How to Choose the Right Race
Our Event Guide for 2016 is here! These pages are packed with every type of race you can imagine. We have traditional running and walking events, as well as trail races and multisport races, such as triathlons. We’ve also included adventure races and mud run events. Having a race on your calendar is great motivation to stay in shape. But you don’t want to pick the wrong event and have buyer’s remorse. So if you haven’t already signed up for a few races this year, how do you choose? Here are several factors to consider.
Distance
The right distance depends on a variety of factors: how much time you have to commit to training, your current level of fitness, what races are coming up in your area, and your budget. If you are setting your sights on a marathon six months down the road, you may sign up for a few key shorter races leading up to the marathon to gauge your fitness and see how your training is progressing.
Location
How far are you willing to travel? If you want to run one of the largest marathons in the nation, you may be planning a vacation around your goal race. A destination race can make for a memorable experience and a fun way to combine a family vacation. If you want to stay close to your own neighborhood, there are many advantages. One benefit will be that you can have a predictable pre-race routine and be able to sleep in your own bed before the event. You can also save lots of money on travel, lodging, and meal costs.
Calendar
What season do you want to train or race in? While many runners train all year, some folks may take time off around the holidays before recommitting in the new year. Maybe you are planning a May event, and are going to run in several tune-up races leading up to the big day. Or maybe you have your sights set on a summer trail run in the high country. Check out your calendar and find out what fits best into your busy schedule.
Terrain
Do you want a race that is hilly or not? Do you want an urban course or a scenic course in the mountains? If you want to run a personal record time, you want to seek out a course that is flat and fast. Many race websites offer course maps and elevation profiles, so you can check it out ahead of time. If beauty is high on your list of criteria, you may have to put up with hills and a high elevation as a trade off.
Size
Do you want to run in a race with thousands of other runners or just a few hundred? Races that are large can offer great amenities and a fun atmosphere, but the trade off can be course congestion and longer waits for amenities like bathrooms and packet pickup. Running in a smaller field may allow you to place higher in your age group; however, running in a bigger race may propel you to a better overall time with the increased competition.
In the end, there are a lot of factors that go into which race you decide to run. There may be other considerations as well, such as where your friends are running, what the race’s reputation is like, what the shirt looks like, or whether the race offers a finisher’s medal. It’s a highly personal decision. But make sure you sign up! It is so motivating to have a race on the calendar.
There are more events than ever in Colorado, so it’s easy to find one that fits your schedule and budget. You can also go online at www.coloradorunnermag.com to access the event listings and to find out more information about each race. As time goes on, some of these events will change their days or times, so double check their websites before you go. I hope you enjoy our event guide!