Decoding the appeal of online running races

(NLDO) - Along with traditional running competitions, a trend called "online running competitions" has emerged strongly, attracting a large number of participants.

Breaking down the barriers of space and time, online running allows anyone, anywhere to become an athlete. But perhaps the most attractive thing is the ultimate "reward": beautifully designed physical medals, sent home as recognition for their tireless efforts.

Glowing medals of the online race "Vietnam Hung Cuong", celebrating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2 (Photo: vRace)

When the running track is endless

The first appeal of online races comes from their flexibility. Participants are no longer tied to a single route or race day. You can run in a park near your home, stride down familiar streets, or even on a treadmill at the gym.

Challenges typically last for weeks or months, allowing runners to easily rack up mileage without disrupting their work and personal schedules. This is a great solution for busy people who want to maintain an exercise routine.

Moreover, this format has erased all geographical limitations. A runner in Ca Mau can still participate in a race in Hanoi without having to spend money on travel and accommodation. In Vietnam, platforms such as vRace or iRace have succeeded in creating diverse themed events, from exploring cities to festivals, attracting a large community.

The appeal has also reached international levels. With platforms like The Conqueror Challenges, Vietnamese runners can "conquer" the Great Wall of China, explore the road from Paris to Tokyo, or even experience the beauty of their own homeland through the "Vietnam Coast" challenge. This "virtual travel " element brings a special excitement, turning every run into an exciting journey of discovery.

Unlike traditional tournaments that focus on race day, online tournaments encourage regular daily training. The accompanying apps continuously update progress, send reminders, create a sense of daily accomplishment, help participants build habits and maintain motivation effectively.

Ms. Phong Linh, an MC who loves sports - running. (Photo: FBNV)

“The first time I learned about online running was from The Conqueror, VietNam Goal. The choices are very flexible between walking, running or cycling; along with a very carefully designed application of the journey stages with postcards, stories of the journey milestones and activities towards the environment. These are entertaining factors that make me not 'lonely' when pursuing the journey to conquer this medal" - Ms. Phong Linh, an MC who loves running shared.

The "Soul" of the Virtual Run: The Physical Medal

In a “virtual” race, receiving a “real” item is extremely important. It turns the miles recorded on the app into a tangible achievement, one that can be held, admired and displayed. The medal is not just a souvenir, but a testament to one’s perseverance, effort and self-discipline over a long period of time.

These medals are not only of spiritual value, but also real works of art. They are often made of high-quality metal, with unique 3D designs, with sophisticated details bearing the mark of the challenge. For example, the medals of The Conqueror, they often have moving parts or can be combined to form a large collection, stimulating participants to conquer the next challenges.

Medals from the Vietnam Coast online running competition were sent to Vietnam from abroad after participants completed the 161km run. (Video: Le Duy)

The joy of receiving the package and personally “unboxing” the medal you have worked so hard to earn is an emotional reward that is priceless. That moment is the real finish line of the race. When runners proudly take a picture of their medal and share it on social media, it not only celebrates their own victory, but also creates a powerful buzz, inspiring and attracting others to join in.

Mr. Tran Ngoc Chinh - Founder of iRace.vn said: “Even though it is an online race, you have to actually put on your shoes and actually run. There is no limit on time, space or location, you are completely free to choose how to complete your distance. You don’t need to beat anyone – just beat yourself yesterday and you are successful.

Most importantly, this is a journey to maintain health and build sustainable exercise habits. You can even divide the distance and complete it over many days, each run is a reminder to yourself that: you are making progress, you are living a healthier and more meaningful life every day."

The perfect piece for the running ecosystem

It can be affirmed that online races are not born to replace traditional races with a vibrant festival atmosphere. Instead, it is a great addition, helping the running ecosystem become more diverse, comprehensive and accessible to everyone. This format has been successful in encouraging millions of people to start or maintain the habit of exercising, especially those who do not have the conditions or time to participate in offline races.

There are currently many online races taking place at home and abroad, participants can run and accumulate kilometers anytime, anywhere. (Photo: iRace.vn screenshot)

If you are looking for a new goal, a motivation to put on your shoes every day, try a virtual race. Experience the journey to conquer the challenge yourself and feel the happiness of holding the medal in your hand - a worthy reward for your own efforts.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/chay-moi-luc-nhan-huy-chuong-that-giai-ma-suc-hut-cac-giai-chay-bo-online-196250827165035873.htm