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That makes it an attractive choice even if you do have the option of an in-person event.
LUMINA IMAGES/Adobe Stock
But this is giving us something to put our energy into.
Having a successful virtual race starts with knowing your purpose.
Choose an event that excites you.
When youre no longer bound by geography, your race options are wide open.
Some events aim to stoke your competitive fires, while others engage your mind as much as your legs.
This year the planned in-person eventscheduled for September 30 to October 3will still feature a remote option.
And even theBoston Marathonwhich also plans a smaller-than-usual in-person field on Oct. 11will include a virtual option for 2021.
Normally, entering this prestigious race requires running a qualifying time.
Then there are events that arent exactly races but combine running with other types of activities.
Take BibRavesRun to Escape: Mission Mt.
Contribute to the greater good.
Many virtual races support nonprofits or have acharitable component.
Entry fees and donations fill much-needed budget gaps,Morgan Jaldon, a Seattle-based running coach, tells SELF.
Thats a way to add a little more heart and incentive to your race, Sauriol says.
In addition, races and other racing and running-related businesses themselves are struggling.
Marshall says shes luckyher business doesnt have a physical space, and shes been able to easily pivot.
Keep your goals in perspective.
Sapper and Levin coached many runners through last years virtual Boston Marathon and other online races.
Its just that adrenaline, those other runners around you.
All this could slow you down a bit.
We get a sense of self-awe when we achieve something, Sauriol says.
For her, thats been heightened when fewer people are watching.
What I found is you have a richer sense of accomplishment because its all youyoure not getting the parade.
Chart your own course.
The great thing about do-it-yourself races is that you get to be the race director, Sauriol says.
For instance, if you want a fast time, choose a flat road instead of a hilly one.
Or if its scenery youre after, you’re able to scout a new, adventuroustrail.
If youre racing outdoors, youll want to think through your logistics.
Sauriol recommends a loop centered around your house, car, or a spot like a doughnut shop.
That way you have easy access to water, snacks, bathrooms, and other essentials.
Even if your events virtual, the effort is real.
Exactly how you approach training will depend on your starting point and your goals, Levin says.
(SELF has plans for the 5K, 10K, and half marathonright here.)
Plan for how youll track your time, if that matters to you.
If you find competitionmotivating, thats something to look for when youre signing up for an event.
That’s getting a little bit closer to feeling like a race, Marshall says.
For these events, make a plan beforehand for how youll keep track of your time.
Some races will require a file from a smartwatch or an app like Strava or RunKeeper.
For others, youre on the honor system, so you could even track with an old-fashioned stopwatch.
Show up on social.
Checking out these offerings can make you feel more connected to the whole experience, Marshall says.
Others host live events on Instagram, Facebook, or other platforms.
And of course, it’s possible for you to engage with the race by creating your own content.
Add a touch of race-day magic.
Theres no reason you cant do this for a virtual race, Jaldon says.
Finally, share your plans with local friends and familyeven nonrunnersand let them know youd like support.
Maybe ask them to make somecreative signsor to hand you some water or Gatorade.
Just be prepared: They might ask to join you next time.
You never know who you might inspire from your cheer squad, Sauriol says.
