An inaugural Suffolk event is providing area residents a way to get into the Halloween spirit while burning off some of those candy calories.

So you say you only run if someone is chasing you? Well, this is your opportunity to run and be chased by the undead.

The first Zombie Run Virginia is coming to Suffolk on Saturday. The 5K race encourages participants to dress in costume and run from the undead through the woods at Lone Star Lakes Park.

Halloween is the start of the holiday season — and many of said holidays are focused on food. Candy, to be precise — and lots of it.

That can be a nutritional nightmare for those of us who are trying to get or stay healthy. (Yes, dark chocolate can be healthy, but not in large quantities.)

My Halloween memories consist of dressing up, walking around the neighborhood and eating lots of candy. Maybe doing the occasional cakewalk at a fall carnival. I never chose a costume quite as scary as a zombie, though.

This race sounds like a great way to get to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. Suffolk needs more events like this to help get the community moving.

Volunteer zombies will chase participants, and runners themselves also are welcome to dress as zombies, organizers say. The zombies will not touch runners — just encourage them to hit the finish line a bit faster.

Proceeds will benefit the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, according to the website.

The race will begin at 3 p.m. Registration is $45 through Saturday. Prizes will be awarded to the top three overall finishers, as well as for the costume contest. Door prizes include gym memberships and more.

For more information or to register, visit www.zombierunva.com.