" Such a race is called a road race. Road racing offers competitors a variety of challenges to overcome such as hills, sharp bends, varied pavement, inclement weather, and a large group to compete against- or with . Aerobic fitness, or the ability of the body to utilize oxygen, is important to have to complete the long distances. Anaerobic fitness, that is, the body's capability at responding when there isn't enough oxygen for the muscle, is necessary to charge up hills and past competitors on the finish line. A common saying for runners is that the sport is 90% mental. Recreational running became popular due to high-profile runners such as Steve Prefontaine. Race courses are usually held on the streets of major cities and towns but they could be on any sealed road. America Race Walking Athletes Most road races are either 5 km (3. 1 miles), 10 km (6. "