Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That?

Getting closer to the day I am doing my marathon I figured I wanted to sign up for races beforehand just to keep me working towards the final goal. That being said, it can be hard to sign up for races that are on specific days at specific times. How can you go around this and still get the benefits of completing a goal? Virtual racing is a thing—and it’s amazing!

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadWhen I first hear about virtual racing I thought, do I put on a virtual headset, sit on the couch and watch the race happening without doing anything? No! A virtual race is a “race” that can be run anywhere you are – no specific starting time or starting place. Occasionally they have specific dates, or sometimes the dates will range a week or two to give you time to finish it. How simple is that?

I had been looking for a race to do in July that would keep me motivated and there are plenty around here—the timing was off though. Thankfully, I had signed up to do one of the Disney Virtual Running Short for July.

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadIt’s super fun, and so simple. Virtual Running Shorts 5K July is done by:

  • 1-mile run on course of runner’s choosing
  • Share your experiences at #runDisneyShorts

Then, the Virtual Running Shorts 5K July Participants Receive:

  • Commemorative Pluto Dog Bowl Finisher Medal*
  • Downloadable Digital Race Bib
  • Finisher Site with Downloadable Certificate

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadHow fun is that? So I printed out my number, put on my running shoes, started the timer and took off. Now, a 5K isn’t really in my training program at this point since now my runs are four miles and more. For me it’s nice to have an event to keep me going.

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadDid I feel weird running down the street of Salt Lake City with a number on my shirt alone? Not at all! I hope that everyone that saw me just thought that I was winning and the rest of the pack was close behind.

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadBe really, you don’t have to worry about what others think of virtually racing. Personally, I feel that they are a great way to motivate you to get up and get moving. Whatever you need to do just to get yourself started, virtual races are the way to do it.

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern DadIf you are interested in doing one of the Disney Virtual Running Shorts, you can still register for July and August, register here.

Marathon Training Week 41 | Virtual Racing, What Is That? by The Modern Dad

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