The coronavirus pandemic has sadly caused a raft of race cancellations and postponements, but people around the world are doing a fantastic job of finding ways to keep fit.
With that in mind, we'd like to share the 10 virtual events that will be helping to keep us fit, motivated, and sane (while observing government guidelines) during lockdown...
1. The Plan B Virtual Run Challenge
With Plan A going out of the window for many of us, Find A Race have thankfully come up with a Plan B to keep us ticking over. With a choice of distances, times, kids' races, and stay-at-home challenges, there's something for everyone. And all profits go to the World Health Organisation COVID-19 Solidarity Fund.
Sign up: https://findarace.com/plan-b-virtual-race
2. Maverick Adidas Virtual Terrex Run
As the official hydration partner of Maverick Race, we're delighted to see the way the guys have adapted to a raft of COVID-19-induced race postponements by offering the Maverick Virtual Run Series.
It's free to take part and all you have to do is run either 5km, 10km or 15km, then upload your time and activity tracker ‘proof’, and you'll be automatically put on the leaderboard (there's spot prizes too so don't worry if you're not going to finish on the podium!).
These runs will help keep our competitive spirit in tact until we can get out on the trails and race in Maverick's outdoor events later this year.
Sign up: http://www.maverick-race.com
3. Treadmill World Championship
If you've got a treadmill at home, then the Treadmill World Championship could be the challenge you've been waiting the whole of your self-isolation for.
With races from 200 metres all the way up to a full marathon - as well as a hill climbing championship - this could be your chance to become a World Champion without even leaving the comfort of your own home.
Sign up: https://treadmillworldchampionship.com/
4. Strava Challenges
For those who don't want the material goods, the medals or the t-shirts, there's Strava Challenges. Just sign up to run a set distance on the app and earn a badge (and the respect of your fellow Strava athletes) because if it's not on Strava, did it even really happen?
Sign up: https://www.strava.com/challenges
And don't forget to join the Precision Fuel & Hydration Strava Club while you're at it.
5. Sub 10 Club
For those who fancy something different, you can join the Sub-10 Self IceSolation club. If you're missing the water, submerge yourself in a cold bath, shower, tub or safe ICE-Solated location (temperature of 10°C (50°F) or less) and stay in the water for 10 seconds or more for your 'swim' to count towards your Sub10 awards, with milestones of 10, 25, 50 and 100 swims. This cold challenge is sure to be character building!
Sign up: https://loveopenwater.co.uk/sub-10-club/
6. The Local Landmarks Challenge
The guys behind the London Landmarks Half Marathon are working feverishly to organise an alternative 2020 date for a race that takes in some of the historic sites of England's capital city, but in the meantime you can take on the Local Landmarks Challenge.
The challenge involves running solo around the landmarks - the churches, the post boxes, statues, parks - close to your home. It's open to everyone and distances over 5k qualify for the challenge (you can run the total distance over multiple runs and multiple days).
For those who love some bling, there's even a medal in it for you!
Sign up: https://www.llhm.co.uk/local-landmarks
7. Zwift Events
For the cyclists among you, Zwift has probably become your best and closest friend during a lockdown. They've got loads of events going on to keep you on your toes. So, what are you waiting for?
Sign up: zwift.com/events/
8. Three Summit Challenge
If online cycling is your thing, check out Amber Neben's Three Summit Challenge from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th April. Day One features the Cap de Formentor in Mallorca, Day Two is the Stelvio Pass and the final day takes on the Ventoux in France.
You can compete on one or all three days via the RGT training and racing platform. It's free to enter but you can make a donation to help raise funds for the No Kid Hungry charity.
Sign up: https://www.threesummitchallenge.com/
9. IRONMAN Virtual Club
According to the IRONMAN Virtual Club, their races are designed to let you “train, compete, and celebrate your achievements with a global community of fellow athletes no matter where you are".
The format has attracted a bit of controversy (pro triathlete Scott DeFilippis had a bit to say about it when we interviewed him and his partner Carrie Lester recently), but it's potentially a good option for triathletes looking to stay sharp.
If you do sign up, just make sure your partner doesn't ruin your race by tripping and disconnecting the power cable of your smart bike...
Sign up: https://www.ironmanvirtualclub.com/
10. ParkRun Virtual Quiz
And finally, if you're looking to mix things up by getting away from the turbo or taking a rest from running, you could always take part in the ParkRun virtual quiz instead. A perfect way to start your weekend on a Saturday morning...
Sign up: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/quiz/
Have you signed up to any virtual events? Let us know by emailing hello@precisionfuelandhydration.com - we always enjoy hearing about your training and results!