Walton County’s Longest-Running Race

The cool, crisp mornings in Walton County always seem to whisper adventure, and for many locals and visitors, February brings the ultimate challenge: running the Seaside School Half Marathon + 5K Race, part of the area’s oldest and most beloved race weekend. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a total beginner, this race is more than just a run. It’s a celebration of community, fitness, and giving back—all while enjoying the beauty of Walton County.

For many, signing up for the Seaside 5K is a chance to finally get in shape with a clear goal in mind. It’s not just about crossing the finish line but doing so while supporting the Seaside School Foundation™, which funds innovative programs and extracurriculars for local students. Every step we take in training brings us closer to a healthier lifestyle and closer to helping Walton County’s kids thrive.

Training for the Seaside Race: A Journey Through Walton County’s Scenic Paths

Preparing for the Seaside School Half Marathon and 5K, the longest-running race in Walton County, is more than just a fitness goal—it’s an opportunity to explore the beautiful trails and sidewalks across the area while supporting a great cause. 

Training for a 5K can be a fun and rewarding experience for beginners, and Walton County offers a variety of stunning locations perfect for building endurance and strength. Here are some of the best spots to train:

Hammock Bay in Freeport
Hammock Bay features miles of wide, paved sidewalks that wind through the community’s picturesque landscapes. These paths are perfect for runners of all levels, offering a safe, flat terrain surrounded by lush greenery. The expansive sidewalks also make it easy to map out a consistent running loop while enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Lake DeFuniak in DeFuniak Springs
The historic Lake DeFuniak is another excellent training location. The loop around the lake is approximately one mile, making it ideal for tracking progress and gradually increasing distance. With stunning views of the lake and charming historic homes, it’s a peaceful and motivating environment for your runs.

The Timpoochee Trail on 30A
This 18.5-mile paved trail stretches along Scenic Highway 30A and offers runners a chance to train in the heart of South Walton’s beach communities. The sections near Seaside are particularly inspiring, as they allow participants to envision themselves crossing the finish line on race day.

Point Washington State Forest
For those looking to add some variety to their training, the trails at Point Washington State Forest offer a mix of soft terrain and challenging inclines. Running here can help improve stamina and strengthen leg muscles while immersing runners in nature.

Beginner Training Schedule
Starting a training plan for the Seaside 5K doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a simple, eight-week schedule designed to build endurance gradually.

Week 1-2: Alternate 1 minute of jogging with 2 minutes of walking for 20-30 minutes, three days a week. Focus on maintaining a steady pace.

Week 3-4: Increase jogging intervals to 2 minutes, followed by 2 minutes of walking. Aim for 30 minutes, three to four times a week.

Week 5-6: Jog for 3 minutes and walk for 1 minute. Gradually increase your time to 40 minutes per session, three to five days a week.

Week 7: Jog for 5 minutes, walk for 1 minute. Work up to a steady pace for 2 miles. Add one longer run (around 2.5 miles) to your weekly routine.

Week 8: Run continuously for 2-3 miles. Aim for consistency over speed to build confidence for race day.

Why This Race Matters

Training for this race isn’t just about your own health and wellness—it’s about giving back to the community. And trust us, there’s nothing like the feeling of crossing the finish line in beautiful Seaside, knowing that you’re part of something bigger.

So, lace up your sneakers, hit those trails, and join us at the starting line on February 16, 2025. See you there!

For more details about the race or to register, visit RunSeasideFL.com.