For anyone who vowed to take up running upon ringing in the new year and haven’t yet set out to accomplish that goal, I hate to alarm you, but it’s time that’s running [out].

December is less than six weeks away. If visions of Couch to 5K successes still dance in your head, there’s still time to safely begin training for an end-of-the-year race.

Fitness Magazine’s free six-week 5K training program for beginners starts off slowly and becomes more intense as the runner builds stamina and strength week after week.

Andrea Metcalf’s six-week 5K schedule on Oprah.com focuses attention on stretching, an important and often overlooked element to a healthy race training regimen.

Men’s Health Magazine’s 5K training program makes the point that even in-shape athletic types shouldn’t just jump right into a 5K without proper preparation.

So, with training plan in place, pick a December race that appeals to you. Around the holiday season, runs tend to have fun holiday themes. Here’s what’s in store for December races, according to Buffalo Runners’ website:

Dec. 1:
Reindeer Run, 5K, Medaille College, Buffalo.
Holly Jolly 5K, Orchard Park

Dec. 8:
Snowball Run, 5K, Amherst
Habitat For Humanity Christmas 4-Mile Run, Niagara Falls
It’s A Wonderful Run, 5K, Seneca Falls

Dec. 15:
Caroler 5K Run, East Aurora

Dec. 16:
Freezer 5K, Buffalo

Dec. 22:
Kawelle Ugly Sweater Fun Run, 5K, Williamsville

Last year, members of the Buffalo.com team participated in the Freezer 5K, held near our offices at The Buffalo News Building. Click through those photos, captured by Don Nieman, here.