Wildstride Race Series: 10k, 1/2 Marathon

Event Overview

Take a walk on the WILDSTRIDE!

• Date: April 12, 2026
• Location: 9801 York River Park Rd, Williamsburg, VA
• Website: Wildstride Race Series
• Hosted by: Happy Cat Fitness

Race Format

The event will combine bodyweight strength exercises with hiking/running intervals.

• Distance Options: Hikestrong 10k and Hikestrong Half
• Exercises: Low impact bodyweight challenges like squats, lunges, and push-ups.
• Course: 2.2 mile trail loop with beautiful scenery, hills, and uneven sections.
• Half Marathon: 6 loops with 6 strength stations at the start of each loop.

Training and Participation

Participants are encouraged to push themselves by wearing a weighted vest/rucksack for the hikes and/or exercise stations.

• Training: Workouts will be posted and emailed ahead of time to assist with training.
• Cutoff: Half Marathon will have a 5-hour cutoff: you can downgrade to the 10k mid-race if needed.
• Accessibility: Modifications will be provided for strength exercises, no equipment needed.
• Challenge: Ideal for cross training, combining running with strength exercises.

Inclusions

This race is non-competitive except with yourself!

• Finisher Award: All racers who complete the challenge will receive a finisher award and an official time.
• Support: Qualified fitness professionals will assist with form to ensure safety and motivation.
• Refreshments: Light refreshments including water and electrolytes will be available.
• T-shirts: Available for purchase: cutoff to order is March 23, 2026.

About the Host

As the owner of Happy Cat Fitness, I have been a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness instructor since 2010. Exercises can be modified and mimic functional activities for all fitness levels.

• Goal: A focus on strength training and its integration with running/hiking.
• Challenge Level: The event will be challenging, but achievable with training and commitment.
• Support: Ongoing assistance with workouts leading up to the race.
• Further Information: For more modifications, watch the video explanation here.

Sample Race Format

Example of the race format:

• 50 reps of a strength exercise (i.e., squats, lunges, push-ups)
• 2.2 mile Hike/Run loop
• 50 reps of a different exercise
• 2.2 mile Hike/Run loop

Strength Exercises

Here are the exercises for the WILDSTRIDE race (modification information available on happycatfitness.com):

• Squats
• Push Ups
• Lunges
• Bear Crawl (or mountain climbers)

• In and Outs (or standing knee to elbow march)
• Burpees (step or elevated step burpees)