When most people think of a fitness event such as a marathon, usually even the thought of it is tiring. Even considering the painful, long hours, which just keep going and going, can put off most. Although there are some out there who relish the challenge and satisfaction after all that hard work finally pays off. But if you’re going to set a big goal like running a marathon, why not make it as interesting as possible? There are a variety of events out there, some of them might even change your mind and cause you to add a new addition to that bucket list. Also, if you like keeping fit in general why not put that fitness to good use and try something new. So why just plod through the mundane streets of your hometown when you could aim for something new and different? Here are a list of some inspiring (or a little insane) fitness events which might just get you up off the couch and into your running shoes:
London Marathon, London
Starting off with the ‘nearest’ one, this is an amazing achievement to tick off from your bucket list. The route runs by some of the most iconic landmarks in Britain, including Big Ben, the Tower of London, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. The race also passes along the Thames River and across the Tower Bridge to cross the finish line at Buckingham Palace. With attractions like that to keep you going, it is no wonder it draws in runners from all over the world!
http://www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com
New York City Marathon, New York
While we are discussing admiring those impressive landmarks that push you through a marathon, what could be more remarkable than running through the iconic streets of New York City? The route covers all five boroughs, beginning in Staten Island, through Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and ending in Manhattan’s Central Park. Why not run a marathon and get a full tour of New York at the same time? If only we could get a coffee from Central Perk after it…
Great Wall Marathon in Tianjin, China
Get the stairmaster on the go in preparation for this one – 5,164 steps along China’s most famous landmark! You can integrate travelling and experiencing the Great Wall of China with this one intense challenge. A marathon package allows you to explore Beijing while you are there, including seeing the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
http://great-wall-marathon.com
The Big Five Marathon in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Are you craving a major adventure? How about combining a marathon and an African safari? This one is definitely for the toughest among us. The course snakes through the hills and valleys of Entabeni Game Reserve in the Waterberg district of South Africa. This marathon leads runners through the habitats of some of Africa’s most famous residents, including Elephants, Rhinos, Buffalos, Lions and Leopards – so much for a marathon alone sounding terrifying! Nothing separates the runners from the wildlife. I think the – very real – prospect of being faced with a lion will push you to finish this 88km race…
http://www.big-five-marathon.com
Antarctica Ice Marathon,
The lowest ever recorded temperature on earth was -89ºC in Antarctica, so maybe this one is a little too crazy. The website’s FAQ section maintains that no prior extreme weather experience is required, and that “proper clothing should ensure the cold is not a completely overwhelming problem when running or walking these races.” Advice on training is required for any marathon, so why not go for something completely unique, that not many can say they have done? But this one, unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), doesn’t say anything about running through penguin or polar bear habitats unlike the Big Five Marathon – how do you choose which one to do?
London to Paris bike ride
If running is not for you, don’t fret, there are still plenty of interesting events to choose from. Every June a group of fighters (with legs of steel) take on the long road from London to Paris on their bikes. This impressive accomplishment famously also raises money for numerous charities, and you can choose which charity your funding goes to. This cycle is undertaken over four days, starting from Crystal Palace in London, heading south through France for the next three days before finally arriving in Paris. The next day you are free to explore Paris – or more likely wobble round Paris – until you get the Eurostar back to Britain. Also, on the plus side, it’s great for the glutes!
http://www.londonparisbikeride.co.uk
Tough Mudder
I wouldn’t underestimate this as just having fun rolling around in mud – only 75% of applicants successfully complete each challenge. But if you are up for the challenge, rather than continuously running in a straight line for hours, you can manoeuvre your whole body through obstacles designed by the Special Forces – from crawling and sliding through thick mud to overcoming ice-cold water. Just get a team together and test yourselves to do something different. In the end you can get a beer while listening to a live band and chatting conventionally to people masked head to foot in mud, sweat and tears. Just prepare yourself to swallow plenty of mud!
Marathon du Medoc
For something which is a little extreme, try running a marathon…drunk. The Marathon du Medoc is no 3am stumble up the Spital, it has 23 wine stations along 26 miles, with oysters and cheese to nibble on throughout. There is also a drunken pasta party the night before. Wondering if it really is possible to run the full 26 miles in straight line? Why not try it! For sure you will have one horrific hangover the next morning – the true meaning of aching all over!
http://www.marathondumedoc.com