“The Great North Run is different to other marathon events – we don’t promise amazing views, but the best atmosphere possible,” says Catherine Foster, brand director for GNR. “We knew if we wanted to translate that to a virtual event, we’d have to recreate the feeling, the noise and the encouragement of being there. That was why audio seemed to be the natural option.”

Using the platform viRace, participants will be able to go ahead with the biggest half marathon event in the country, and feel like they’re there. “The idea is that everyone will start at the same time, and it will feel as though they are running along with the other runners and the crowds,” explains Catherine. The app will tracks your distance in the background and gives you mile marker updates, as well as sharing sounds from the race and sending messages from celebrities to motivate you throughout your run. No physical race course or crowds has also meant that it’s free to enter, and you can sign up until 4 September even if you hadn’t entered the race previously.

Is audio fitness the new workout trend that will help you hit your goals?