6 virtual sporting events that will help keep you fit, healthy and in shape

Attending huge sports events probably seems like a distant memory, lost in the past. Those days when we got up early for 6am training or to travel to one of the many races held most weekends across the country. Whether we were running, cycling or swimming, we only wanted the following - to have fun whilst keeping fit! We can’t bring back all of this just yet, but we want to make sure that this passion for fitness does not disappear.

Holidu, the search engine for holiday rentals decided to form a list of some of the best virtual races and events that you can take part in straight away! These events even compensate slightly for our lack of travelling, as many of the virtual challenges take part in a variety of countries and at famous landmarks across the world. This is the best way to keep your body and mind active and to be prepared for when the starting shot resounds again... Ready. Set. GO!

1. Coronavirus Virtual Run - until 15th December 2020

First up, we have an event which holds particular relevance in 2020 - the Coronavirus Virtual Run. Until the 15th of December, there is the opportunity to run 5, 10, 21 or 42 kilometres, wherever you are in the world and with whoever you want. Your route and distance will be registered through a mobile app and at the end of the event, you will be able to see your final result on a scoreboard among hundreds of other runners! What really matters most is that 10% of your entrance fee will go to the Red Cross to help fight the coronavirus pandemic. Now’s the time to do your bit, you will find more information in the following link.

2. Virtual Santa Dash - 25th December 2020

It’s Santa Dash time again! Christmas is approaching, a period of immense feasting and in order to enjoy the festive period feeling somewhat guilt-free, there is nothing better than doing sport with your close family and friends. Choose between the 5 and 10-kilometre distances, which you can complete anytime between now and Christmas Day. Throw on your best Santa, Rudolph or Frosty-inspired outfits and help spread some much-needed Christmas cheer! Click the following link to sign up.

3. 7 Marathons 7 Continents -until 31 January 2021

Have you ever dreamt of travelling around the globe, stopping in all seven continents and doing a marathon in each one of them? Maybe this year you won't be stepping foot in Antarctica, but thanks to this event, we have the incredible option of doing it virtually. You will be given an online app that will monitor your progress in each race, and you will even receive a medal when you get it. What could be better than pushing yourself to complete these distances, all whilst getting to satisfy your wanderlust cravings?! You will be sent travel content such as fun facts, cultural insights, and stunning imagery of notable attractions along the routes. If you are curious about this incredible challenge, click on the following link.

4. Inca Trail Virtual Marathon - all year round

It’s not every day that you have the opportunity to visit the world-famous Andes and marvel at the sight of one of the seven wonders of the world. We can't promise you a real trip to Peru, but thanks to the Virtual Inca Trail Marathon, you can get a little closer to making this dream come true. Choose to run, walk, cycle or swim the 26.2 miles as part of a team or alone! Discover the Inca Trail as you receive custom virtual postcards when you reach certain milestones, each postcard containing interesting information about the location. Discover it in the following link.

5. Route 66 Virtual Fitness Challenge - all year round

Next up, we present a mammoth challenge. Covering a whopping 2,280 miles, this track follows one of the most iconic road networks in the world - Route 66. Whether you decide to cover the distance by running, cycling or walking, it’s entirely up to you. This can be done by a dedicated individual, or as part of a team. Don’t worry about keeping motivation levels high as the beauty of this virtual challenge means that you advance along with the map from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, passing many famous landmarks as you go via the Google Street View platform. Find out more about how to sign up at the following link.

6. Around the World Race - multipledates

Now for the ultimate event that is perfect for fitness and travel enthusiasts alike! Whilst the borders are shut and the planes are grounded, this virtual experience allows you to explore new places you’ve never been to. Choose from a range of options, from the virtual packet which contains the full online experience in a new country each month, including a digital brochure full of information about each country, to the Around the World Snacks Packet, meaning you’ll be sent a box of international snacks for you to enjoy as you live vicariously through the virtual world. Follow this link to find out more.