Hey there! I'm super excited to tell you all about virtual runs today. Not only because I think they are awesome and they are PERFECT for moms like you and me, but because I have a REALLY SUPER COOL ONE (that I'm not at all partial to...haha) to tell you about!
But before you get to hear about my ReallySuperExcitingNews....let's talk virtual runs! What are they, and why are they awesome for moms? A virtual run is a new(ish) trend that is basically a running event, run on your own terms. YOU get to pick the starting line. It could be a treadmill, your neighborhood, a favorite trail, it's totally up to you! Depending on the virtual run, you can often pick your own distance too! You get the perks of a real-life event like a race shirt (and who DOESN'T run races for the shirt?), a bib and often official results and a medal.
FUN RUNNING NERD FACT: Virtual Runs (in a basic model) were first held for high school cross country runners. Instead of holding a national championship race that athletes would have to travel to, runners would submit their running times via mail to the contest, and a winner was selected after that!
So why are virtual runs getting so popular, and why are they especially great for moms?
- CONVENIENCE! Online sign ups, no packet pick up, no early wake up times, parking at races, far away race locations...etc.
- FLEXIBILITY! If there's one thing mamas need in their fitness life it's flexibility. The opportunity to run a race on your own terms is HUGE! If toddler life happens when you were planning to run, you can reschedule and run again! No missing the start gun!
- COMMUNITY! Many runners throughout the country live a ways from a good running community, or any local races. Virtual racing is a way to be a part of something bigger, without leaving town! You can even get your friends to join you for your own mini race! I did that in our small town once and it was a blast!
- FUN! Most virtual races have great themes, great swag and fun giveaways and social media surrounding them. They are just really fun to be a part of!
- DO GOOD! Like many real life runs, many virtual runs support a charity through their registrations. It's a great way to give back while you run!
- KIDS! Many large races don't allow running strollers or kids. That's a big downside for stroller runners like me. Not only is it kind of fun to bring my kids, it's often a necessity due to my husband's schedule! Virtual runs don't care who you run with or who you push!
Ok...I can't wait any longer. I've gotta tell you about the must-do virtual run of the year. My BFF, neighbor, running buddy and fellow stroller runner Sara is launching a new company called Grace and Grit. She's going to have amazing activewear for women & kids! We wanted to partner up on a project, and we knew that running, KIDS and awesome running gear all had to be involved.
So what did we create?
So what did we create?
The first ever #StrollerStrong Virtual Run!
You and hundreds (thousands? Tell your friends!) of strong moms all over the country will join together to do a stroller run/walk between Nov. 3 - 12, 2018. It's YOUR pace, YOUR place, YOUR distance, YOUR kids. When you register you'll get an awesome #StrollerStrong running tank (see below!), a decal and a race bib (for you OR your stroller)! A pair of shoes will also be donated to Soles4Souls for each registration. Be sure to hashtag #StrollerStrongVirtualRun on social media so we can cheer you on - and if you post your run picture with the hashtag and tag & follow us you'll be entered to win finisher's prizes!
This event (and giveaway sponsors) are 100% mom-powered, just like those strollers!
So hurry up! Go here and get all the deets and SIGN UP NOW! Registrations must be received by Oct. 11 in order to guarantee your race packet will arrive by our Nov. 3 kick off!
You and hundreds (thousands? Tell your friends!) of strong moms all over the country will join together to do a stroller run/walk between Nov. 3 - 12, 2018. It's YOUR pace, YOUR place, YOUR distance, YOUR kids. When you register you'll get an awesome #StrollerStrong running tank (see below!), a decal and a race bib (for you OR your stroller)! A pair of shoes will also be donated to Soles4Souls for each registration. Be sure to hashtag #StrollerStrongVirtualRun on social media so we can cheer you on - and if you post your run picture with the hashtag and tag & follow us you'll be entered to win finisher's prizes!
This event (and giveaway sponsors) are 100% mom-powered, just like those strollers!
So hurry up! Go here and get all the deets and SIGN UP NOW! Registrations must be received by Oct. 11 in order to guarantee your race packet will arrive by our Nov. 3 kick off!
A portion of each registration will be donated to Soles4Souls - a non-profit organization creating sustainable jobs and providing relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Read more about Soles4Souls here, and if you have gently used shoes to donate - find a site here.
So...who's excited to run #StrollerStrong with us? We can't wait to run with you!!!