Find Your Dream Race: 7 Steps to Take Before Clicking 'Purchase'

Finding your next big race is more than just picking a date on the calendar—it’s about choosing an event that genuinely excites you. Whether you’re dreaming of crossing the finish line of your first 5K, tackling a marathon, or venturing into trail running, the right race can be the ultimate motivator. After all, if you’re going to dedicate months to training, it’s worth doing it for something that truly lights a fire within you.

Don't get me wrong, you don't have to complete any races to be a runner. However, I would recommend to everyone to at least experience a race once in their lives. Having a clear objective on the calendar is a fantastic motivator. And beyond that, the energy you feel at the start line of a race is purely magic. There is nothing like it. You need to experience it to really know.

For me, 2024 was all about completing my first 50km ultra trail marathon. And as I sit here writing this blog post I don't have anything lined up for 2025. I’m currently in the process of choosing my 2025 A race, and I’ll admit—it’s not an easy decision. There are so many options, but none have quite clicked with me yet. If you’re in the same boat, that’s okay. Sometimes, finding the right goal takes time, and that’s part of the journey.

If you’re looking for your next big objective, here are some key factors to consider:

1. Does This Race Excite You?

This is the most important question to start with - and probably the reason I haven't registered any races yet. When you think about the race, do you feel a spark of excitement or even a little nervous energy? That’s a good sign! Your A race should be more than a checkbox—it should be something that motivates you to show up, even on those tough training days.

Consider This:

• Does the location inspire you? Scenic views, destination races, or even local events with a great community vibe can be powerful motivators.
• Does the challenge match your fitness level and ambitions? Too easy might not excite you; too hard could feel overwhelming.
• Do you want to run it solo or share the experience with friends or family?

Tip: If the race doesn’t excite you now, it likely won’t sustain your enthusiasm during training. Trust your gut on this one!

2. Think About the Timing and Training Commitment

The timing of the race plays a huge role in how enjoyable the process will be. Choose a date that gives you enough time to train properly without rushing or risking burnout.

Ask Yourself:

• Is the race far enough away to train but not so far that you lose momentum?
• Does it fit your life schedule? Consider family commitments, work deadlines, or seasonal weather. Will you be able to balance training schedules with your life schedule?
• Are you ready to commit to the training? Some races, like marathons or ultras, demand months of preparation.

3. Align with Your Personal Goals

Every runner’s goals are unique. Your A race should reflect what matters most to you.

Examples of Goals to Consider:

• Distance: Do you want to tackle a new distance, like your first half marathon?
• Speed: Are you chasing a personal best time?
• Experience: Do you want to try a new type of race, like a trail run or obstacle course?
• Fun: Is your goal simply to enjoy the event and soak in the atmosphere?

Tip: Write down your top three goals and check if the race aligns with them.

4. Research the Race Details

Not all races are created equal. Dive into the specifics before committing.

What to Look For:

• The Course: Is it flat, hilly, or technical? Does it match your training environment?
• The Weather: Will the climate suit your preferences (or be manageable)?
• Reviews: Look up feedback from past participants for insights on organization, atmosphere, and challenges. You might want to search for best beginner-friendly races near me. That's exactly what I did when I was looking for a destination marathon - I googled best marathons races for beginners in the United States and that's how I choose the Chicago marathon.

5. Balance Ambition with Realism

It’s great to dream big, but your A race should also be achievable with your current fitness level and the time you have to train. Pushing yourself is important, but setting a realistic goal will help you stay motivated and avoid injury.

6. Visualize Race Day

Imagine yourself crossing the finish line. What emotions do you feel? Excitement? Pride? Relief? If the thought gives you goosebumps, you’re on the right track.

Tip: Close your eyes and visualize race day from start to finish: the starting line energy, the crowds cheering, and the moment you achieve your goal.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Your Time

Finding the perfect race doesn’t have to happen overnight. It’s okay to spend time researching and reflecting to ensure the race you choose truly resonates with you.

If you’re just getting started with running—or if you’re trying to build consistency—choosing an A race might feel overwhelming. That’s why I created my Plan It to Run It Challenge, a free five-day challenge to help you get clear on your goals, build your motivation, and create a realistic running plan. Whether you’re gearing up for your first race or looking to make running a sustainable habit, this challenge is designed to set you up for success.

So, what's your A race?

Your A race is more than a finish line—it’s the culmination of your hard work, dedication, and dreams. Choosing one that excites and inspires you is key to staying motivated and making the training process enjoyable. Take your time, dream big, and trust your instincts.

So, have you found your next big race? If you’re still searching, I’d love to hear about your options or help you brainstorm ideas. Send me an email with your thoughts—I’m always excited to chat about running goals!

And don’t forget: If you need help getting started, join my Plan It to Run It Challenge, starting January 6. Together, we’ll create the foundation you need to chase your running dreams in 2025 and beyond!