Only runs logged from the date you register and onwards count towards badges. The reason for this is because we wanted everyone to start on a level playing field when they join Smashrun. Otherwise, ultra runners or anyone with several years of training history will earn almost all the badges right after they sign up… which kind of defeats the purpose of the badges.
There are 3 sets, not including special ones that you won’t know about unless you unlock them (like easter eggs!). Badges that are grouped together follow the same theme. Some groups of badges progressively become more difficult until you get to the last one, such as the marathon series.
Some have the same theme, but have an equal level of difficulty like the time of day series.
All of the badges are designed to challenge you in some way. Occasionally, they encourage you to try something a little crazy like running at sunrise and sunset on the longest day of the year.
But many of them try to teach something, like base building…
… pacing yourself over long distances …
… or just getting out there more often, even on the tougher months.
These badges cater to a wide range of runners. The goal isn’t necessarily to earn all them (although some Smashrunners are trying to do that!), but to use them as guideposts when you feel like you’ve hit a plateau, a mental block, or just need to try something different.
In other words, have some fun with it!