By Gemma Delaney

There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of committing to a physical event to propel your fitness goals to all-new heights. And 2022 is brimming with electrifying events to choose from. Making a commitment to marathons, cycle rides, or swimming events will not only rev up your workout enthusiasm as the clock ticks towards race day, but it can even foster gains in strength and endurance, making you feel more fit, healthy, and content.

To map out your 2022 fitness adventure, we’ve constructed a guide composed of some of the standout running races, cycle tours, challenges, and aquatic events for this year. Remember to stay adaptable in the light of the changing Covid climate – it might lead to schedule tweaks. Don’t forget to prepare a potential virtual backup challenge in case of any last-minute changes. And above all else, take delight in the journey of training and competing, with the knowledge that these benefits will reach far beyond the race day!

Exemplary Running Marathons and Events in 2022

A few of these races worthy of your time include the Historic City Half Marathon in April, or the global synchronized Wings for Life World Run in May. For a festival vibe with running thrown in, why not try the RunFestRun event in May? Or if off-road courses are your thing, the Atlantic Coast Challenge in October lets you take in the stunning South West Coast Path across three gruelling marathons over three days.

Outstanding Cycling Sportives and Events

Stunning Scottish landscapes await in May with the Etape Caledonia. Or if you’re a Tour de France enthusiast, mimic your cycling heroes on the L’Etape du Tour de France leg in July.

Impressive Swimming Races and Events

The White Wolf Swim in April offers an endurance test with open water challenges in Cardiff or for a more family-friendly event, try the Great North Swim on Lake Windemere in June, offering races from 250m to the Olympic 10K.

Alternative Running, Cycling & Swimming Events 2022

Check out the Triton World Series in April if you enjoy warmer open-water swimming. The London Duathlon in September lets you run and cycle through scenic Richmond Park. For something different, WODland The New Dawn in August combines workouts with a woodland setting. If getting away isn’t possible, why not virtually walk, run, swim or cycle the 20-mile Virtual Angkor Wat route in Cambodia?

Preparing for your fitness challenge

Embrace these tips to help prepare for your exciting fitness event. Identify your motive for participating in the race, visualise the event to control your mindset, and ensure steady progress from your current fitness level.

As you embark on these exciting fitness challenges in 2022, remember that the physical and mental gains you achieve will follow you far beyond the finish line.

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