Take your pick from these virtual runs in Singapore and start clocking in those clicks. We’ve also included the best running trails in the mix!
Don’t let Covid-19 put a damper on your fitness goals for 2020. We’ve found different ways to keep fit, from working out at home to online exercise classes. But if you’re looking for a little competition, we’ve got your back. Just crank up your fitness game with virtual runs in Singapore. You can easily add up those miles across a span of time as you jog through your favourite routes in the city. Some are for good causes while others have novelty medals, but all of them will get your heart racing. Plus, we’ve included running trail suggestions in case you need a change of scenery.
Exciting virtual runs in Singapore
Ground Zero Run Virtual Challenge
Want to do good while breaking a sweat? Ground Zero Run is organised by Mercy Relief, an NGO humanitarian charity. It presents you with a virtual challenge in two categories: 5km and 10km. What’s the task? Complete the run by lugging a 5kg relief pack. It’s to recognise the tumultuous journey of disaster survivors collecting urgent supplies from ground zero. What makes a relief pack, you ask? Think free weights, water bottles or even rice packets!
Sign up online, clock-in period till 27 September.
Suggested running trail: MacRitchie Nature Trail. If you’re going all out, head to MacRitchie Nature Trail & Reservoir Park. Its uneven terrains – from dirt tracks and grassy banks to boardwalks and smooth pavements – will make the experience exciting yet challenging.
HomeTeamNS REAL Run
Going virtual for the first time (‘cos Covid), this year’s run shows support and appreciation for the Singapore Civil Defence Force and Singapore Police Force. Participants can sign up for three different categories (5km, 15km and 24km) based on your fitness level.
Sign up online, clock-in period till 4 September.
Suggested running trail: East Coast Park. It’s a hotspot for marathon runners, thanks to its 15km-long stretch. Plus, you get stunning views of the ocean to distract you from the inevitable pain of running. It’s also shady during the day and well-lit at night, making it an ideal route for both early birds and night owls.
Star Wars Virtual Run
Whether you pledge your allegiance to the dark or light side of the Force, get a piece of the action with the first-ever Star Wars-themed virtual run in Southeast Asia. Before you pick a side, know that there are two different entitlements: A stormtrooper medal and a BB-8 medal. No points for guessing which side gets which! For die-hard fans, skip the easy 5.4km run and go for the 40km challenge to pay tribute to the 40th anniversary of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. May the force be with you!
Sign up online, clock-in period till 30 October.
Suggested running trail: Marina Bay. Stick to the futuristic theme by pounding the pavement along the Marina Bay route. Its 10km trail lets you soak in the glitzy skyline of MBS and the ArtScience Museum alongside the lush, space-age landscape of Gardens by the Bay.
Rail Corridor Virtual Trail Run 2020
With origins in 2016, this run brought history buffs, nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts to the former Tanjong Pagar Railway Station (now known as Rail Corridor) for one helluva run before some parts shut for redevelopment. Now, you can relive the thrill of it through the virtual edition. New to the whole running thing? This is perfect for newbies, as you only need to complete 5km to snag a rad train carriage-shaped medal.
Sign up online, clock-in period till 30 September.
Suggested running trail: Rail Corridor, of course. The beauty of virtual runs? You can do it anywhere, so no one’s stopping you from completing the race at the reopened parts of the actual location.
Run For Your Heart Virtual Run
Looking for a reason to lace up and run? Do it for your heart! With World Health Day right around the corner, this virtual run spotlights the importance of cardiovascular health. There are five categories featured: 3km, 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km. No matter the distance you choose, participants can look forward to a heart-shaped medallion and an informative webinar on maintaining a healthy heart.
Sign up online, clock-in period till 29 September.
Suggested running trail: Punggol Park Connector. This 6.1km riverside trail, stretching from Gerald Drive to Punggol Waterway Park, is an oasis of tranquillity. Insider tip: Make your way there a little before sundown to be blessed with paddle pop skies. It’s the ultimate spectacular sight when you achieve that runner’s high.
Coronavirus Virtual Run 2020
What a year, huh? Covid-19 has truly turned our lives upside down in every possible area. What better way to look back on this challenging period than with a medal from a Covid-themed virtual run? The prize comes in the shape of an animated planet earth wearing a face mask – big mood for 2020. Runners can opt for various categories including 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km. Let’s do it for Corona!
Sign up online, clock-in period till 7 September.
Suggested running trail: Southern Ridges Trail. If you’re a seasoned runner, hit up the Southern Ridges Trail, a 10km circuit that connects three parks. It’s an uphill battle, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views as you cross Henderson Waves Bridge and when you reach the top of Mount Faber Park and Kent Ridge Park.
The Limitless Run 2020
Run for a good cause with Limitless, a non-profit organisation that’s dedicated to empowering the youth of our society. It’s only a 5km race, so you have no excuses! All funds raised will be given to its youth mental health programmes and every participant is entitled to two masterclasses led by mental health experts.
Sign up online, clock-in period till 10 October.
Suggested running trail: Changi Beach Park. It’s your best bet if you’re looking to get away from the crowds. While running along the 3.3km stretch, keep an eye out for aeroplanes landing and taking off.