When traditions start with a pair of running shoes
Christmas and New Year are not only times for fun, family and celebrations; for many running enthusiasts, it is also an opportunity to lace up your running shoes and participate in special running traditions. Traditionally, people start Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve by getting their bodies moving in order to be ready for the evening's hardships. This also provides a unique opportunity to start the day with fresh air and community.
Christmas Eve Run: 24.12 km for December 24th
A popular tradition among runners is to run 24.12 kilometers on Christmas Eve as a symbolic gesture for December 24th. This race can be a personal challenge or organized as a joint event among friends and running clubs. It is a great way to get your head and digestion going before Christmas dinner and at the same time enjoy the special atmosphere that characterizes the day. If you have to cook in the kitchen or are still training, you can easily run 5 or 12 kilometers. The most important thing is to get outside and get some fresh air in your cheeks.
New Year's run: Half or full marathon on December 31st
Similarly, you can choose to run on New Year's Eve. For example, you can run 12 kilometers to mark the 12 months of the year. If you want to end the year with a bang, a half or even a full marathon is the way to go. 21.0975 kilometers and 42.195 kilometers respectively. This race serves as a reflection on the year that has passed and as a fresh start for the coming year. Some runners also participate in official New Year's races, where the distances can vary, but what they have in common is the desire to end the year actively and in good company.
Tips for running in the winter months
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Dress appropriately.
Dressing in layers helps regulate your body temperature. The rule of thumb is to dress as if it is 5-10 degrees warmer than what the thermometer shows. This is because your body heats up during running, and if you dress too warmly, you can quickly become uncomfortable.
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Pay attention to the substrate
Be careful on slippery roads and consider shoes with good grip. This could be a pair of trail running shoes. See our selection here.
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Remember your head and hands
It's important to keep your head warm and be able to adjust to the weather and temperature. A neck warmer is versatile and can be used as a headband, hat, balaclava or scarf.
Hands and fingers are particularly vulnerable in the cold, and icy fingers can be very uncomfortable. Choose gloves and hats in materials such as wool, synthetic fabric or with a windstopper membrane for optimal protection. See our selection here.
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Keep your motivation up.
Plan a run with friends or join local races to keep your spirits up.
Local running events during Christmas and New Year
There are several organized races in Denmark around Christmas and New Year that you can participate in. We have collected a few below, but keep an eye on what is happening in your local area:
Thank you for your support 2024 in Ulstrup
This race will be held on December 21st in Ulstrup and features a half marathon distance. The race is organized by two women who love running, who have been behind fitness races since 2021 with a focus on beautiful routes, a great depot and unique medals.
Christmas run in Haslev
On December 22nd, you can participate in a Christmas run in Haslev with distances of 1 km, 5 km, 10 km and half marathon. The race is suitable for both runners and walkers, and there is also a children's race, making it a family-friendly event.
Christmas run around Søndersø
This race takes place on December 24th and offers a half marathon distance around the scenic Søndersø Lake. It's a great way to start Christmas Eve with a brisk run.
New Year's Race 2024 – Sparta Athletics & Running
Held on December 31, 2024 with start and finish at Gunnar Nu Hansens Plads 11, 2100 Copenhagen Ø. There are distances of 2 km, 5 km, 10 km and half marathon. The race is open to everyone, and there is a tradition of festive dressing up.
Hvidovre New Year's Run 2024
Takes place on December 31, 2024 starting from Langhøjskolen, Hvidovre Strandvej 70A, 2650 Hvidovre. There are distances of 2.5 km, 5 km, 12.5 km and half marathon. The race is open to everyone, and there are prizes for the fastest and best costume.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner, the holidays are a great opportunity to incorporate running into your traditions. So lace up your running shoes, enjoy the fresh winter air, and make your Christmas and New Year's Eve even more memorable.
At Marathon Sport, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
