BRSS#4: Keep on Running!
The 4th cache of the series, a camo-taped film canister, is hidden near a footbridge over a ditch or seasonal stream? To get there from #3, continue heading due east across the next large field and down to the cache location.
After fitness classes/activities, in the UK running in one or other form, is one of the most popular participatory sports.
There are many types of running events, groups, and styles to suit different preferences and fitness levels. Each type has its unique appeal, depending on the runner's goals, fitness level, and interests. Many runners in the UK participate in multiple styles for variety and challenge. Here are the main types:
1. Road Running: the most common form of running, usually done on paved roads, paths, or pavements, including 5K, 10K, half-marathons, and marathons.
Popular events include: the London Marathon, the Great North Run and Vitality 10K
2. Trail Running: running on natural terrains like forests, hills, and coastal paths. Emphasis is on endurance and navigating uneven surfaces. Popular locations include the Lake District, Peak District, South Downs, and Scottish Highlands.
3. Fell Running: a British tradition, often involving steep climbs and descents on hills or mountains. It requires good navigation skills as routes may not be marked. Popular areas include the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
4. Parkrun: these are free, timed 5K runs open to all ages and abilities and held weekly in parks across the UK. Examples include: Bushy Park, Wimbledon Common, and hundreds of local parks.
5. Cross-Country Running: organized races on grassy fields, muddy tracks, and through woodlands, typically done during the winter months and often associated with schools, clubs, or athletics leagues.
6. Track Running: competitive running on a standard 400m track. Includes sprinting events (100m, 200m), middle-distance (800m, 1500m), and long-distance (5,000m, 10,000m).
7. Ultra Running: distances longer than a standard marathon (26.2 miles). Includes trail and road ultras, with popular events like the Thames Path 100, South Downs Way 50 and ultra-marathons - see here for the best 7 ultras.
8. Relay Running: teams take turns running set distances. This is common in track events (e.g., 4x100m, 4x400m) and some long-distance relays.
9. Fun Runs: non-competitive and often charity-oriented. Distances vary, but they are usually around 5K or less. Examples incoude: Santa Runs, Colour Runs, or themed charity events.
10. Orienteering: combines running with navigation using a map and compass and is popular in rural or forested areas - see short video here. The British Orienteering Federation founded in 1967 is the governing body and organises an annual Championship at different locations.
11. Virtual Running: participants run at their own pace and location while tracking the distance using apps or devices. The run may then be shared online. This became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic.
12. Social Running: organized by local running clubs or communities, such as:
UK Athletics-affiliated clubs, jogging groups like Couch to 5K or RunTogether.
These runs are focused on camaraderie and inclusivity.
13. Canicross: Running with your dog, typically on trails. It requires specialized equipment for both the runner and the dog. See here for a 10k race and here for the 1st UK K9 Ultra Marathon.
14. Night Running: running in the dark, often with a headlamp, either for training or organized events. This is especially popular in trail running circles. See here for Night Running 101.
