Tips for Maximizing your Run for Clean Air Virtual 5K Experience

So you can’t make it to the Run for Clean Air on April 22nd at the Art Museum – no big deal! You can still support Clean Air Council and celebrate Earth Day by participating in our all-new Virtual 5K. It’s easy to understand that just like any other race you need to log training miles, but virtual race day can be a bit of a mystery. Here are our tips and tricks for making the Run for Clean Air Virtual 5K your best race of the year.

Plogging is a Swedish fitness craze where runners pick up litter. It’s as easy as toting a small plastic bag on your run – you can even start your run empty-handed and find a littered bag to use as a receptacle. Plogging is a great way to go the extra mile for the environment while you compete in the Virtual 5K. Clean Air Council is even helping to organize Philly Plogging Week in neighborhoods around the city from April 9th through the 15th if you want to plog with a group.

You’re no longer stuck running whatever course the race director likes. Mountain, beach, trail, city street, or treadmill – the Virtual 5K allows you to pick your ideal course. Use the race as an excuse to explore and run in a new locale. Maybe even run past a waterfall?

Having a running buddy or group is the best way to motivate you, set an optimal pace, keep you safe, and have fun! Call a friend (or 10) and invite them to Run for Clean Air with you. Bonus – your buddy can help you with the last tip on this list.

Running during sunrise or sunset lends itself to spectacular visuals – like a personal firework show starting or ending your race. For the duration of your run, you will enjoy a beautiful light show brought to you by mother nature. Since this option involves at least partially running in the near-darkness, we highly suggest bringing a running buddy along for safety and ghost stories.

There’s a reason why races always have long porta-potty lines. Make sure to plan a quick pit stop before and after your race. Whether it’s popping into a coffee shop or swinging by a park with restrooms, you’ll be happy that you made the extra effort.

When you’re racing – as opposed to training – you’re exerting maximum effort (we assume). Most 5Ks have water at the ½ way point and finish of the race. Plan to have at least 16 oz of water available immediately after you finish or wear a hydration belt. And if you’re planning on ending your Virtual Run at your favorite bar, remember that and you’ll still need to down water.

While most organized races have a sophisticated timing system and certified course, the Virtual 5K relies on you to measure distance and speed. Whether it’s an app on your phone or a GPS watch, have a reliable tool that you are familiar with and comfortable using. Don’t have a favorite tool and not sure where to start? We recommend Map My Run and Strava apps.

Last and most important tip – snap selfies or pose for a friend to show off your Virtual 5K finish. Show everyone that you are part of the Run for Clean Air community. You’ve earned the right to brag about your accomplishment and commitment to supporting clean air and a healthy environment.