Before COVID-19 hit the world, runners and triathletes would train for a race that a race coordinator would map a route for, measure a distance, decide what time and what day it would be. Everyone would come together at the starting line and wait eagerly for the gun to go off. Now that we need to practice social distancing, that isn’t so easy anymore.
The next big thing for runners and triathletes to do is completing a virtual race. What is a virtual race and how does it work? A virtual race is basically the same as a regular race except you can run at any time, any day, at any destination, inside or outside but still receive a bib and cool finisher medal.
Virtual races are easy to find and are usually much less expensive than a regular race. This is because your payment is only going towards the bling and/or a supporting charity rather than helping pay for road permits and supporting staff.
If you like to do your research on the computer, here are some great sites that have virtual runs:
If you enjoy using apps to find your next virtual race, here are some free ones you can download:
There are loads of benefits of a virtual race other than being less expensive. Virtual races are an easy way to stay fit and active without the pressure of waking up extra early, fighting traffic and finding a parking spot for a regular race.
They also provide a great way to complete races without being in a large crowd. Some athletes might like the fact that they aren’t in a crowd of people and some athletes might miss the crowd atmosphere. Either way, at the end of the race you will get your cool bling!
Another benefit to running a virtual race is that you can still contribute to a good cause or charity without having to train hard for a real race. With so many real races being canceled due to COVID-19 and those charities not getting as many contributions, the virtual race is a great alternative. I definitely recommend finding a virtual race that also goes towards a charity.
Tips for your next virtual race
- Virtual races are everything you want them to be. If it’s the time when you want to beat your PR or decide to knock it out during your lunch break, remember to have fun.
- You have the freedom to choose what time of day to start as well as where your race will be held. Since you won’t have race coordinators to map out your route, consider your surroundings and always stay safe.
- There is nothing worse than getting an injury when you try to do too much too soon. The beauty of the virtual race is you can do it when you are ready. If you aren’t ready to complete a race distance, try to wait until you are.
- I recently finished my first virtual race (40th Annual Driscoll’s Strawberry Classic – Virtual) hosted by the Tampa Bay Runners and it was still a lot of fun. Other than being a member of the running club, a big part of signing up was because they donate to charities. If you do decide to do a virtual race, try finding one that also goes to a good cause.
Have you tried a virtual race? How was your experience? What is your favorite virtual race?