Grab your iPod, your dog or a group of friends and hit the streets, sidewalks and sand for some breathtaking sights — and get some exercise, too. Running and walking are favorite forms of exercise along the Crystal Coast. Because of mild year-round temperatures, one seldom has to miss a day of exercise and outdoor enjoyment. The Beaufort and Morehead City waterfronts and the beaches continue to be the most favored running and walking spots, and they are heavily traveled by early morning and evening exercisers. Those runners who like to test their skills or run with a group can participate in the races described below. Most of them include walks, too.

Lookout Rotary Spring Road Race
Morehead City
(252) 726-7070

This race kicks off the local race season and takes place on the last Saturday morning in April with a flat 10K, 5K and 1-mile run/walk beginning and ending at the Sports Center, N. 35th Street in Morehead City. The race is sponsored by the Lookout Rotary Club of Morehead City and is an event for every age and skill level. For more information, call the Sports Center at the number above.

Beach Run Series
Atlantic Beach
(252) 808-3301

This series of seven runs sponsored by the Carteret County Parks and Recreation Department begins in the spring. This low-key weekday series attracts lots of local runners and walkers for evening runs. The 1-mile run/walk, 5K and 10K are on the beach and begin and end at the main beach access area, formerly known as The Circle, in Atlantic Beach. Dates vary depending on the tides. A fall run mini-series has also been added as a fundraiser for the Special Olympics.

Historic Beaufort Road Race
Beaufort
(252) 222-6359

Sponsored by Beaufort Ole Towne Rotary Club, this is the area's most popular race and it always takes place on the third Saturday of July. Participants are promised a scenic course that is "hot, flat and fast." Hundreds turn out to tackle the 1-mile run/walk, or the certified 5K run/walk and 10K courses. This is such a popular race that families from across the country plan their vacations around it. Race proceeds fund youth scholarships and programs and many community needs.

Twin Bridges 8K Road Race
Beaufort to Atlantic Beach
(252) 726-6273

You have two choices with the Twin Bridges Race: You either run the 8K or stay on the porch. Because there aren't any hills on the coast, the race directors throw in two high-rise bridges. The race, slated for the first Saturday in October, is the kickoff for Saturday's events at the N.C. Seafood Festival on the Morehead City waterfront. The race begins at the drawbridge in Beaufort and ends on the Atlantic Beach Causeway.