Let's Do This Team's Top 2025 Event Picks
As the clock strikes midnight and the promise of a fresh start begins, many of us are setting our sights on challenges that will make 2025 a year to remember. To help give you some new year inspo, we asked our team to share their goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to smash a personal best, conquer an iconic event, or try something entirely new, we hope our team’s resolutions inspire you to set some big, bold goals of your own.Here’s what we’re working towards in 2025:
10 of the Best Books on Endurance Sports to Keep You On Your Toes
Participating in endurance events is awesome, but learning about the history of these events, or reading the tales of those who have conquered them, can keep you inspired and motivated through this time of self-isolation. Check out 10 of our favourite books below that have left us even more breathless than a good training day.
BUTCHER, BLACKSMITH, ACROBAT, SWEEP: THE TALE OF THE FIRST TOUR DE FRANCE – PETER COSSINS
Unknown author / Public domain
Go back to the very beginning with Cossins’ in depth narrative history of the 1903 Tour de France. Most of us are familiar with the greats – Anquetil, Merckx, Hinault, and Indurain have become household names – but the men of the 1903 Tour are significantly more obscure. Read it to discover how a ramshackle marketing ruse to revive L’Auto became one of the world’s greatest sporting events.
A LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS: A WORLD CHAMPION’S JOURNEY – CHRISSIE WELLINGTON
Undoubtedly one of the greatest triathletes alive, Chrissie Wellington burst onto the professional triathlon scene only three years after her first race. Her maiden Ironman world championship title in 2007, deemed the “biggest upset in Ironman Hawaii history”, makes for riveting reading, but so do her tales of overcoming extreme adversity on her path to becoming a living legend.
MAGLIA ROSA: TRIUMPH AND TRAGEDY AT THE GIRO D’ITALIA – HERBIE SYKES
If Butcher, Blacksmith, Acrobat, Sweep wasn’t enough Grand Tour reading for you, Sykes’ Maglia Rosa is half gorgeously illustrated coffee-table book and half gargantuan history of the Giro. Originally organised by La Gazzetta dello Sport as an opportunity to outdo their rival publications, and infamous for its devilish climbs, the Giro is the much cooler younger brother of the Tour and makes for riveting reading.
SEVENS HEAVEN: THE BEAUTIFUL CHAOS OF FIJI’S OLYMPIC DREAM – BEN RYAN
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When he first became the Fijian 7s coach in 2013, Ben Ryan had a mission – to bring home the tiny Melanesian nation’s first Olympic gold medal. The ultimate underdogs, no other rugby nation has done so much with so little and the story of their journey through adversity to a historic victory over Great Britain in Rio is one to lift the spirit.
A WALK IN THE WOODS: REDISCOVERING AMERICA ON THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL – BILL BRYSON
Short of escaping into the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Bryson’s genuinely hilarious memoir is chock-full of interesting historical and ecological tidbits, as well as insect-based anecdotes. A modern classic of the travel writing genre, this is perfect for both outdoorsy woodsmen and city-dwellers alike and makes an important plea for the conservation of American wilderness.
WHAT I TALK ABOUT WHEN I TALK ABOUT RUNNING – HARUKI MURAKAMI
Running isn’t necessarily the first thing you think of when someone mentions Haruki Murakami, one of the giants of surrealist literature. However, Murakami is also an accomplished endurance athlete, counting running as an essential part of his writing process. Come for the beautiful prose, stay for his recollection of a herculean 100km ultramarathon in Hokkaido.
RUNNING WITH THE BUFFALOES: A SEASON INSIDE WITH MARK WETMORE, ADAM GOUCHER, AND THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO’S MEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY TEAM – CHRIS LEAR
A classic of the genre, Running with the Buffaloes is a deep dive into the Colorado University cross country team’s 1998 campaign, their controversial coach Mark Whitmore, and the tragic death of their #2 runner, Chris Severy. 20 years after publication, Lear’s monumental work still keeps up with the best of them.
BORN TO RUN: A HIDDEN TRIBE, SUPER ATHLETES, AND THE GREATEST RACE THE WORLD HAS NEVER SEEN – CHRISTOPHER MCDOUGALL
The Tarahumara name for themselves, Rarámuri, roughly means ‘those with light feet’. Considering their ancient tradition of running ultramarathon distances, it’s unsurprising that McDougall uses them to support the endurance running hypothesis: that human characteristics can be attributed to long distance running and persistence hunting. McDougall travels to the Rarámuri to understand what makes them such incredible athletes whilst recounting his own history with running on this highly-readable ride.
BOUNCE: THE MYTH OF TALENT AND THE POWER OF PRACTICE – MATTHEW SYED
In Bounce, Matthew Syed questions everything you thought you knew about talent. He argues that what really produces champions and prodigies is, instead, thousands of hours of practice, criticism, and the acceptance of failure. Himself a champion table-tennis player and two time Olympian, Syed asks us whether talent really is more important than dedication?
TOUCHING MY FATHER’S SOUL: A SHERPA’S JOURNEY TO THE TOP OF EVEREST – JAMLING TENZING NORGAY
For the Sherpa, Mount Everest is so much more than a mountain; Qomolangma (trans. Holy Mother) is the sacred home of the goddess Miyolangsangma, and it’s said that Tenzing Norgay followed her to the summit that fateful May day in 1953. Known for being the sirdar of the IMAX Expedition during the infamous 1996 Everest Disaster, Jamling Norgay interweaves family history and Buddhist Sherpa culture with a recount of his ‘96 summit, challenging conventional views of high altitude climbing.
COVID-19: How is the UK government helping the self-employed?
Last updated: Friday 27th March 9am
NOTE: if you're structured as a limited company, this post will be more relevant to you.
On Thursday, the chancellor heeded calls to do more to help the UK's self-employed, bringing them into line with employees.
"Today I'm announcing a new self-employed income support scheme," opened chancellor Rishi Sunak. The measures he went onto announce were a response to mounting pressure to do more for the self-employed, and will apply to 3.8 million of the UK's 5 million self-employed workers. They go much further than the measures he announced back on Friday 20th March.
With so many Race Directors operating as sole traders (i.e. self-employed), we wanted to distil the latest information to help you understand what help is available.
State support for the self-employed now comes in three forms:
1. the "Coronavirus Self-Employed Income Support" scheme
2. Universal Credit
3. deferred tax payments
1. Coronavirus Self-Employment Income Support scheme
Who is eligible?
The scheme is open to those who have had taxable profits of up to £50,000, and who have earned at least 50% of their income from self-employment.
These criteria will be assessed according either to your 2019-2020 tax return (filed in January) or to the average of your last 3 years' tax returns. If the conditions are true for either of these, then you are eligible.
To ensure no-one misses out, the government have given anyone who missed the January tax return deadline until 23rd April to submit theirs. So if you haven't yet done so - don't delay.
How much will I get?
The scheme closely mirrors that which the chancellor announced a week earlier for furloughed employees: you will receive 80% of your average monthly profits over the last 3 years (or from when you started as a sole trader, if you've been doing it less than 3 years), up to a maximum of £2,500 per month.
The scheme will last for 3 months, but the chancellor has left the door open to extend it, depending on how the crisis develops.
Note that the payments will be taxable in January 2022 tax returns.
How will I get the money?
HMRC will contact you if you are eligible for the scheme and invite you to apply online. You do not need to do anything until contacted by them.
The payment will arrive directly into your bank account in one instalment for all 3 months. It will arrive "no later than the beginning of June".
Note that applications will be made through the gov.uk website - any other application portal is a scam.
Can I continue working?
Yes. Unlike furloughed employees, you can continue working and still get the income support payment. But note that one eligibility criterion is "must have lost trading profits due to COVID-19".
2. Universal Credit
No Minimum Income Floor
In his speech on Friday 20th, the chancellor said that, from 6th April until the end of the outbreak, he is suspending the Minimum Income Floor (MIF) for all self-employed workers affected by the economic impact of Coronavirus. Before this intervention, any self-employed worker claiming Universal Credit was assumed, for the purposes of their claim, to be earning at least the MIF, whether or not they were actually earning that much. That meant that if their earnings dropped below the MIF, their benefit payments from Universal Credit did not correspondingly go up. It was a harsh rule.
The MIF is specific to each individual, and is calculated by multiplying the number of hours the individual could be expected to work (this varies according to health and parenthood, but generally 35 hours) by the National Minimum Wage for the individual’s age. Suspending the MIF increases the amount of Universal Credit that self-employed people can claim if they can’t work/earn during the pandemic (whether or not they are actually sick themselves).
Increased Standard Allowance
The chancellor announced that the Universal Credit standard allowance (one of many components that make up the amount that any Universal Credit claimant is entitled to) will be increased by £1000 per year, for the next 12 months. For context, the standard monthly payment for a single person over 25 was £317.82. The increase takes that figure to £401.15.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for Universal Credit, you and your partner between you cannot have more than £16,000 in savings.
In addition, to be eligible, either you or your partner must be under the state pension age. Full eligibility criteria can be found on this government webpage.
How much will I get?
The chancellor said that “every self-employed person can now access, in full, Universal Credit at a rate equivalent to Statutory Sick Pay for employees.” That’s currently £94.25/week, rising to £95.85/week on 6th April. However, if this is relevant to you, I’d encourage you to use a benefits calculator (like this one) to see how much you’re entitled to.
How to apply for Universal Credit
The government has said it will make it "quicker and easier" for self-employed workers seeing a sudden drop in income to access benefits. New claimants will not need to attend the jobcentre; applications can be done online or on the phone.
It takes at least 5 weeks from making your claim to receiving your first payment - so don’t delay. (Although you can get an advance on your first payment in the form of a loan.)
3. Deferred tax payments
The third tactic that government is using right now to help the self-employed is deferring certain tax payments. All the tax will still need to be paid eventually, but, by deferring the dates that it’s due to be paid, the government is hoping to help the self-employed with short-term cash flow.
Income tax
The government is deferring the next round of self-assessment payments from 31st July 2020 to 31st January 2021.
VAT
For VAT-registered businesses (including self-employed workers), any VAT liabilities accumulated between 20th March and 30th June do not need to be paid to HMRC until the end of the 2020/2021 tax year, i.e. 6th April 2021.
What about Race Directors who operate as a limited company?
I did another post on this a few days ago, but in a nutshell: if your business occupies a property and is eligible for Small Business Rates Relief, then you're eligible for a £10,000 grant. If you don't occupy property, you won't be eligible for the grant.
Beyond that, it's not clear what you'll get. Regarding the self-employment income support scheme outlined above, this BBC article clearly says that "Company owners who pay themselves a dividend are not covered."
Will you benefit from the 80% salary protection scheme for furloughed employees that the chancellor announced on Friday 20th? My best guess (and it is only a guess at this stage) is this: the 80% protection scheme is based on an employee's February earnings. So if you paid yourself a salary in February, then the government will offer to cover 80% of that salary (up to a maximum of £2500 per month). But if you did not, then you will have to fall back on Universal Credit (as outlined above).
Going forward
In the meantime, as before, get in touch with me at constantine@letsdothis.com or on the Race Directors’ Hub and I will try to answer any questions you might have.
Best of luck once again to everyone through this turbulent and uncertain period.
Helpful resources:
Coronavirus Self-employment Income Support Scheme
The government webpage on the Coronavirus Self-employment Income Support Scheme
The chancellor's speech from Thursday 26th March
Universal Credit
The government webpage on Universal Credit (apply online via here)
Universal Credit information website on Coronavirus
Money Advice Service on Coronavirus and on Universal Credit
The chancellor's speech from Friday 20th March
COVID-19: How will government help UK Race Directors?
EDIT 27th March: this post only covers government support for limited companies. For support for the self-employed, see this post.
On Tuesday 17th, the chancellor Rishi Sunak came out with a wave of measures to help British businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic. The number that caught headlines was his “£350 billion lifeline for the economy”. But what does it mean for Race Directors?
The support comes in 4 forms:
- Cash grants
- Business rates relief
- Loans
- Employee sick pay repayment
The last two measures are intended mainly for larger businesses, so this post only looks at the first two measures.
Note that these two measures will only support limited companies, and not charities, voluntary organisations (e.g. running clubs) or sole traders (i.e. self-employed). If you're self-employed, see this post in which I go into detail about your options. If you're a limited company, read on.
What am I eligible for?
It’s all about what business rates you pay. First we’ll look at cash grants, then at business rates relief. In each case, we’ll start from the smallest businesses and work our way up.
1. Cash Grants
If, like most Race Directors, you don’t pay business rates and don't have a business premises (i.e. you work from home), then currently you’re not eligible for a cash grant.
If you do have a business premises and are eligible for Small Business Rate Relief (“SBRR”; learn more here), you are eligible for the £10,000 grant. (NB it's a grant, not a loan, so it does not need to be paid back.)
If you are a larger business, and ineligible for SBRR, then right now you are ineligible for a grant. This is because grants at that level are only being made available to businesses in the “Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure” (RHL) sectors. Right now, races are not being included in this. By contrast, RHL businesses at this level are eligible for grants of up to £25,000 each.
For businesses with rateable values over £51,000 (very few race organisations), more information will be published shortly after 23rd March. This is likely to be done through loans not grants.
I'm eligible for SBRR. How do I claim my £10,000 grant?
There’s a lot we still don’t know. It’s been announced that the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy will be writing to local authorities this week to outline the scheme. And we’ve been told that once it’s up-and-running, your local authority will contact you, and you won’t have to apply yourself.
How the government actually administrates this measure to make sure that all the smallest businesses get a £10,000 grant still needs a lot of clarification. In all likelihood there will be an element of business applying proactively to local authorities to get the grant.
Funding will not be available until April.
2. Business Rates Relief
If you don’t currently pay business rates, then clearly this doesn’t apply to you.
If you do pay business rates, at any level, then currently you are not eligible for any “holiday” from rates. Again, this is because rates relief is only being given to the “Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure” sectors right now, and that doesn’t currently include races.
In Summary
That’s a lot to take in, so we’ve summarised the measures in this table, and broken them down by Rateable Property Value (which determines what business rates you pay) and also by RHL vs Races:
Key:
Green = changed by the chancellor’s measures
Red = unchanged by the chancellor’s measures
RHL = Retail, Hospitality, Leisure (this currently does NOT include races)
*Businesses in these categories are eligible for SBRR. Those with rateable values below £12k don’t currently pay any business rates anyway.
† “No holiday” just means you'll pay your normal business rates - you won't get any relief.
I own my own company and pay myself a dividend. What will I get?
If your business occupies a property and is eligible for SBRR, then you're eligible for a £10,000 grant (as explained above). If you don't occupy property, you won't be eligible for the grant.
Beyond that, it's not clear what you'll get. Regarding the Self-employment Income Support scheme announced on Thursday 26th, this BBC article clearly says that "Company owners who pay themselves a dividend are not covered."
Will you benefit from the 80% salary protection scheme for furloughed employees that the chancellor announced on Friday 20th? My best guess (and it is only a guess at this stage) is this: the 80% protection scheme is based on an employee's February earnings. So if you paid yourself a salary in February, then the government will offer to cover 80% of that salary (up to a maximum of £2500 per month). But if you did not, then you will have to fall back on Universal Credit.
I've written another post (about the self-employed) that goes into much more detail on the Self-employment Income Support scheme and Universal Credit.
Looking ahead
If you have any other questions about these measures, just let me know via constantine@letsdothis.com. It's a fast-changing situation - there's a lot we still don't know, but I'll do my best to answer.
I’ll be coming back with regular updates as these measures are fleshed out by government.
Very best of luck to everyone in these most uncertain and difficult times.
Helpful resources:
COVID-19: Government support for businesses
The chancellor’s speech from Tuesday 17th March
My post about state support for the self-employed (up-to-date on Friday 27th March)
Coronavirus Update: USA
This page will be updated as the situation develops. Please check back regularly for updates.
COVID-19 continues to negatively affect the endurance event calendar. Many small and major events have been cancelled or postponed, as rapidly changing rules, regulations, and recommendations are released by national and state governments as well as sports governing bodies.
Whilst these are unprecedented times for all of us, we want you all to know that your wellbeing is our number one priority. The endurance sport community is founded on a shared belief of mutual support in the face of adversity. We are confident that if we work together we will come out of it stronger and more resilient than we entered.
A Word on the Event Organizers
All of us at Let’s Do This know just how frustrating this is for participants - to have an event canceled once you’ve bought the entry and put in all the hard work of physically and mentally preparing yourself for the challenge can be hugely disappointing. As disappointing as it is, however, during this time please do spare a thought for your event organizer, as this outbreak puts many of their livelihoods at risk.
Organizing events is a low-margin business at the best of times. Most events taking place in the next few months will already have incurred significant setup costs. Having to cancel or postpone their events puts huge pressures on both their businesses and themselves personally. Please bear with them as they try to find the best possible resolution for both participants and themselves in these unprecedented and confusing circumstances.
The Current State of Play
The situation is changing rapidly, but Let’s Do This is here to help support and give guidance where we can. Please remember that this is just guidance from Let’s Do This regarding the effects of COVID-19 on endurance events and that we are continually monitoring official updates both in the USA and abroad regarding the pandemic and the resultant best practices.
Is it safe to attend mass participation events?
As of May 20, all 50 states have begun to ease their restrictions on businesses and outdoor gatherings. While federal guidelines continue to advise that socializing should be done in groups of no more than 10, some states are overstepping federal guidelines and allowing larger gatherings to take place. Be sure to check individual state guidelines when it comes to mass gatherings. States such as Texas and Colorado are beginning to think about restarting endurance events, however, there will likely be a new structure and guidelines to follow to ensure the safety of participants.
USATF have established a COVID-19 working group and have advised everyone to follow CDC guidelines on hand hygiene, as well as group gatherings. USATF also suggests following the guidelines of your local health authorities, as the COVID-19 pandemic is being addressed differently in different areas. USA Cycling has ended its total ban on permits as of May 31st, and has released a toolkit to help organizers assess if they should return to physical events.
The CDC advises that anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 should practice home isolation - separate themselves from other people in their homes, and stay away from other people and pets as much as is possible. If you are unable to have a test that determines whether or not you are still contagious, the CDC recommends only breaking home isolation if you have been fever free for at least 72 hours, and other symptoms have improved, and at least seven days have passed since your first symptoms appeared.
Will all events be canceled or postponed?
As per the guidelines and restrictions above, most of the major events across the country through 2020 have been either canceled or postponed. You can find a community-sourced list of canceled major events here. As new country-wide and state specific guidelines around non-essential gatherings continue to evolve and loosen, it is likely that smaller events in certain states may be coming back live in the near future.
That being said, we are not quite sure yet on how far into the future event organizers will be looking when cancelling their events, but Let’s Do This will keep you updated as the situation develops.
How long will this last?
It is currently not possible to tell how long this current situation will affect the endurance event calendar. The pandemic is being addressed differently in each state, and so checking the guidance offered by local health authorities is essential.
So, What Are The Options?
Following these restrictions and guidelines, participants both in the USA and globally are understandably confused as to what their options are surrounding events they have already signed up for, or were hoping to participate in. Below we have tried to answer as many of these questions as we can, with the hope to further expand our offering in the upcoming weeks:
How do I find out about the status and/or contingency plan for an event that I have already booked?
If you booked an event through Let’s Do This, then please refer to your original Confirmation Email for the organizer’s email address - check your spam folder if you can’t find it. Please contact them directly via email, or check their website for details. They are best-placed to answer your queries.
We are working on updating events as fast as we can on our site, and linking you to the most valuable information regarding the status of your event.
My original event has already been postponed/canceled - what are my options?
While we understand that having your event canceled is highly disappointing, we at Let’s Do This see no reason for all your training and dedication to go to waste. The rise of technology and the demand for mass participation events is paving the way for exciting new ways to connect with events and build the communities that they foster.
Entering virtual events and creating accounts on participation platforms such as Strava are fantastic ways to participate in your dream events from the convenience of your current location; reducing the need to travel, interact with mass crowds, or even leave the comfort of your own home. Many event organizers have already begun offering virtual events, Let’s Do This has built the world's leading virtual event solution.
While entering a smaller event in lieu of cancellation may have previously been a viable option, the extended lockdown and regulations meant that even smaller events were forced to postpone and cancel. That being said, when social distancing measures ease in the future, it is likely that smaller, local events will be the ones to bounce back the quickest. Many events on Let’s Do This have smaller field sizes, and we will help you understand and make the most of this when these events come back on the market.
Let’s Do This, Together
There can be no doubt that we are facing unprecedented times. We are all in this together, and we at Let’s Do This remain absolutely committed to helping people find and enjoy epic experiences for as long as it’s safe to do so. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us, as we plan to be with you every step of the way.
Further Resources & Latest Information
CDC Advice on Prevention and Symptoms
CDC Guidance on Mass Gatherings
The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America
9 best Ironman/full distance triathlons in the world
Here are our favourite 9 Ironman/full distance triathlons, from beginner-friendly PB courses to extreme and epic challenges.
The Full or Ironman distance triathlon is the ultimate feat of multisport endurance. Swimming 3.9km, cycling 180km, and finishing with a 42.2km (full marathon) run will require months of training, peak physical fitness, and steely mental determination.
Some of these events are spectacular in their settings, support, and organisation, making sure that you never forget the experience. Here, we’ve gathered together 9 of our favourite full distance triathlons, including Ironman-branded and independent events, from flat and fast routes to the world’s most challenging courses.
Image via Bike List
1. Western Australia, Australia
Swim: Busselton Foreshore, 2 laps; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 338m/1109ft, 2 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 184m/604ft, 4 laps
This course is most popular for those seeking a personal best, as it is one of the flattest Ironman routes on the circuit. You never go higher than 29m above sea level, so you can put your head down and achieve an incredible time. The coastal swim off Busselton Jetty is breathtaking, and the residents of Busselton pull out all the stops to make this an unforgettable experience. This is an amazing event for those wanting to mix their exercise with tourism, as you’ll get to explore one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the world, including forests, whale-watching, and wine-tasting.
2. Ironman Arizona, USA
Swim: Salt River, 1 lap; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 785m/2577ft, 3 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 109m/358ft, 2 laps
This urban triathlon is a gathering point for the triathlon community to close off the season each year. Although the race takes place mainly within the buildings and buzz of Tempe, on the bike leg you’ll head out into the Sonoran Desert for some stunning landscapes. The course is known for being flat and fast, often helped along the way by strong winds. Lionel Sanders set an Ironman-branded triathlon record there in 2016, in a time of 7:44:29, before it was broken in 2017.
3. Ironman Mont-Tremblant, Canada
Swim: Lake Tremblant, 1 lap; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 1800m/5906ft, 2 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 772m/2534ft, 2 laps
This race is best enjoyed for its scenery, from crystal-clear waters in the swim section to forests and mountains during the bike and run. There are a couple of challenging climbs along the way, especially at the end of each bike lap, but you’re rewarded with some stunning descents where you can make up for lost time. The setting in the Tremblant Resort allows for your supporting friends and families to do a range of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and golf.
4. Challenge Roth, Germany
Swim: Main-Donau Kanal, 1 lap; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 340m/1115ft, 2 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 400m/1312ft, 1 lap
For full distance or non-Ironman-branded triathlons, this is undoubtedly the fastest course on the circuit. The world record at this distance was set by Jan Frodeno in 2016 in a time of 7:35:39, and the fastest female full-distance time was set by Chrissie Wellington in 2011 in 8:18:13. You’ll pass through villages where everyone gets out to support (crowds in the past have exceeded 250,000) so you won’t be lacking inspiration.
5. Ironman UK, Bolton, UK
Swim: Pennington Flash, 2 laps; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 2559m/8395ft, 2 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 312m/1024ft, 4 laps
This course has often been seen as a good event for Ironman beginners. The swim takes place in a calm lake, with a rest on land between laps, and the run section is relatively gentle and having 4 laps is good for the morale. However, the bike section poses a real challenge for beginners or regular triathletes. The course changed in 2019, meaning there is now over 2500m of climbing, so it’s a real test on the legs and the mind as there is very little flat respite. The local support, including masked Mexican wrestlers, and town centre finish make it all worthwhile though.
6. Ironman Copenhagen, Denmark
Swim: Amager Strandpark lagoon, 1 lap; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 1302m/4271ft, 2 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 246m/807ft, 4 laps
This is one of the only Ironman events to take place in a capital city, and as a result it is hugely popular for its tourism opportunities. There’s no better way to take in the city’s historic landmarks than by cycling or running past them on your way to an incredible life achievement. After the race, you’ll be able to enjoy the most ‘hygge’ recovery, so it’s the perfect excuse to invite your friends to join a European weekend escape.
7. Ironman Austria, Klagenfurt
Swim: Lake Wörthersee, 1 lap; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 1490m/4888ft, 1 laps; Run: Total Elevation Gain 118m/387ft, 2 laps
This is one of the most beautiful Ironman courses going, with crystal-watered lakes, a scenic bike ride through Carinthia, and a run route surrounded by alpine mountains. It’s no wonder that over 3,000 triathletes from all over the world come together each year. Spectators will be cheering you on all the way up to the emotional finish, even staying to support the final finishers just before midnight.
8. Full X, Ambleside, UK
Swim: Lake Windermere, 2 laps; Bike: Total Elevation Gain 3700m/12000ft, 1 lap; Run: Total Elevation Gain 1450m/4923ft, 1 lap
Often seen as the world’s toughest full distance triathlon, the Full X is not for the fainthearted. The cycle route follows the Fred Whitton Sportive course, which on its own is one of the toughest cycling routes in the UK, let alone in the context of a triathlon. The run section then takes you to the top of Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain. Complete this race, and you will have bragging rights over almost any other sports person you’ll meet.
9. Zalaris Norseman, Norway
Swim: Hardangerfjord, 1 lap; Bike: 1 lap; Run: 1 lap. Total Course Elevation Gain: 5235m/17175ft
This is the only race that can challenge Full X’s crown as the toughest full distance triathlon in the world. The total elevation gain is fairly identical, but the swim here takes place in bitingly cold waters. It has grown in popularity since welcoming 21 competitors for the inaugural edition in 2003, and now has an oversubscribed ballot for its 250 spaces. For all your effort, you’ll be rewarded with an epic finish at the summit of Mount Gaustatoppen.
List of Best Ironman/Full Distance Triathlons in the world:
- Western Australia
- Ironman Arizona
- Ironman Mont-Tremblant
- Challenge Roth
- Ironman UK
- Ironman Copenhagen
- Ironman Austria
- Full X, Ambleside
- Zalaris Norseman
Making strides with Women's Running
We've teamed up with Women's Running to continue the positive changes being made to get more women involved with running events.
With Brigid Kosgei smashing the women’s marathon world record last week in Chicago, in a staggering time of 2:14:04, we thought it was high time to celebrate other trailblazers in women’s running.
At Let’s Do This, our aim is to get as many people involved in mass-participation sports events as possible so that everyone has the opportunity to experience the enjoyment and satisfaction participating in and completing an event. Historically, fewer women than men participate in certain events, as demonstrated by the fact that of all marathons globally, women make up only 30% of the field. That trend is beginning to change, though, and on Let’s Do This over 60% of our users are female.
We are committed to doing our best to continue this positive change and seeing a level playing field. As Serena Williams, one of the most successful sports stars of all time, says, “Women are especially less likely to participate in marathons and obstacle races, so it’s really important there’s a platform encouraging people to step out of their comfort zones and make a positive difference in their lives.” We aim to champion all those in the running community that are inspiring more people to get involved with running, such as Lucy Bartholomew, who won this year’s Challenge Award for Most Inspiring Woman.
Women's Running:
Thankfully, there are now a huge number of inspirational people and companies behind this movement. One of the leading organisations in changing the narrative is Women’s Running. Their mission statement states: “Women’s Running is the community for women who love to run. Each issue is packed with essential advice on training, nutrition and kit, alongside inspirational real-life runners’ stories. Whether you’re considering your first ever run, or you regularly take part in races, Women’s Running will help you run better. Running is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other: it’s about who we are.”
Their publication helps you through every step of the build up to race day. Each issue gives a new in-depth training plan across 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and marathon distances, so all bases are covered, whatever event you’ve signed up for. If you have any FAQs along the way, there’s plenty of specialist advice, from injury prevention to leaky bladders, from energy bars during exercise to family suppers the night before a race, and from core-hardening routines to stride-improving techniques.
Like us, they also celebrate the most impressive female athletes on the running circuit, with a dedicated ‘Get Inspired’ section. All in all, Women’s Running provides all the information and inspiration you’ll need for your next event, so why not subscribe? There’s even a special Let’s Do This discount code that will get you 44% off cover price: wrldt19.
6 tips for running your best 5k
Whatever your ability or ambition with a 5k race, here are some essential training tips that will help you feel good and set a new PB.
5k (or 3.11 miles) races are some of the most popular running events in the country. Every weekend parkruns are available in over 1,600 locations globally, and there are plenty of great 5k events up and down the country, which make an ideal starting point in your running journey. If you're nervous about training for a 5k or you're looking to run one in 20 minutes or less, then these tips and best-practices will give you the perfect platform for success.
1. Warm-Up & Warm-Down
Whether you’re a running beginner, or you’re pushing for a new PB, 5k runs pose a high injury risk due to people not respecting the distance or by pushing too hard. Before every run, you should do a gentle warm-up jog and then do some dynamic stretches, including lunges, heel-kicks, high knees, jumping jacks, and sideways skips. This will make sure that all the little muscles are ready for the challenge ahead.
Warming down is just as important, and easy to skip when you’re tired after a run. But stretching out your calves, hamstrings, and glutes properly after a 5k run will make a massive difference in preventing injuries, and will help in recovery so you can head out for another training run sooner. Alternatively, you could try out a quick and easy pre-run yoga or post-run yoga routine.
2. Build up the distance
Although you’re not training towards a marathon, it’s not necessary to run the full 5k on your first training run. The reason ‘Couch to 5k’ has been so successful recently is because it doesn’t demand too much too soon. If you are building fitness, a couple of shorter 1-2k runs will get your heart pumping and wake up your leg muscles. You can even alternate between running for 5 minutes and walking for 2 minutes, and then work towards a continuous 5k run.
If you need a helping hand here, than you can download our free 6-week 5k training plan here, which will take you through your 5k training, step-by-step. There are a number of options within the plan from how to run 5k in 20 minutes or less to circuit pattern ideas and motivational quotes for race day.
3. Technique
5k races tend to be high intensity runs, as opposed to long-distance events which require steady jogging. Rather than just pushing yourself flat out, though, there are some technique tweaks that can be made, which will help keep you springing forwards, improve posture, and prevent against injury:
- make sure to engage your core and keep your upper body straight
- pump your arms
- push your hips forward, and try to land your feet beneath your hips rather than too far ahead
- visualise the road coming up to meet and support your feet rather than your feet hitting down into the road
4. Interval Training
Once you’ve built up the distance to the full 5k, and you’re confident with your technique, you can start improving your speed. Interval training is really useful for this, and it can often be a good idea to head to your local running track. Sessions might look like one of the following:
- 500m warm up; 3x400m sprints with 2 min rest in between; 1x800m push; 500m warm down. Total distance: 3,000m
- 400m warm up; 5x200m push alternating with 5x200m gentle jog; 400m warm down. Total distance: 2,800m
- 300m warm up; 1km race pace, 2km gentle pace, 1km race pace; 300m warm down. Total distance: 4,600m
These distances can change as you get fitter, and you might also choose to work according to time instead of distance.
5. Sustainable Pace
It’s important that you know what your standard pace is. Settle into a good rhythm, where your heart-rate and breath are sustainable. It is unlikely that you’ll be able to push for the entire 5k, so you’ll need to pace your race. Don’t come speeding out of the blocks and waste all of your energy early on. Use your training to discover what a manageable pace is, and stay there for the first 3km or so of the race, and then push for the final 2km. Like all professional runners, you should aim to be running negative splits i.e. your final kilometres should be faster than your first couple.
6. Nutrition
An energy bar or banana 40 minutes or so before a race will give you time to digest and for the energy still to be there. You want to avoid anything too high in fibre close to the race, because this might give you stomach cramps. Work out what works for you well ahead of race day. It’s also important to stay hydrated with water or energy drinks before, during and after a race. You also want to focus on recovery: have something high in protein within 20 minutes of exercise to repair your muscles, and replenish your blood sugar with a treat. You’ve earned it.
Entered your first 5k race? Let us know in the comments which event you're going to and how it goes on race day.
What obstacles to expect from an OCR and how to do them
If you've never done an obstacle course event before, read these tips so that you know what to expect from the race and can give it your best shot.
Whether you’re taking part in an obstacle course event for fun or for a personal challenge, you will come up against all kinds of obstacles that you will find testing in different ways.
These are a few that you can expect, with tips on how best to handle them:
THE START:
There will be pressure to run as fast as you can and not get left behind. But you don’t want to be on your knees out of breath before you even get to the obstacles. The chap who runs off first will almost certainly drop back unless he is very experienced and just a very fast runner. You need to pace yourself and not cook yourself in the first 400 yards!
The excitement and adrenaline will make you want to just go for it but you need to be cool and push yourself at about a 7 out of 10. Save the 100% for the last quarter of the race.
ALL OBSTACLES:
When you are approaching an obstacle you need to be aware of the people around you and if you have time, watch where other people are struggling with and learn from this. If you need to get your team together to plan how best to use the team’s strengths and weaknesses beforehand then this will ultimately save you more time than going straight in and having several failed attempts.
WATER:
If you are jumping into water, it will be muddy and you will have no depth perception. This means if you jump in with arms and legs everywhere you could end up hurting yourself and others. If you jump in with your feet together and arms by your side, you will minimize the risk of injury.
Remember you don’t know what the ground will be like under the surface of the water. It might be very shallow or you might go right under. So make sure to be soft in your knees as you enter the water.
WALL:
Depending on the height of the wall, you might need some help or look for footholds that will assist you. If it is flat you will need the momentum to help you and so some pace at your approach is best: go for it! If it is too high you might need to boost up the next person and they can in turn help you when they are up at the top to assist in lifting you.
Leave the strongest member to last as they will probably manage on their own and then you have the second strongest up on top helping people over. If you are advanced, you will probably just go for it and the momentum and brute strength will get you over.
MONKEY BARS:
Before you jump on, make sure your hands are as clean as you can get them and, if a member of the team has a dry t-shirt, clean your hands on it. If you don’t do 20 pull ups before breakfast in the morning it will be the grip that might let you down so make it as easy on yourself as possible.
If you can see people falling off look at why they are falling off. It’s normally because they go too fast and are rushing and their hands slip. Or they stop half way and lose momentum because their strength or grip is exhausted.
The technique is to swing, reach and grip. If you go into it with momentum this will carry you forward. If this is a technical obstacle, then again watch people do it first and try and look at where they are going right or wrong. A few pull ups in preparation will really improve your grip strength for this and there is no short cut as this is the best preparation.
CARGO NET:
We used to play on this as a kid in the playground and now you’re still doing it as an adult! This will test your coordination speed. You need to just take your time as it’s better to do this in your own time slow and steady rather than rushing and falling through. We recommend you pick a route straight up and don’t over stretch yourself.
Be aware of what you are doing when you swing your legs over at the top as no one wants a kick in the face. Don’t jump off it as you might well meet an unforgiving metal frame half way down.
RINGS:
Much like the monkey bars, if you have just been crawling along the ground in the mud make sure that you have got the worst of it off your hands to ensure you get the best grip. Use the momentum to swing yourself in a controlled way from ring to ring. You can power this by lifting your knees!
Don’t over reach but try to keep consistency as this will be the most efficient way of getting it done. Again, if you have never done this before, watch a few people do it first. It can look intimidating but if you calmly reach from one to the next you will smash it!
ROPE CLIMB:
This can be about good technique rather than strength. Having jumped as high as you can, grip the rope and then it’s time to lock off so you can push up. Lift your knees up and you want the rope hanging on the outside of either the right or left of your feet. Let’s use the right, for example: If you imagine the rope hanging on the outside of your right foot, then you need to bring the left foot over the top of the right foot with the rope underneath your left foot and on top of your right foot. You then step down on the left foot so it is back alongside the right.
This locks off the rope enabling you to push the body up using your legs not your arms. If you use your arms you could fail halfway and then you’re not going any further – that bell at the top will not ring itself. Use your legs and continue this technique and you will see it requires skill not strength, other than some grip to hold you steady.
BARBED WIRE:
Stay low and move fast! This is very easy but if you want to go fast you need to keep your chest just an inch off the ground. Move by making contact with the ground using your forearms to hold yourself up but low enough that you don’t touch what is above you. Push off the ground with your big toes with heels turned in.
Keep your bum down so you don’t get your shorts caught on anything. You don’t want to finish the race half-undressed at the other end!
FINAL TIP FROM US:
After completing each obstacle make sure your watch and timing chip are still with you and not playing hide and seek in the mud!
Best obstacle course organisers, events, and training plans
Here is an insight into what to expect from Spartan Races and Tough Mudders, along with tips of how to prepare for an obstacle course event.
Obstacle course races are growing in popularity, but people don’t know as much about them as your regular 10k or marathon races. Here, we’ve broken down the two most popular event organisers, Spartan Races and Tough Mudders, and then given you some tips about how to prepare for a race.
Find your next obstacle course event
SPARTAN RACES:
For those of you wanting a new challenge rather than just another half marathon or triathlon, this is it. It is as tough as you want to make it. You can just do this for fun in an age group or standard entry, or if you fancy your chances you could give the Elite race a go.
You will compete against some amazing people who live and breathe the sport. Even though it is competitive, don’t be surprised if someone holds out a hand for you when you are struggling. You’ve just got to be prepared to do the same in return.
Whether you spend hours in the gym or are a keen runner you will be challenged in every way. In this format you’ll be tested on not only general fitness but strength, coordination, technique and most of all mental resilience to just keep going.
This is as close a comparison to an assault course or steeple chase as it gets. When you have taken part in one of these races, you will never forget it.
Fitness requirement:
If you are doing this for fun, a basic level of fitness or the willpower to finish what you have started will see you through. If you want to compete in the Elite class, a good standard of fitness will be required from running to gym work. The ability to run and lift your own body weight will put you in a good position and make it more enjoyable depending of course on whether you are doing the short or long race. However fit you are, expect a tough challenge.
Did you know?
You can also sign up to a Stadion Spartan Race, where all the obstacles take place within one gladiatorial arena. In London, you can sign up friends and family for the Twickenham event, and compete at the home of English rugby.
TOUGH MUDDER:
We have all heard our friends talk about Tough Mudder and what fun it is. You might be thinking, “Why would someone voluntarily jump down a slide into an ice bath or jump into a mud-filled pit and need pulling out?” Once you have taken part, you won’t be left wondering. You’ll see it as a great team building day out with your friends and have a lot of FUN in the process.
The friendly atmosphere is key to these events. Nobody barges past you trying to shave one second off their time or leaves you stranded in the mud. You’ll be sure to see people smiling and helping each other along all the way round.
All sorts of people take part in these events, and for some it will be one of the hardest challenges they’ve ever taken on, even up to the elite level. Whatever your body type, there will be some obstacles you are better at and some that pose more of a challenge. For example, if you are tall and lean, pulling yourself up might be a struggle and you’ll have to call on your teammates for help. Later on, though, shorter members of the team might need help over the high obstacles, so what goes around comes around. Completing the course as a team is one of the most satisfying aspects of obstacle course racing.
Fitness requirement:
This doesn’t require any pre-existing level of fitness, so prior training isn’t essential, but you will find it more enjoyable if you’ve done a few runs first so you’re not always catching your breath. Remember: you’re only as fast as your slowest team-mate, so help each other along.
PREPARATION AND TRAINING:
Depending on what you result you are wanting or just to avoid injury, a basic level of fitness will help you and make the day more fun. Two runs a week combined with some basic bodyweight exercises will really help.
A basic training program to help you on your way to OCR glory could include:
- Monday: 5km Running (or some kind of cardio vascular exercise for 45 min to an hour)
- Wednesday: Circuit training (or gym work involving body weight exercises)
- Friday: 5km – 10km running, depending on your base level of fitness.
To compete in the Elite class, keep a good balance of endurance and strength: we’ve found that the best way is to combine 2 x 10 mile runs a week with 2 x Body Weight gym sessions. When you take part in these events, it is not just about being strong or super fit but also about being flexible and adaptable so that your body can handle the unexpected.
More and more people find that power yoga really helps here and will help keep your body injury free. It’s no surprise that one of the main slogans of obstacle course racing is “ready for anything”.
Inspiration. Delivered.
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