Going the (Social) Distance

These are strange times we are living in and it is certainly easy to lose focus on running, especially since so many races have been cancelled. However, as runners, we recognize that it is really important for us to be active and keep moving. Not only is it good for us physically but it is also really important for our mental health. Many of us are very goal oriented and, without a race on the horizon, we can lose the motivation to lace up our shoes. This month, we are encouraging you to run FOR YOU! Set a goal, sign up for a distance, and get out there and run (or walk or hike)!

When choosing a goal, we encourage you to set your sights on a distance that won't come easy but is definitely attainable with a little bit of hard work. Step outside of your comfort zone and push yourself a little! What will your distance be while 'social distancing'?

We are doing our best to keep up to date with regulations and expectations in regards to social distancing and/or isolation. We expect that you would follow the guidelines set in place for your community.

As the situation is changing daily, please keep up to date on the policies for your area.

We have set up a Facebook group (Going the [Social] Distance) that we hope that you will join and check in with us from time to time and let us know how it's going. We're going to mail you out a pretty rad vinyl sticker and at the end of the month, fill out your total distance, and post it online for all of us to see.

Here it is in a nutshell; 10 steps to completing the challenge.

1) Choose a goal distance for the month of April (in 50km increments).

2) Register for that distance (registration is totally free).

3) Encourage a friend to register so that you can hold each other accountable.

4) Join the Facebook Group (if you are on Facebook).

5) Keep track of your distance for the month.

6) Post updates and let the group know how you're doing. Encourage others.

7) Wait for your vinyl sticker to arrive in the mail.

8) Fill out your total distance for the month on the sticker.

9) Stick that sticker somewhere cool.

10) Post a pic of your sticker.

This challenge is open to everyone but the distance travelled must be completed from a dedicated run/walk/hike. All wheelchair athletes are welcome. If you ride your bike, go for a swim, cross country ski, or play a sport- that's awesome, we love all types of activity, but it doesn't count towards this challenge. Steps that you take throughout the day or while at work don't count towards this either (though we still think it's awesome that your moving). We want you to set time aside FOR YOU and get active. Those of you who know us recognize that we LOVE group runs. However, during these times, we ask that you avoid group runs and practice social distancing. If you choose to ignore this, you're missing the point.

Please abide by the laws and restrictions outlined by your local health and government authorities.

Although STRAVA and other apps are a great way to keep track of your distance, we don't require you to send us any 'proof'. We trust you.