{Zabeg.RF} is one of the largest mass participation races, taking place simultaneously not only in Russia but also abroad. You can join in one of the listed cities or participate online. Here’s everything you need to know about this sporting event.
What we’ll cover:
– About the race
– Time and location
– Routes and distances
– Awards
– Personal preparation tips
Preparing for the {Zabeg.RF} 5 km from scratch. How to structure your nutrition plan?
Preparing for the {Zabeg.RF} 5 km from scratch: Part one of a beginner’s diary
**About the Race**
The history of the All-Russian Half Marathon {Zabeg.RF} began in 2017. The first race took place on May 21 in 10 cities, organized by the {League of Heroes} team. Gradually, more cities joined: in 2020, there were 30 host cities, with athletes from 19 additional cities participating online. {Zabeg.RF} entered the Guinness World Records as the {largest simultaneous half marathon held across multiple cities at the same time}.
By 2022, the number of locations doubled to 60 cities. The race also debuted in Moscow, covering central embankments and streets, with the finish line near Red Square. In 2023, the half marathon became international under the brand {One Run}, taking place in five countries. By 2024–2025, it expanded to 25 countries.
Given the vast number of participants and locations, records are hard to track. The best times in Moscow in 2025 were set by Vladimir Nikitin (men’s half marathon: 1:00.37) and Luiza Dmitrieva (women’s half marathon: 1:11.14).
Another unique feature of the race is the selection of the {Running Capital}. This is not determined by voting but by special criteria, including the average distance covered by all participants in a city, the ratio of participants to the total population, and the average running speed of all athletes.
The {Running Capitals} of {Zabeg.RF}:
– 2017 & 2018: Kazan
– 2019: Vladivostok
– 2020 & 2022: Nizhny Novgorod
– 2021 & 2025: St. Petersburg
– 2023: Lipetsk
– 2024: Magadan
In 2026, {Zabeg.RF} will take place in 30 countries, with organizers expecting over 250,000 participants worldwide. Spectators and fans won’t be bored either: most host cities will feature an Expo zone, souvenir shops, and food points.
**Time and Location**
The race will be held simultaneously in over 110 cities, with start times varying by time zone. The 21.1 km half marathon will start at 9:00 AM Moscow time on May 23. Start times for other distances depend on the schedule of each specific city.
To check if your city is on the list, visit the official race website. If it’s not listed, don’t worry—you can still participate by registering for the online format and following the rules.
**Routes and Distances**
Routes of {Zabeg.RF} run along central streets, the most scenic and runner-friendly areas of each host city. Participants can choose from four distances, either individually or as part of a team.
Training plan breakdown for one of the distances:
How to prepare for a 5 km run? Training plan and coach recommendations
| Distance | Time Limit | Age Requirement |
|———-|————|—————–|
| 1 km | 15 minutes | 6 years and older |
| 5 km | 50 minutes | 16 years and older |
| 10 km | 1 hour 30 minutes | 18 years and older |
| 21.1 km | 3 hours | 18 years and older |
To collect your race packet for any distance, you need a valid ID and a medical certificate. Participants under 18 must also provide parental consent.
**Awards**
Every athlete who successfully completes a distance will receive a finisher’s medal. An electronic certificate with your personal time will be sent to the email provided during registration. Results will be measured by judges and an electronic chip embedded in your race bib. Handle your bib carefully—do not fold it, and wear it prominently during the run.
For the 21.1 km and 10 km distances, awards will be given to the top three men and women in four age categories.
Age categories for the 21.1 km and 10 km distances in {Zabeg.RF}:
– 18–34 years (inclusive)
– 35–44 years (inclusive)
– 45–54 years (inclusive)
– 55 years and older
For the 5 km distance, there will be five age groups, with an additional category for {under 17}. For the 1 km distance, boys and girls in four age groups will also be awarded first through third places.
Age categories for the 1 km distance in {Zabeg.RF}:
– 6–9 years (inclusive)
– 10–12 years (inclusive)
– 13–14 years (inclusive)
– 15–17 years
Start preparing early to feel confident on race day. Pay attention not only to training but also to nutrition and gear—they affect both your finish time and your health.
**More interesting reads in our {Now You Know} section:**
– Why does runner’s knee syndrome occur, and can you continue training with it?
– How do the {fight, flight, freeze} reactions work? Psychologists explain.