- Do you pack your running shoes when going on vacation?
- Do you view getting your runs in while on vacation a great way to see the city?
- Or are you someone who considers going on vacation, a vacation from running?
As we’re getting vaccinated, many of us are going on our first “real” vacation since the lockdown. Borders are opening up and COVID cases are going down.
Where are you headed to?
I just returned from my 1st ‘real’ vacation since the pandemic. We went to Puerto Rico for a week over the Memorial Day holiday. Truth be told, I’m not excited about running while on vacation. I’m a creature of habit and I don’t like to run in unfamiliar surroundings where I don’t know what to expect next. I’d consider myself someone who wants a vacation from running. In this article, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of running while on vacation. Although I am not a fan of running on vacation, the pros outweighed the cons and I completed 3 runs while in Puerto Rico.
Pros of running on vacation:
- If you run early in the morning, you’ll get to see the sights without the big crowds.
- Maintain your fitness level. I personally find that my training level declines quickly if I don’t run for a week. Training-wise, it’s better to run (even if it isn’t at the same intensity or distance) than not at all during a week of vacation.
- Helps me keep those extra pounds off while eating out.
Cons of running on vacation:
- Packing running clothes and running shoes that take up space in your luggage.
- Washing or packing smelly running clothes on the trip home.
- Waking up early to go for your run. (I’d prefer to sleep in.)
- Finding a route to run without getting lost.
Although I am not a fan of running on vacation, the pros outweighed the cons and I completed 3 runs while in Puerto Rico. To be completely honest, I didn’t run at the same speed or intensity as my usual training runs, but those 3 runs helped me maintain my weight and fitness level.
Tips for running while on vacation:
- Pack your running shoes, running clothes, and accessories. For example, you may have a key card instead of your regular keys, bring a pouch or flip belt to carry your essentials.
- If you’re going to a major city, check for running groups nearby and join their group runs. It’s a great way to meet new people and run safely in an unfamiliar place.
- Take it easy on yourself; you may encounter more hills than what you’re used to; allow yourself walk breaks as you need. Don’t always expect to “throw down the miles” as you do at home.
- Google Maps is your friend. Check regularly where you are with your phone to avoid getting lost.