As the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread, many of the local races or the major marathons are either postponed or cancelled. Under these circumstances, many races have opted for a virtual run for runners, as it is the safest alternative. 

For this reason, it is important to remember that we are still in the middle of the global pandemic, and we still need to adhere to public health safety measures and social distancing. By joining an online race, runners can continue to run alone to practising social distancing.

From virtual races to fitness challenges and app workouts, the running industry has adapted a few new pandemic-friendly running options for runners to stay motivated and have a sense of normality during the pandemic.

Take a look at how the pandemic has changed our running routine:

Online Races

Online runs or virtual races have been around for quite some time, but recently, they have gained popularity due to the pandemic. Runners from all around the world turned to online races as all the big races were cancelled, for example, the New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon, Tokyo Marathon, and many more.

Home Based Fitness Challenges

Besides participating in an online race, home based fitness challenges have also boomed in the running community. Once the lockdown started, many gyms created plans and challenges for runners to keep active and stay motivated, most importantly, to stay connected with their audience.

If you are looking for a challenge to do during the lockdown period, Instagram and other social media is the place for you to join a challenge. For example: 30 days of plank challenge.

Running Apps

No motivation? Don’t know where to start and plan your workout during the lockdown period? Try downloading a running app on your phone or other device to keep track of your milestones.

Running apps like Strava or Nike Run Club can encourage runners to complete their virtual races or runs, as it helps them to be diligent runners during lockdown. 

If your country allows you to run outside by practising social distancing, it would be great for you to join an online race and use your running app to keep track of your result so that you can still hit your personal best and not fall back on your training.

Feel free to share with us about your fitness plan during the pandemic.