Cross country runs

Cross country runs, sometimes abbreviated to XC, are running events over natural terrain such as dirt and grass and occasionally gravel paths. Cross country is common during winter, making them ideal training events even through rain and snow.

The varying terrain makes cross country running about your strength and technique rather than pure time over distance as in road racing. Whether you're looking for a change of pace or want to stay competitive throughout winter, there are cross country runs for every age and ability. Just don't expect to stay clean as mud is more common than not!

FIND A CROSS COUNTRY EVENT

Choose a distance
You can pick from anything from short fun events up to 12km and beyond. And you'll often find cross country races are run over laps of around 2km.
Browse cross country listings

When?
These are mostly held in the winter months, from October until March, with the National Championships usually held at the end of February.
Cross country calendar

Where?
Cross country started in the UK and used to involve hedges and streams. Now the emphasis is on rolling, grassy circuits, which can become muddy but allow you to keep running throughout. Today you'll find XC in every part of the UK.

Who is best suited?
Cross country brings together multiple running disciplines, including road and track. It's ideal winter training but has its own competitive element if you want the thrill of the race.

ESSENTIAL INFO

What to expect
The courses are usually well marked, with smooth turns and enough space for overtaking. Everyone starts at the same time.

Be part of a club
This is a good idea on many levels - entry fees are nearly always cheaper if you are a member of UK Athletics-affiliated running club. There's also a team aspect to many of these events, which gives an added dimension.
Find a running club

Be spiky
The kit is very similar to road running, with the key difference being many people use spikes, providing the route is on a soft surface. And given they are held in winter, a long-sleeved top and running tights are other options to consider.

Relax...and breathe in the fresh air
Enjoy the countryside - and don't worry about your time as the nature of these events means you'll be much slower than running on the road.
The benefits of off-road running

MORE IDEAS

Other off-road runs
If you've enjoyed cross country running, then there are plenty of other options which also get you away from the traffic and out into the country.
Find a trail run Mud runs Multi-terrain More runs

Give cyclo-cross a try
Want to mix up your training? Cyclo-cross events are held on similar terrain and combine mostly cycling with some cross country running thrown in.
Cyclo-cross explained