Preparing for the World Race: What to Expect Spiritually, Physically, and Emotionally

Spoiler: It’s going to stretch you in the best way.

So, you’re going on the World Race?
Cue the hype. The packing lists. The late-night Googling. The mini freakouts.

Whether you’re counting down the days or still deciding if the Race is for you, this guide is your backstage pass to what really goes down before you hit the mission field.

Because this isn’t just a trip. It’s a life-changer.

First up: Get Your Mind Right

You know that “expect the unexpected” vibe? That’s the Race.

So how do you mentally prepare for months of mission work, cultural immersion, community life, and spiritual growth?

Here’s the mindset menu:

• Hold everything loosely. That includes your schedule, your plans, your preferences – and your shampoo brand.
  
• Flexibility is survival. Some days, things will go wrong. Other days, they’ll go so right. Learn to roll with it all.
  
• You’re not the hero. God is. You’re the willing vessel. That mindset shift? Game-changer.
  

Your Soul’s Going to Stretch

The Race will absolutely stretch you spiritually in the best way. But that stretching starts now.

Spiritual practices to start right away:

• Make space. Start creating a daily rhythm for quiet time with God. If you can’t find ten minutes at home, you’ll definitely struggle in a house with thirty other people and no air conditioning.
  
• Practice listening. Try listening prayer. Ask God simple questions and get used to the stillness.
  
• Surrender on repeat. One of your biggest pre-Race spiritual workouts is letting go. Of expectations, timelines, comfort zones, and sometimes even your identity props.
  

Your Body’s In This Too

You don’t need to be a CrossFit champion. But you will be walking a lot, squatting over hole-in-the-ground toilets, and carrying a backpack that feels like it weighs as much as your emotional baggage.

Pre-race physical prep tips:

• Break in your gear. Don’t wait until month one to discover your shoes are the enemy. Wear them now.
  
• Train smart. Focus on mobility, endurance, and carrying weight. Think hiking, walking, stretching – not just gym reps.
  
• Get your shots and meds. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary. And do it early, no one likes a last-minute yellow fever panic.

Welcome to Your Emotional Glow-Up

The World Race will bring up your stuff. All your control issues, comparison games, and “don’t cry in front of people” energy? They’ll get a front-row seat.

But it’s all part of the breakthrough.

How to prep emotionally:

• Find your people. You’ll need friends, mentors, or counselors who can speak life over you now. Let them in.
  
• Practice healthy processing. Journal. Talk it out. Take time to reflect.
  
• Start the unlearning. You don’t have to show up strong. Show up surrendered. The Race isn’t about having it all together – it’s about letting Jesus meet you in your mess.
  

What You Won’t Expect (But Should)

You might not expect:

• To have your heart broken open by a conversation on a dusty street in Albania.
  
• To find joy in a spontaneous worship night in the Philippines.
  
• To be transformed by the quiet moments just as much as the wild ones.

But we promise, you’ll never be the same.

Ready to Pack More Than a Bag?

The Race will challenge your body, your comfort zone, your theology, and your playlist. But it will also awaken your purpose, deepen your faith, and introduce you to a global family you didn’t know you needed.

Learn more about the World Race and start getting ready for the ride of your life.

Click here to explore routes!