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Fitness & Health

28th Dec 2018

Five of the best outdoor fitness challenges to take on in 2019

Outside your comfort zone is where the real results occur. 2019's biggest fitness challenges include a run, swim, triathlon, cycle and obstacle race

Alex Roberts

Adding a competitive element to your training will boost motivation while keeping workouts fun and interesting

The best fitness challenges for 2019 include a run, swim, triathlon, cycle and obstacle race – providing something for everyone. These are the top five:

1: Race to the King – The Run

Now in its fourth year, Race to the King is an award-winning double marathon across the South Downs which takes place on the 22nd and 23rd June 2019.

The event will see 1,500 people of all ages and fitness levels walk, jog or run the spectacular 53 mile route along the stunning South Downs Way to the steps of Winchester Cathedral. The event is designed for everyone, from experienced ultra-runners to weekend walkers.

You have the option to take the course nonstop, in one day, or camp overnight at the fully serviced base camp.

Race to the King Fitness Challenges

2: Great North Swim – The Swim

Europe’s biggest open-water swimming event, the Great North Swim takes place in the Lake District, Brockhole on Windermere between Friday 7th June and Sunday 9th June.

This event sees 10,000 swimmers dive into Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake at 10.5 miles long. It stretches from Ambleside in the North to Newby Bridge in the South.

With distances to suit all abilities, enjoy a weekend in the great outdoors with friends and family.

3: Dulux London Revolution – The Cycle

The UK’s largest two day cycling sportive, the Dulux London Revolution takes place on the 11th and 12th May.

Over 2,000 cyclists will ride 300km around the capital. The 360 degree loop will take entrants past incredible sights and iconic London landmarks, through hidden green lanes and picturesque villages, over testing climbs and down sleeping descents.

For a true test of mental and physical endurance, the ULTRA package will have you tackling the demanding 300km in one day.

4: London Triathlon Series – The Tri

Attracting over 11,000 participants and 30,000 spectators, this iconic triathlon has become a must in the sporting calendar.

The London Triathlon takes place at the ExCeL Centre, Royal Victoria Dock and has a unique urban route. Entrants will swim, bike & run past the iconic London landmarks. The 2019 London Triathlon will take place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July.

5: The Ultra Beast Spartan Race – The Obstacle

For those with a particularly competitive edge, look no further than the Spartan Race series. With events taking place across the UK and Ireland, it is more than just an obstacle course.

Offering a range of different events, you can navigate 20 obstacles over 5km, 25 obstacles over 13km or 30 obstacles over a half marathon-plus distance. You can also sign up for an ultra-endurance race, including the Ultra Beast format of 60+ obstacles over 50km.

You don’t have to be chained to a treadmill to achieve your 2019 fitness goals.