. ... Runners who bring canned goods or old running shoes to donate to Rowan Helping Ministries will qualify to win a free pair of shoes from Vac & Dash. ... Proceeds will benefit the Salisbury Greenway.

Race brochure: Click here. To register: Click here.

Know of any other races happening this weekend?