As someone who loves running and collecting medals, I’m always on the lookout for the best virtual races with the coolest medals. And let me tell you, there are some amazing options.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, or maybe just completed a couch to 5k training plan, virtual 5k races are a great way to stay motivated, challenge yourself, and have fun.
After researching and participating in numerous virtual races, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best virtual 5k races with medals. From superhero-themed medals to glow-in-the-dark designs, these races offer unique and exciting ways to show off your accomplishments.
Plus, many of them support great causes and charities, so you can feel good about your participation. So without further ado, let’s dive into the list and discover the best virtual 5k races with medals that you won’t want to miss!
Here’s my top 10 picks for best virtual 5K races with medals:
1. runDisney
RunDisney offers a variety of virtual races, including 5Ks, and participants can run them wherever they choose. What makes runDisney’s virtual races unique and special is the community aspect. Participants can connect with other runners and share their progress through the runDisney app.
Additionally, each virtual race comes with a unique medal that participants can earn by completing the race. These medals are a great way to commemorate the achievement and are unique to each event.
Overall, runDisney’s virtual events are a fun and flexible way to stay active and engaged with the runDisney community, whether you’re running a 5K or a multi-race challenge.
2. Medal Dash
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active while also connecting with other runners, Medal Dash might be just what you’re looking for! They offer a variety of virtual races, including 5Ks, that you can complete from anywhere.
And the best part? Each race comes with a unique medal that you can earn by completing the race! Medal Dash also partners with various brands to offer exclusive swag and merchandise to participants. So, not only will you be staying active and healthy, but you’ll also be able to show off your cool new gear!
Overall, Medal Dash’s virtual events are a great way to stay motivated and connected with like-minded individuals, all while earning awesome medals and swag.
3. Gone For A Run
If you’re interested in participating in a virtual 5K race and receiving a cool medal for finishing, you should definitely check out Gone For a Run’s virtual events! These races can be completed from anywhere, so you can run them in your neighborhood, at a local park, or even on a treadmill.
And the best part is that you’ll receive a unique medal for completing the race! Gone For a Run has a variety of virtual races to choose from, including themed races, challenges, and even customizable races. Plus, you’ll be able to connect with other runners and share your progress through their app.
4. Virtual Pace Series
Virtual Pace Series, is a virtual race company that offers a variety of virtual races, including 5Ks and 10Ks, that can be completed from anywhere in the world. Participants can walk, jog, run, bike, or use a treadmill to complete the race at their own pace.
Each finisher receives a custom VPS medal, bib, and bragging rights. Virtual Pace Series also donates a portion of the registration fee to charities throughout the world. Their website provides information about upcoming events, as well as the ability to enter results and access a FAQ section.
5. Runs For A Purpose
Runs for a Purpose is all about virtual races that allow participants to complete the distance at their convenience, any time, anywhere during the dates of the race. You can walk, jog, run, bike, or use a treadmill to complete the race at your own pace.
The best part is that you get to support a good cause while staying active! The race fee covers the cost for the organizers to put on the races, and a portion of it is donated to charities. You’ll receive a custom medal for completing the race, and you can print your digital bib and finisher certificate.
Tracking your time is optional, but submitting your time is required to see how you placed overall and print your finisher certificate. You can also join the Virtual Runs for a Purpose Facebook Group to share and celebrate with other participants.
Related article: 4 Week Couch to 5K Plan for Seniors (Free PDF)
6. Virtual Strides
Virtual Strides offers virtual races with medals for charity. Since 2014, they have hosted virtual races benefitting more than 100 different charities. Participants can walk, jog, run, bike, or use a treadmill to complete the race at their own pace.
Each finisher receives a custom medal, bib, and bragging rights. The website provides information about upcoming events, as well as the ability to enter results and access a FAQ section. They also have a blog section where they feature virtual runs and share event results and finisher photos.
7. Virtual Run Events
Virtual Run Events offers virtual races that can be run from any location you choose, whether it’s on the road, trail, treadmill, gym, or track. You get to run your own race, at your own pace, and time it yourself. And the best part is that your medal will be shipped directly to you!
Virtual Run Events offers various distances, including 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons, and each race benefits a different charity. You can check out their shop to sign up for any races that appeal to you, and your medals and bibs will be shipped to you within two to five days of signing up.
Once you’ve signed up, decide on your distance and course, time yourself, and submit your results. And don’t forget to take photos with your medal and share your race with the Virtual Run Events community on their Facebook group and Instagram using #moonjoggers and #virtualruneventsforcharity.
8. Badass Runners
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to stay fit and give back to charity, Badass Running Company is the perfect place for you! Participate in national virtual charity runs from anywhere and receive a badass medal while contributing to a good cause.
You’ll have a blast while reaching your fitness goals, make new friends, and take tons of photos to share. Badass Running Company believes in giving back to the community and supports charitable organizations that promote healthy minds and bodies.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for a virtual 5k and become a part of their mission to create a healthier world through fun, fitness, and charity!
9. Challenge In Motion
Challenge in Motion is a virtual run/activity challenge company that offers a variety of challenges that can be completed from anywhere. They believe in the power of virtual challenges to offer flexibility, diversity, and fun to a fitness journey.
Participants can run, walk, bike, swim, or engage in any other forward motion activity to complete the challenge. They do not require most of their challenges to be completed within any specific time frame, and participants can break down the challenges into manageable segments.
C.I.M. offers two options for logging miles for the registered challenge, either manually or automatically through supported fitness apps. Challenge finisher swag is mailed to participants, and international shipping rates apply to those who live outside the country.
10. Yes.Fit
Yes.Fit is a virtual run company that offers a variety of fitness challenges that can be completed from anywhere. They offer virtual races, exercises, and challenges that can be completed at your own pace, and you can earn physical rewards like unique medals, t-shirts, and more!
Yes.Fit also offers a VIP Membership program that unlocks exclusive benefits like 20% off, free shipping, unlimited digital races, exclusive workouts, and the ability to redeem your motion tokens for rewards. They have over 400,000 virtual racers and have completed over 58 million miles, 17 million workouts, and burned over 5 billion calories.
Yes.Fit supports a wide range of fitness trackers to keep your data all in one place, and they offer a variety of fitness apparel and products to support your fitness goals.
What exactly is a “Virtual” 5K Race?
As a runner, I know how important it is to find ways to stay motivated and engaged in my fitness routine. Virtual 5K races are a great way to do just that! So, what exactly is a virtual 5K race?
Virtual 5K races are races that you can run or walk from anywhere, at any time, and at your own pace. You can run in your neighborhood, on a treadmill, or even at a local park. The best part? You still get a medal for completing the race!
One of the biggest benefits of virtual 5K races is that they are incredibly flexible. You don’t have to worry about finding a race that fits into your schedule or traveling to a specific location. Instead, you can choose a race that works for you and complete it whenever and wherever you want.
Another great benefit of virtual 5K races is that they are often more affordable than traditional races. You don’t have to worry about race fees or travel expenses, which can add up quickly.
Plus, many virtual races donate a portion of their proceeds to charity, so you can feel good about supporting a good cause while getting fit.
Virtual 5K races are also a great way to connect with other runners. Many virtual races have online communities where you can share your progress, connect with other runners, and even win prizes.
Overall, virtual 5K races are a fun and flexible way to stay motivated and engaged in your fitness routine. So why not sign up for one today?
How to Select a Virtual 5K Race with Medals
Medal Quality
When selecting virtual 5K races with medals, the quality of the medal is an important factor to consider. You want a medal that is well-made and visually appealing.
Look for medals that are made of durable materials like metal or acrylic, and have intricate designs or unique features like glitter or color-changing elements. It’s also important to consider the size of the medal. A larger medal can be a great way to showcase your accomplishment and add to your collection.
Registration Fees
Registration fees are another important factor to consider when selecting virtual 5K races with medals. You want to find a race that offers a fair price for the value you will receive. Look for races that offer a medal as part of the registration fee, rather than charging extra for it.
It’s also a good idea to compare the registration fees of different races to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.
Race Distance
The distance of the race is another important factor to consider when selecting virtual 5K races with medals. You want to find a race that offers a distance that is challenging but achievable for you.
Look for races that offer a variety of distances, from 5K to 10K or even a half marathon, so you can choose the distance that best fits your fitness level and goals. It’s also important to consider the time frame for completing the race.
Look for races that offer a flexible time frame, so you can complete the race at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Overall, when selecting virtual 5K races with medals, it’s important to consider the quality of the medal, registration fees, and race distance to ensure you are getting the best value for your money and a race that is both challenging and achievable for you.
My Closing Thoughts
As someone who loves running and participating in virtual races, I hope this list has been helpful in finding the perfect virtual 5k race with a medal for you. Remember to always check the race details, including the date, distance, and what the race package includes, before signing up.
Virtual races have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer flexibility, convenience, and the opportunity to connect with other runners from around the world. Plus, you get a shiny medal to add to your collection!
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, there’s a virtual 5k race out there for you. From themed races to charity runs, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. So lace up your running shoes, grab a friend (virtually, of course), and hit the pavement for your next virtual 5k race.
Happy running!
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David is an accomplished mountain endurance athlete who has completed over 25 ultra marathon races (follow on Strava). He is most proud of his finish at The Drift 100 – a high elevation, 100 mile winter foot race that zigzags along the Continental Divide in Wyoming. In the future he hopes to compete in the ITI 350 and ultimately the full 1,000 mile Iditarod Trail Invitational that follows the same path as the historic dog sled race.