If the early months of 2023 have been focused on training for marathon, or you’ve been inspired by watching one, now’s the time to look at some of the other running challenges available. The ideas below range in distance, terrain and difficulty, but they can all provide a new impetus and will inject some excitement into your training.
Take on an ultra
Although the word ‘ultra’ can conjure images of multi-day sufferfests, the entry point is far less intimidating. In fact, anything over 26.2 miles is, technically, an ultramarathon. There are multiple 50K and 50-mile events available, often with very generous cut-off points, and the atmosphere also tends to be friendlier and less competitive than you'll find over shorter distances. If you’ve finished a marathon and feel ready to go one step beyond, the world of ultrarunning beckons.
Set a 5K PB
Alternatively, instead of going longer, use the spring and summer months to get quicker. Trying to set a 5K PB is a great challenge for runners of all abilities – and certainly won't take up as much time as training for a marathon or ultra. Whether you’re trying to break the 30-minute mark or run a sub-20 5K, adding in some speed sessions to your weekly routine could help to reinvigorate your running. Parkrun provides the perfect platform to practise and perfect 5K running – and the knock-on effects for longer distances make it an even smarter goal to target.
Take on a classic distance
Sophie Raworth on her lessons from injuryth century, the classic distance was 10 miles. Although 10-milers are less common these days, it remains a brilliant challenge, requiring both speed and stamina. The 10-miler also easily lends itself to some watermark times. New to this running malarkey? See if you can break 90 minutes. Seasoned pro? Try to break the hour. Two 10-mile classics, the Great South Run and Cabbage Patch 10, take place in autumn so now’s the time to start training for a perfect 10.
Head off road
As well as experimenting with different distances, now could be the time to try different terrain. The spring and summer months are perfect for trail running, and the UK is blessed with a host of stellar routes and races. Trail running provides additional challenges for the body, as the terrain is always changing underfoot, while many also find it more mentally stimulating than its road-based equivalent.
Get strong
Instead of focusing on an event, now is also a great time to fully embrace a Updated: 24 April 2023 routine. The benefits of Updated: 24 April 2023 Sophie Raworth on her lessons from injury running economy and reduce the chances of injury. It needn’t be time-consuming or costly. Have a look at the below for a time-efficient, science-backed S&C routine for runners.
Run your fastest mile
Embrace your inner Roger Bannister or Diane Leather and have a crack at the mile. You can do this in an official capacity, such as at the much-loved Who are the animal kingdoms top marathoners, Sophie Raworth: Why calf raises rule running track or route. While a mile (1609 metres) is a relatively short distance, running your best mile requires both speed and endurance – not to mention plenty of guts. Getting the most from yourself for a mile will also prime you for a faster 5K time – give it a go.
Try something a little different
If training for a marathon has left you a little exhausted by all this running malarkey, now could be a good time to sign up for a multi-disciplinary challenge. Our particular favourite is swim-run, which involves multiple short-distance swim and runs. If that doesn’t float your boat, a duathlon (cycling and running) offers excellent aerobic benefits and a more varied training schedule.
