Autumn in Florence is running season, and two of the city’s most welcoming events are just around the corner. Neither is a race against the clock: you can run, jog or walk, and every step supports a good cause.
Corri la Vita – Sunday 27 September
Now in its 24th edition, Corri la Vita is a non-competitive run and walk that raises funds for the fight against breast cancer. It’s one of Florence’s biggest community days, bringing together sport, culture and solidarity.
- Start: 9:15am from Viale Lincoln, in the Cascine park.
- Finish: Piazza della Signoria, by the Loggia dei Lanzi.
- Routes: a longer route of about 13 km and a shorter one of about 6 km, with cultural stops along the way.
- How to join: the official T-shirt comes with a minimum donation of €10, then you register online at corrilavita.it. T-shirts are limited, so check the website for availability.
- Bonus: wearing the official T-shirt gets you free entry to dozens of museums and cultural sites across the Florence area.
From Friday 25 to Sunday 27 September, the Villaggio della Salute in Piazza della Repubblica also offers free health screenings and prevention information, from 10am to 5pm.
Don Gnocchi Run – Sunday 4 October
The fifth Don Gnocchi Run takes place at the IRCCS Don Carlo Gnocchi centre, Via di Scandicci 269. It celebrates sport as a tool for wellbeing and for the inclusion of people with disabilities.
- Meeting point: 8:30am, with the start at 10:00am.
- Routes: 10 km, 4.5 km and a 1 km “Zero Barrier” route that everyone can enjoy.
- Extras: prizes for the most creative outfits on the 4.5 km route and for the biggest groups – so bring your friends.
Check the organisers’ channels for registration details before the day.
How to get ready in a week or two
You don’t need a training plan to take part, but a little preparation makes the day far more enjoyable.
- Build up: walk or jog a few times before the event, working up to about two thirds of your chosen distance.
- Get strong: add one strength session for legs and core – squats, lunges, glute bridges and planks help your body handle the miles.
- Keep it familiar: don’t try anything new on race day, and wear shoes and clothes you’ve already tested.
- Recover well: after the run, eat a proper meal with carbs and protein, drink plenty of water and go for an easy walk the next day.
Recover on the rooftop
Planning to join either event? Let us know at the front desk – we’d love to hear how it goes. And when you’re done, come and recover above the city: our rooftop café serves vegetarian bowls, oats and protein shakes with a view over Florence.