Save the date for some races and challenges that will keep you focused on achieving your 2016 fitness goals

Motivation can come in all shapes and sizes but many people find that signing up for an event, marking it on your calendar and making a public statement of intent and maybe even trying to get sponsorship for a worthy cause is a great way to ensure you put in the hard yards in training.

Here are five participatory events in the UAE that anyone can train for. We’ve indicated when registrations close, but in most cases last-minute registration may be available.

ADCB Zayed Sports City 5k and 10k Run: Friday 11th March

This unique community-based run takes place in the Zayed Sports City on closed roads, with start times from a pleasantly cool 6.45am. The event is organised by Abu Dhabi Striders and profits go to charity.

Last registration 6th March unless sold out.
premieronline.com

Zayed Marathon: Saturday 19th March

“This is the day the UAE runs”, says the promotional blurb, and it’s always a good event. There are categories for kids (1k for 8-11, 3k for 12-15) and for adults (anyone over 15 – 5k and 10k races). Registration costs AED 50 for kids, AED 100 for adults; all fees go directly to kidney research. There are cash prizes for the top three runners in the adult categories.

Last registration 14th March unless sold out.
premieronline.com

TriYAS by Daman’s Activelife: Friday 26th February

The region’s only day to night triathlon returns to the Yas Marina Circuit for a sixth consecutive year. Swim in the marina, transition at the Grand Prix pits, cycle the 5.5k track and run through Yas Marina – it’s arguably the fastest triathlon on the planet, but the emphasis is on setting personal targets and participating whether you are a first timer or a seasoned veteran. There are individual and team events for adults at Sprint and Olympic distances, plus a KidsTri for individuals.

Last registration 21st February unless sold out.
premieronline.com

 Wadi Adventure Race 12: Saturday 26th March

One of the toughest events in the UAE and only for the seriously fit. The course remains secret until race day, but is basically a 5km loop course with over 25 obstacles (that’s more than one every 200m!). There’s a choice of race distances: 5k (one loop), 10k (two loops), a 5K entry level with fewer obstacles, and “by popular demand” a new three-loop 15km with over 75 obstacles. This race includes running, swimming, climbing, crawling, jumping, balancing, swinging, wading, paddling, hurdling and dancing!

Last registration 20th March unless sold out.
premieronline.com

Al Wathba Cycle Series 2: From 15th February

Season two of this cycling event follows the Australian Pursuit Series format. Small groups of cyclists will set off at short intervals, with the aim of catching up to groups ahead of them. It’s a great race for novices. AED 80 for juniors, AED 100 for adults.

Last registration 10th February unless sold out.
premieronline.com