A running event should be something you find both fun and challenging, but with so many options out there, how can you know which one is right for you? The last thing anyone wants is to sign up for a race that’s not suitable for their fitness level and to end up over-exerting or injuring themselves. That’s why it’s important to get to know your skill level, align your goals with this and determine the type of terrain that best suits your running style. Each of these areas can affect which running event will be the right pick for you.
In this blog, we will take you through everything you need to know about picking a race, from how to assess your own fitness level to the different kinds of running events available, and what you can expect from them.
How to assess your fitness level for running
The first thing you’ll need to know before you consider joining a race is your fitness level. If you’ve only been running for a few weeks, then joining a full marathon may be beyond your limits right now. You’ll want to slowly build up to something that requires so much endurance. However, if you’ve been running for a while and have good stamina, then doing a 5k might feel a little underwhelming if you’re looking for a challenge. So, in order to find the right running event for you, you’ll need to assess where your skill level is currently at.
Look at running training plans
A great, simple way to assess your fitness level is to review a running training plan to get a feel for what you think you could commit to. For a marathon, people will train anywhere from 12 weeks to 6 months prior to the event, so if you look at the training plan and find that it looks too intimidating with mileage that you might struggle with, then you’ll know you’re not quite ready for a marathon. We have a variety of blogs, from how to train for a half marathon to 10k running plans, that are equipped with training schedules for you to browse through and help you find the one that looks best suited for you.
How much time will you have to train?
You’ll also want to consider how much time you have to train for a race. Opt for races that match your current abilities and offer you enough time to prepare at your skill level. Taking on a big goal like a half or full marathon with only a few weeks to prepare is a bad idea, even if your fitness level is high. Taking part in any race can be a big challenge, so it’s important that you set realistic goals and give yourself enough time to prepare. This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed, both during training and on the day of the race.
Finding the right running race for you
When choosing the right running race for you, you’ll of course need to consider the distance, but other important factors include everything from terrain and location through to season. You’d be surprised at how much these things can affect you during a race.
A lot of runners have certain terrains they prefer, and this may also impact the running shoes you opt for to prevent injury and enhance performance. Location is also key, as if you’re required to travel long distances, this can affect your energy levels so you should ensure you arrive with plenty of time to rest before the event.
The season can mean you may be running in either hot or cold temperatures, and both require specialist running gear and nutritional support to protect you while running. It’s natural to focus on the running itself, but the tools you have to support you through an event are just as important.
Below, we’ve included a list of the most common types of running events and who they may be best suited for, to help you pick the right one for you.
Fun run events
Fun runs are a great way to introduce yourself to racing for the first time, as they’ll provide a good challenge without all the added pressure of doing a long and intense race. Fun runs are exactly as they sound - they’re fun! They’re usually planned with a theme in mind and you can find people in costumes taking part in these runs as well. They’re often a great way to raise money for charity as well as challenge your fitness level. Fun runs can even have obstacles, which will help to break up the running portions, which is why it’s so beginner-friendly. We would recommend a fun run to anyone who’s looking for something less intensive to get a taste of racing at an event.
Inflatable fun runs are held all through the country and are held often, especially in the spring and summer months. A quick search online will bring up all of the fun runs in your area if you’re interested in taking on the obstacles with your friends and family on this fun day out.
5k run events
A 5k run event, while usually around the same distance as a fun run, tends to have less frivolity. 5k runs are around 3.1 miles in length and are great for anyone looking for something a bit more serious with no inflatable obstacles, unlike a fun run. They’re great for first-time racers, and people who are not yet able to complete a 10k run. They’re also a really great way for experienced runners to train up for larger races as well.
Park runs are free community events that take place every week and are held all over the world. As the name states, they are situated in parks - making them great for those who love a nice run through nature. The stunning scenery will make this race much more enjoyable and while not as ‘out there’ as an inflatable obstacle course, these 5k park runs still like to emphasise fun and are a great event for beginners to get involved with.
10k runs
10k runs are around 6.2 miles and will offer a bit more of a challenge than a fun run or a 5k run, so they’re not suitable for complete beginners with no training. These races are good for those who have tried a race or two before and feel comfortable when running a 5k, they’re usually done on flat roads and surfaces so terrain-wise they’re very easy and friendly for runners.
The CDF 10k run in Cardiff attracts thousands of runners as they take on the Welsh capital. It’s great for racers who love running through urban settings like a city. Here you are likely to find people who have been running for a while and have already participated in a 5k or two.
Half marathon
Running a half marathon is the first big step to challenging your endurance and is not for inexperienced runners, as they are 13.1 miles in total. To know if you’re ready for a half marathon, you should be able to run at least 5k without stopping. You’ll likely find avid runners at half marathons, though there may be some newbie runners there as well if it is a charity event.
The Great North Run is a great example of a half marathon as the route is very flat and easy to run at a fast pace if you’re looking to set a good time or beat your personal best. The route is simple and with being such a huge event you will find people of all skill levels there which makes it a great choice for those who are attempting a half marathon for the first time.
Marathon
A marathon is a 26.2-mile run made to test your endurance and is made for only the most experienced of runners. Doing a full marathon is great for those who have already completed a half marathon and are looking for the next step in their running journey. With a marathon, you will need to know the route in advance and know where all the aid and water stations are. They will require a lot more preparation, and training for a marathon can take as long as 20 weeks. While marathons can be fun, they’re also a big test of your endurance and stamina and should be taken seriously when it comes to training and the day of the race so that you don’t injure or overexert yourself.
The TCS London Marathon is the world's most popular marathon with over one million people having participated since it first started. This marathon covers a variety of different scenery as you run through the centre of London and you can expect to find many water stations. They also have energy gel stations for the runners to give them a boost during the race.
Finding the best running shoes for each event
Best shoes for a 5k race
Although fun runs and 5ks may not be as intense as a 10k, you’ll still need a comfortable pair of running shoes to help see you through to the finish line. These Brooks Ghost 16 running shoes are perfect for providing you with an extra bounce and a supportive cushion while you run, and are great for cradling your feet while you conquer your 5k.
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| Ghost 16 Womens Running Shoes - Black | Ghost 16 Mens Running Shoes - Navy |
Best running shoes for a 10k
If you’re looking to push yourself with a challenge by doing your first 10k and are aiming for a good time, then these Puma Deviate Nitro 3 running shoes are great for speed. With technology to help push you forward with superior responsiveness and cushioning, they’re enhanced with extra heel support so you can benefit from enhanced stability for confident strides.
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| Deviate Nitro 3 Mens Running Shoes - Orange | Deviate Nitro 3 Womens Running Shoes - Black |
The best running shoes for a half marathon
For a half marathon, you’ll want some footwear that can handle distance. These Adizero Boston 12 running shoes are built with heel-cradling technology and super-light cushioning under the foot to keep you going strong. The outsoles deliver reliable grip and durability for the long haul, making them a great option for half-marathon runners.
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| Adizero Boston 12 Womens Running Shoes - Pink | Adizero Boston 12 Mens Running Shoes - White |
Best running shoes for a full marathon
For a marathon you’ll want to ensure that you’re prepared to run for a long period, this means finding a pair of running shoes that can endure this and support your feet for hours at a time. These Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 running shoes are perfect for long-distance running, even if you're looking to achieve a good time. They’re perfect for long endurance runs at a higher pace with their snappy SPEEDROLL technology and improved race-ready design with a silky smooth heel-liner.
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| Endorphin Pro 4 Mens Running Shoes | Endorphin Pro 4 Womens Running Shoes |
You should always make sure to wear your running shoes before the race day. The last thing you’ll want is sores and blisters developing when you’re only halfway through. This is why we also recommend some reliable running socks to protect your feet while you run. These X AdiZero running socks are engineered to support your feet with plenty of stretch and cooling making them the perfect companion for pushing you through those final miles.
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| X Adizero Running Socks - Grey |
Nutrition and hydration for running events
As running events can be physically taxing, you’ll need to ensure that your body has the nutrients it needs to endure the run. These mini Cliff energy bars are the perfect bite-sized snack to keep you going during your event when you need a quick fix of energy. We also highly recommend keeping a nutrient-dense drink on-hand, such as these protein powder energy drink sachets from High 5. The blend of carbs, protein and key electrolytes helps you to sustain performance and hydration.
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| Cliff Energy Mini Bars | High 5 Energy Drink Sachet |
Proper nutrition and hydration is key, not just before, but during a race. There are usually aid stations along the way, depending on the event and the distance, with snacks and water for the runners, but it’s always good to be prepared in case you miss an aid station while you’re running. This High 5 running nutrition pack is the perfect partner to see you through your race. With a reliable water bottle and plenty of nutrition options from gels to recovery drinks, this nutrition pack will help you, from your training right up until you cross that finish line.
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| High 5 Running Nutrition Pack |
Get ready for your next race with Start Fitness
The most important thing when choosing the right race for you is to make sure you’ve got the right equipment for the job. You’ll want to ensure that everything down to the nutrients you’re consuming on the day of your run is suited to you and your goals.
Whether it’s a fun run or a full marathon, here at Start Fitness we have everything to help you get race day ready, from men’s and women’s running shoes to running accessories, to help you discover gear that will set you up for a fun and effective run.