Fitness & Nutrition Awards 2019

8 GHP / Fitness & Nutrition Awards 2019 , Best Inclusive Sports Initiative 2019 - UK With its innovative concept, Virtual Runner UK is a unique race organiser that motivates indi- viduals to start running and, more importantly, stay active. As part of our overview of some of this year’s leaders in the Fitness and Nutrition sphere we profile the firm to find out more about how it is driving participants throughout the UK to embrace running as a formof exercise. Since its inception in 2014, Virtual Runner UK has raised almost £500,000 for charity through its races. Alongside this incredible achievement, the organisation also works with an expansive community of race participants, helping them to enjoy running by combining it with technology. This offers a unique benefit on two fronts – the first, naturally, is convenience. The second is a sense of community and support, a vital element in reinforcing and maintaining new habits. With these in mind, it can be no surprise that Virtual Runner UK now boasts some 50,000 runners, with that number only growing as the company picks up momentum. Led by Susan Wheatcroft, the organisation aims to help race participants from across the country to do their bit for charity whilst at the same time train and run challenging races that will help them to improve their health and stamina. Virtual running works exactly the same as any other type of running but the difference is that the entered race can be run at any location, at any pace, inside on a treadmill or even outside in another country. All participants have to do is enter a race and provide evidence that they have completed it, making this a much more convenient alternative to traditional large-scale races, which often require significant large-scale organisation. By virtue of the virtual nature of the race, runners can take part year around, regardless of the weather or ground conditions. After all, in this increasingly health-conscious climate, Virtual Runner UK is certainly a tempting alternative, and often a welcome one for those dreading the cold weather ahead. Seeking to build upon its current, exceptional achievements, Virtual Runner UK has ambitious plans for the future. The organisation’s next big target is to hit its fundraising goal of £500,000 for the year and to continue to support others in achieving their fitness goals. More recently, Virtual Runner has opened up their offering to walkers, cyclists and even swimmers, ensuring that everyone can take part. Ultimately, the founding aims of the company will remain central to its success as it continues into the new year and beyond. Company: Virtual Runner UK Name: Susan Wheatcroft Address: Wollaton, Nottingham Telephone: 07728491907 Website: www.virtualrunneruk.com