Having a race on your calendar is one of the best ways to stay motivated to keep running, so taking this One Race a Month Running Challenge can help keep you running all year long.
How to Do the One Race a Month Running Challenge
It’s simple. Just run a race each month this year. That means 12 races in 12 months. The races can be any distance, from 5Ks and 10Ks to half marathons, full marathons, or even ultras. You can do all different distances, or choose to stick to the same distance for the entire year. Or, you may want to try to throw some holiday races, like a 4th of July race, Turkey Trot, or a Jingle Bell Run, into the mix, to keep things interesting.
Keep in mind that it’s much easier to find local 5Ks than half marathons, so you may have to travel a bit to find longer races.
You can use this handy, printable One Race a Month Running Challenge tracking sheet to keep track of your races and results. Start planning out your races now, so you’re not scrambling to find a race each month.
How to Find Races
You may be thinking, How am I going to find 12 races to run?! During some months, there are races galore, but it may be tougher to find a local race at other times of the year, especially when it’s cold. How do you find races? Check with your local running clubs or running stores for suggestions. You can also look online for local races at sites like Active.com and Running in the USA. If you’re looking for a half marathon, check out halfmarathons.net or MarathonGuide.com for marathons.
Get Your Running Buddies to Join You
Send this article to your friends, post it on Facebook and get friends to join you! Even if you can’t run the races with friends or family members, you can hold each other accountable and keep each other posted on your progress.
FAQs about the Marathon in a Month Running Challenge
What if I miss a month?
Don’t beat yourself up! Keep going with the challenge and double up during another month, so you’re still getting 12 races in for the year.
Do obstacle course races or triathlons count?
If there’s running involved, sure!
Running that many races can get expensive. How can I save some money?
If your running club sponsors a race, you most likely can get a discount for being a member. Some races offer free race entry to volunteers for their help. Small, local races are usually much cheaper than big races in large cities. And the shorter the distance, the less expensive the race will be, in most cases. So stick to 5Ks if your budget is tight.
One Race a Month Running Challenge Resources:
- Follow Run for Good on Facebook so you can get tips and motivation throughout the year.
- Don’t forget to print the One Race a Month Running Challenge tracker, so you can plot out your races and record your results.
- How to Pick the Right Race to Run
- Race Training Schedules
