Holiday Running

We look at some of the reasons why you should embrace holiday running

You're in the middle of a training plan or you're working hard on trying to improve your fitness and you have a two week holiday coming up. What do you do? Keep going of course, but differently. It's important not to lose momentum; two weeks, or even a week missed can have a real impact on progress and running in a different climate and destination can be a real adventure.

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There are lots of reasons to run when you're on holiday. If you're just starting out and it's weight loss that is the main focus, or if you're following a training plan and you've a big event coming up, running when you're in a new destination can be inspiring and can make your break even more special.

Don't miss time from your training plan

If you're following a training plan for a half or full marathon, it's important you don't miss a week or two, whatever stage you're at. The plan will always build in some contingencies in the case of injuries, but you don't want to use that up, in case you do get some injuries later on. you'll have plenty of occasions where you might miss valuable running time later that could impact your schedule, but let a vacation be one of them. There is an argument to say that you're on vacation so you should use the time to rest and recover from everything in your life, but remember that your training plan has rest already built into it, so don't add too much more.

An opportunity to explore

If your vacation destination is new to you then running is the perfect way to explore it. Find locations for places to go and things to do later, while getting some quality exercise at the same time. There are likely to be some gems near your accommodations that you might discover. A run might just unearth some. You'll be amazed at how many incredible places will be on your doorstep that you could miss. Every day when you run on vacation try and go somewhere different. Chances are that every day you'll find something different. You're also likely to bump into some fascinating people, especially if you have headed off to an exotic destination.

A change in terrain

Chances are you'll have the opportunity to give your joints a break and enjoy some off road running when you're away. Running on the beach can be an invigorating experience but be cautious. Harder sand can be better, the softer it is the more pressure you can put on vulnerable parts like the dreaded achilles tendon. It's best to keep your running shoes on when you're running on the beach, even though it can be very tempting not to.

Counter to excesses!

It is totally normal for a vacation to be the excuse for some excess and why not. Maybe more fatty foods and more alcohol than normal? Maybe if it's a business trip then not so much, but very likely on a leisure trip. With a decent run every couple of days you'll be able to burn off the excess calories and be guilt free! The next time you're thinking of another sugary dessert or another local beer you won't be worrying.

The perfect start or end of the day

There's no better way to start or end a day. A run fills the body with endorphins and give us a real mood lift. On vacation it's the perfect way to start the day and a great way to end it. It's often easier when you're away to do a run as soon as you get up and then you can focus on family and friends and not have to worry about it later. How good does it feel going to breakfast knowing you've just been out and got some miles in the legs? There is no better feeling than the self righteous feeling when you're in a group and you're the only one that has been for a run!

A potential kick start

Vacation running can often be what's needed to start a new chapter in your life and actually begin a new fitness regime. Vacations give you time to think, away from the pressures of everyday life. It's a great time to assess some of your life goals and one of those might well be to improve your health and well-being. A vacation gives you time to get into fitness. One of the challenges then is to find the time when you get back home.

A break from vacation routine

Another benefit of running on vacation is being able to spend some time on your own. It can be strange spending so much time with people who you normally see for a few hours a day. Even if they are your nearest and dearest it can still be a shock to the system. Going for a good run gives you a chance to have a break and come back refreshed and ready to enjoy their company again! If all you've done is lie on a beach all day, going for a run can be the perfect way to have a change of scenery!

Meet new running partners

With the growth in social media it's never been easier to meet new people and the same applies to runners when you're on vacation. If you like running with others it won't be difficult to find others enjoying a break or locals or will be happy to show you the best places to run. Most local running clubs and groups welcome visitors so find out what options there are and get in contact with them.

Running when you're away, either for business or leisure, opens up so many opportunities. It's a great shame to miss out on these so pack your running shoes and get out there!