FAQ
Can I run or walk to meet my mileage goal?
Yup - for sure. Both activities count. Get moving!
You guys are Roadless Races, do I have to run/walk on trails for this challenge?
Nope, run or walk anywhere - trails, roads, sidewalks, beach, greenways, gravel, a track, on the treadmill in your garage, etc. Of course, we think trails are the bee's knees and encourage you to explore and discover the tranquility, beauty, and health benefits of running on trails. But, this is a personal challenge, NOT A RACE. So, challenge yourself, have fun, and RUN or WALK MORE - that's what this is all about!
Can I count my normal daily activities as walking miles for this challenge?
The intent is really what we are going for. In the spirit of the challenge, you should be intentional with the runs/walks that you record. If you choose to walk somewhere instead of driving to accumulate some walking miles, yes this counts. Walking around the house, the office, or grocery store as part of your daily routine does not count. BUT, if you knock out a mile with 100 laps around your basement, that counts. Again, it's all about the intent.
How do I track my miles?
Track miles with your phone, GPS watch, or old school paper map. If you don't have any of these available, run or walk for time and estimate the distance to match your effort and terrain. For example, you MIGHT use 8 min/mile for fast road running on mostly flat surface, 14 min/mile for moderate trail running with some hills, and 20 min/mile for walking on your neighborhood sidewalks. If you don't know your pace, use the following as a guide:
- 22 min of walking on the trail = 1 mile
- 18 min of walking on the road = 1 mile
- 15 min of jogging on the trail = 1 mile
- 12 min of jogging on the road = 1 mile
- 12 min or running on the trail = 1 mile
- 10 min of running on the road = 1 mile
Obviously, if you're cranking out miles on a treadmill, use the distance on the monitor.
Do I have to complete all 28 miles on one activity?
No, no, no - ACCUMULATE those miles during the month of February. Of course, if you want to grind out all those miles in one epic day, have at it!
What happens if I miss a day of inputting my results?
No problem. You can input results after every activity, every day, once every few days, etc. Just make sure the date is correct for each inputted activity. This is important if you are going for the Every Day Challenge.
How do I change my target mileage goal from the 28 mile default goal?
After you input an activity, scroll to 'Goals' near the bottom of that activity page, and select 'Edit Personal Goals'. You can also find this by editing any of your previous activities.
What happens if I surpass my mileage goal?
We have set up the results so you can surpass your mileage goal of 28 miles (or whatever you choose). Run or walk as much as you can during February and if you surpass your mileage goal then 'good on ya' and we will celebrate with you!
What happens if I do not complete my miles?
Life happens and sometimes, in spite of our best intentions, we fall short of our goals. Do your best to meet your mileage goal and if you don't succeed, hey, you gave it your best shot and that's an accomplishment in itself. FYI - you can always reassess your goals and change your target mileage if you like.
I didn't learn about this challenge until after it started on February 1st, can I still participate?
Absolutely, you have until Sunday, February 8th to sign up, and you can still log activities from anytime after February 1st.
What is the Every Day Challenge?
In addition to your main mileage goal of 28+ miles, you may choose to challenge yourself to run or walk EVERY DAY during the month of February. If you achieve this goal (by logging miles and inputting at least one activity/day during Feb), you'll earn digital badges along the way, and an additional item of swag (Zen Squirrel head wrap - different than the one included with registration). Nice!
How do teams work?
Adventures are more fun with friends so create a team and invite your friends to join you in this challenge. Teams can have up to 10 members. Track the progress of your teammates and cheer them on! See how many miles your team can accumulate and see how your team stacks up against other teams in the event. Awards (Zen Squirrel pom hat) will be given to each team member of the TOP FIVE teams with the most overall miles.
NOTE: This is not a relay so all team members will still be shooting for their individual goal of 28+ total miles. Again, you may change your mileage goal when you input your results.
How do I create a team or join a team?
During registration, registrants will be asked if they would like to create or join a team. Click yes and follow the instructions. You can also create or join a team after you register by logging into runsignup, going to your profile, selecting the manage registration link in the Zen Squirrel Challenge section under upcoming races, and choosing the groups/teams link in the top navigation.
What are the giveaways all about?
All participants are eligible to win random giveaway prizes distributed at three intervals (on day 10, day 20, and at the end of the challenge). Giveaways include great stuff - Goodr sunglasses (15 pair - 5 pair/giveaway period) and Zen Squirrel swag.
What are the bonus challenges?
The Every Day Challenge is the first bonus challenge, and that spans the entire month. Two additional bonus 'challenge within the challenge' will be introduced via email on Day 11 and Day 21. If you complete any of the bonus challenges, you will earn extra swag. Sweet!
What are the photo themes all about?
Sharing photos is a fun element of the challenge. It's a great way to feel more connected and engaged to the challenge, and to other participants. And since participants are from all over the country, it's fun to see what winter looks like in Washington, or Arizona, or Florida, or North Carolina. Three photo themes will be introduced via email on Day 1, Day 11, and Day 21. Post photos and you may win a prize!
How do I upload photos?
Share your photos on the runsignup platform. You may win a prize! To upload photos, log into runsignup, go to your profile, click on the Zen Squirrel Challenge, click on photos in the top navigation bar, go to your gallery, click on upload images.
