For some people heading out on their evening run is an everyday staple that they simply cannot go without. And while the week ahead might seem no different, the weekend could put a ghoulish twist on certain runners’ usual routines.
Halloween is just around the corner and the opportunity to combine scares and sport has rarely been so easy.
Whether you want to maintain the strict discipline of your usual run or are seeking something a little bit different, there is something for everyone.
Here are five spooky events to check out next weekend.
Gung-Ho Spooktacular Zombie Run, Bristol, Saturday October 29th
A 5km test is standard fare for some runners, but throw inflatable obstacles and pursuing zombies into the mix and the stakes are raised a little.
Raising money for BBC Children in Need, the twist on the regular ‘Gung-Ho’ series of races is not only for a worthy cause but will undoubtedly be a whole lot of fun.
Get ready for a Zombie run with a difference! @begungho Spooktacular is coming to Bristol this Halloween https://t.co/sQwxQ4YBuF (sponsored) pic.twitter.com/OUGkkH5QGi
— Bristol24/7 (@bristol247) October 12, 2016
Night Fright, Guildford, Saturday October 29th
Described as ‘one of the UKs spookiest races’, Night Fright in Guildford has big claims to live up to. The setting will certainly play its part with the 5km course weaving its way through the Surrey forest.
Don’t forget your fancy dress either; the most creative of all will be crowned “Best Dressed” and presented with some special prizes. More importantly though, don’t forget your torch – you will need it.
Zombie Survival Run, Newbury, Saturday October 29th
The inflatables will also be out in Newbury on Saturday, as well as the zombies. Not only do runners have to make it over the 10 obstacles, but they also have to evade the blood-hungry undead lurking in each part of the course.
Make it to the end with your three lives intact and a t-shirt proclaiming you to be a ‘Survivor’ will be yours. Fail to escape their grip though and you become one of the ‘Infected’.
Are you a survivor? #survivalrun pic.twitter.com/Z0ySMctsYW
— UK Running Events (@ukrunningevents) October 17, 2016
Trick or Treat Run, Richmond Park, London, Sunday October 30th
Richmond Park is a popular haunt (no pun intended) for runners to stretch their legs, with the surroundings some of the most picturesque on offer in the capital. Come Halloween weekend though, and that changes with the scare factor turned up to 11.
Deciding between a 2km, 5km or 10km contest is your first choice, but opting to have a devilish trick or a safer treat at the finish line is the big decision.
Halloween 5 Nite Run, Reading, Monday October 31st
Head torches and fancy dress are a must if you are to join hundreds of others in Reading’s Thames Valley Park on the big night itself.
The 5km course crosses moonlit meadows and through thick undergrowth in the woods, so the atmosphere is sure to be befitting of the occasion. Up to 750 “lost souls” (their words not ours) are set to make this race a closely contested one in Berkshire, with special prizes awarded to the first man and woman home.
Are you taking part in any special Halloween runs? Remember to make sure you have suitable Sports Accident Insurance, and head over to our Twitter account @SportsCoverDrct and tell us about it.