2025 Bucket List: Runner’s Edition

It’s time to add a little spice into your 2025 running routine! This bucket list is all about turning your everyday running into so much more—whether that’s hitting new personal records, exploring incredible new race destinations, or just stepping outside your comfort zone to try something new. When you have exciting goals to work toward, you start to look at every run as an opportunity to check off something meaningful, rather than just going through the motions.

It’s not just about big milestones; it’s also about small everyday moments that add depth to your running journey. These little extras can refresh your perspective, introduce you to inspiring new landscapes, and challenge you to push beyond your usual limits. It’s a blend of goals you can start working on today, alongside bigger dreams that might take some planning, saving, training, and maybe even a little luck to achieve. The point is to keep your motivation high, and your running routine exciting and meaningful.

So lace up and let’s make 2025 your best running year yet.

HERE WE GO:

• Run a 5k.
• Run a 10k.
• Run a Half Marathon.
• Run a Marathon.
• Hit a PR. Set your sights on breaking your own personal best in 2025. Whether it's a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon, hitting a new PR will push your limits and give you a major sense of achievement.
• Do a sunrise run.
• Do a sunset run.
• Run a race in a new city. Some notable races include the Boston Waterfront 5K, Santa Monica Classic (5k & 10k), Bolder Boulder (10k), Honolulu Marathon, Big Sur International Marathon (5k, 12k, Marathon, Marathon Relay), and the Peachtree Road Race (10k).
• Run a race in a different country. Save the rest and relaxation for another time. The real memories come from hitting the pavement (or trails) and exploring a new place on foot.
• Complete a running streak. Commit to running every day for a period of time. Whether it’s a 365-day streak or a 100-day streak, the consistency will pay off with stronger habits, better fitness, and mental resilience.
• Do a Fun Run or Obstacle Race. Mix it up with a quirky, non-competitive race designed purely for fun and enjoyment. These races focus on having a good time and often feature cool themes, costumes, and challenges.
• Volunteer at a race. Give back to the running community by volunteering at a race. Help with registration, aid stations, or cheer on runners. Volunteering will give you a new appreciation for the work that goes into race day and is a great way to stay connected with fellow runners.
• Go trail running. Embrace the great outdoors. Whether it’s through a forest, across mountains, or through rugged terrain, trail running offers a beautiful and challenging experience
• Better yet, go trail running in a National Park. Or take it to the next level and check two things off your bucket list by completing a Half Marathon at a National Park.
• Try a Virtual Race. Sometimes life gets busy, or you want to run a race from the comfort of your own town. Virtual races offer flexibility, while still letting you be part of a larger community.
• Explore a new running route. Break up the monotony of your usual routes, preventing those "same-old" feelings that can make running feel like a chore. New paths offer the thrill of discovery—whether it’s a hidden trail, a scenic park, or a new neighborhood—keeping your mind engaged and motivated.
• Join a Run Club. The motivation and camaraderie from training with others will help keep you accountable and push you to new heights in your running journey. If you’re already part of one, try a new one! Get out of your comfort zone. We host 3 weekly runs (April-October) at Performance Running Outfitters. These free runs are open to all paces (including walkers), range from 3-6 miles, and always end with refreshments and socializing.
• Set a mileage goal every month. This will help keep you focused and motivated. Track your progress with Strava or a running watch.
• Add cross-training to your routine. Incorporate cross-training activities like swimming, cycling, yoga, or strength into your weekly routine to build muscle, prevent injuries, and improve overall fitness. Focus on building core strength, which is crucial for a strong running posture.
• Take a Strava Challenge
• Do a hilly run and hit a new elevation gain PR.
• Hit the local track. Try out some speedwork at a local track. Start small by running faster on the straights and taking it easy or walking on the turns to recover.

BONUS: Track your progress with a running journal or blog. Document your 2025 running journey by writing about your training, race experiences, lessons learned, and how you feel throughout the process. It can serve as both a personal memory and a source of inspiration for future you.

As you set your sights on the year ahead, let this bucket list be your roadmap to new challenges, unforgettable experiences, and personal growth. Whether you’re chasing PRs, exploring new routes, or conquering races in far-off places, every goal is a step toward making your running journey more exciting and meaningful.

The best part of the journey is always the miles you haven’t yet run. Here's to a year full of new horizons, lasting memories, and endless motivation—let’s make 2025 your most epic running year yet!