Global Running Day is going virtual this year

Although running has seen a boom recently because of the coronavirus pandemic, the annual event celebrating the popular exercise will now nix its normally scheduled physical group outdoor activities.

“Our physical Global Running Day events may be paused, but it’s important that we all keep active in a safe and responsible way,” NYRR wrote on the event’s website. “This year, Global Running Day 2020 will be digitally uniting people across the world in a global effort to encourage physical wellness and strengthen community.”

Running safely during a pandemic

Running is one of the few physical activities you can safely practice while getting some fresh air outside, and that has led to more runners taking to the streets.

With summer bringing warmer weather across the US, expect to see even more runners outside. Paths and trails are becoming increasingly more crowded with the recent uptick in runners.

But don’t let that deter you, as you can still practice safe social distancing as long as you’re aware of your surroundings and you choose the right path.

Runners suggest sticking to routes that are open where it is easy to maintain a safe physical distance from others, and be mindful of other people’s space, which may mean running in the street instead of a sidewalk.

There are “a number of smart choices runners can make at any point, not just during a pandemic,” Kate Gustafson, running coach for Brooklyn Track Club Women’s Performance Team, told CNN.

Gustafson said that includes:

You may see groups of people running outside together — don’t be one of those people.