Races are cancelled or postponed. Gyms are closed for the time being. With all this change and uncertainty it may feel difficult to maintain your own training.

I’ve been video chatting my running friends instead of training alongside them. My alma mater, Michigan State University, flew athletes to the NCAA Indoor Track Championships in Albuquerque only to have the event — plus all of outdoor track season — immediately canceled.

The whole world feels turned upside down. But there are still ways to pursue our goals safely, and structured running can be a huge aid to our mental health right now.

If you’re looking for ways to inject energy and excitement back into your goals, here are a few ideas to stay motivated during these trying times.

Go virtual.

I have to admit, I was originally skeptical of virtual races. Some of my favorite parts of race day are the crowds, energy, and competition. Turning a corner to see the clock at the finish line. Congratulating friends afterward, and cheering other people in.

With virtual races, you are your own course creator, competition, and timer. 

Right now, virtual races are being held out of necessity. Race directors are following government guidelines, and that means they can’t hold in-person events. This is the time to go virtual to protect the future of your favorite races and event organizations.

If you’re looking for fresh, new virtual challenges to reclaim this crazy year, I recommend the Take Back 2020 Challenge. This month-long event gives encouragement to grow our fitness and general well-being.

Plus, TWB Running is providing some how-to videos for the challenges. I helped film videos of Coach Johnny doing squats with the neighbor’s dog, climbing kitchen chairs, and pushing toilet paper to help his plank form…

And you wouldn’t want to miss his lesson on how to string together a strength routine with laundry detergent, right?

Learn more about the event at bitly.com/takeback2020. 

Research local opportunities.

During this pandemic, there remain safe and innovative ways to connect with the community. Greensboro, NC has weekly solo events for cyclists and runners through the Ante Up Poker Run Challenge.

Unlike virtual race courses, the routes for this event are set by the race director. There’s also a scavenger hunt component, a little poker knowledge required, and some wild handicaps to adjust your finishing time (based on lucky cards and aforementioned poker knowledge).

I encourage you to seek out ways your community is adapting to the times while adhering to COVID-19 best practice guidelines. 

Find a trusted guide.

The right coach has the accountability and expertise to take your training to the next level. My college coach, Walt Drenth, brought my training to a level I never imagined I could reach.

The coaches from my professional running days, Keith and Kevin Hanson, helped me qualify for the Olympic Trials in my first half marathon. Once again, knowledgable coaches brought my training to a level I never imagined I could reach.

I consider myself extremely fortunate to know the TWB Running coaches. Caleb, Johnny, and Jen are so incredibly invested in helping their athletes reach new heights. And just in case you’re not sure which coach is the right fit, they also offer free initial consultations.

How are you pursuing your fitness goals while following safety guidelines during COVID-19?