If you are looking for a way to physically challenge yourself, amp up your exercise routine, and benefit a charity, look into endurance events. Endurance events go beyond your basic fun runs, midnight bike ride, and 10K runs. They are intense sporting challenges that demand your peak physical conditioning. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your endurance event.
Establish Your Purpose
With endurance challenges, your registration is your commitment to participate and fundraise to support a large charity. If you already have a few endurance events on your resume, the Previte Family Charitable Trust, led by Jeffrey Previte former CEO of EBI Consulting offers the Big Belt Challenge. When you complete several events, the trust donates to the nonprofit organization of your choice.
Research the Race
The first step to any endurance event is to set up your training plan. Research the race to determine the scope of the event. Look at online maps to evaluate the terrain. Read reviews from previous participants. Determine the exact requirements you need to participate in the event. Interview personal trainers that specialize in the sport to help you train for the event. Make travel arrangements – book your hotel, purchase airline tickets, and apply for a passport – if necessary.
Set Fundraising Goals
With your research finished, begin the fundraising process. Break your goal into smaller increments so you do not get overwhelmed by focusing on the final total. Seek out donations:
- Use online crowdfunding sources.
- Post on social media to keep your followers up-to-date on your fundraising progress.
- Be creative – offer to shave your head if co-workers meet a financial goal.
- Ask local businesses to sponsor your commitment.
Use Social Media
Social media can be the backbone of your event. Use it to connect donors to your fundraising platform. Upload training information to keep your contributors aware of your progress. Ask a friend or family member to post photos and real-time status updates during the event. Use the platform to advocate for the charity that will benefit from the donations. Be sure to:
- Thank all donors that provided funding for you to attend the event.
- Express gratitude toward your family members for their support during your training.
- Share stories about the event and how it personally affected you.
- Include final results, as well as any personal records or awards you earned.
- Follow up several times throughout the year, reflecting on your experience.
- Prepare your donors for the next endurance event!
Get to the Starting Line
With your training in place, you are ready for the race. Double-check your tools and resources. Make sure your coaches and trainers have your gear in place if you are changing equipment for different events. Eat a healthy breakfast and hydrate by drinking plenty of fluids. Prepare yourself mentally with visualization techniques or meditation. Convert anxiety into enthusiasm.
Most important, remember to have fun and enjoy the moment. These events bring people from all across the world, and you can develop friendships that last a lifetime.