It isn't easy, but it's worth it.

The Des Moines Women’s Half Marathon (or DSMWHM) isn’t your average running event. It’s like the hype session + living room dance party before a night out with friends but stretched over some of the most beautiful, and flat, miles in the Midwest.

The signature event of this weekend, the half marathon, is packed with on-course entertainment and strong women. Starting with a lap through the high-rise buildings of downtown Des Moines and ending in one of America’s largest urban parks, this course has a little something for everyone.

If you’re just the right amount of courageous and crazy, there's a perfect challenge for you -- the “Double” pairs the Saturday evening 5K with either the Half Marathon or 10K Event on Sunday morning. Those who make it across the finish line of both races receive an extra piece of swag and a whole lot of bragging rights.