The city's biggest fun run and walk does not officially launch until later this month but Dr Zentveld said it took time to map out goals or rally a team and, based on general widespread lack of motivation this year, it was worth starting to mentally warm up to the idea.

The Ballarat Foundation confirmed last week Run for a Cause would return in a virtual format in November, due to ongoing COVID uncertainties. This time the Foundation has set an ambitious $50,000 fundraising target with the goal for participants to chalk up a combined 50,000 kilometres.

Dr Zentveld is already preparing to run 500km to match her efforts last year but with a bit more consistency. On average, this equates to almost 17km each day in November but she will adjust as need, remaining conscious of not letting the kilometres start to build up to too much of a marathon effort.

The tourism and management specialist for Federation University, a Run major sponsor, said it did not matter what people's individual or team goals were, but it was a great chance to start setting goals and feeling more positive.

"People have been disappointed and demotivated when things didn't happen this year," Dr Zentveld said. "This is a chance to set goals. The certainty of goal for this event is nice and people can be assured it will be running.

"If uncertain about personal safety and risk, you can set your own course and choose who to run with or whether to run alone.

"It's been quite a tough year, tougher than last I think because of the tougher lockdowns. People have become like hermits because we've been like that for so long and it can be uncomfortable to go out.

"This is an opportunity to participate or to support those participating to help a great organisation."

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The cause in focus this year is fundraising for back to school vouchers to buy supplies for families in need.

Dr Zentveld said so many families across Ballarat had been struggling during the pandemic and every step could help children be equipped to get back into the classroom.

As the weather warmed, Dr Zentveld hoped people would be more keen to be outside, even if their usual exercise groups remained sidelined or limited.

Dr Zentveld's eldest son James will be out running supportive kilometres with her in November. She said even a couple of kilometes with someone else along the journey could make a big difference in motivation.

Run for a Cause registrations open October 18: ballaratfoundation.org.au.

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