Running While On Vacation

Running on vacation - anyone else with me? It seems like every time I pack for a vacation, it includes a running outfit or two. Taking time to sneak in a couple runs on vacation really makes a difference for me, and here's how:

 

 Helps me stay on schedule and keep a sense of normalcy 
It seems like there's always a race I'm training for, so keeping up with a training plan (loosely) helps me stay on track. I don't usually go on vacation with the intention of running or working out daily, but sneaking in a few runs here and there really helps!

 Running in new places and seeing new sights can be fun!
There's something exciting about running in a new place, be it a resort, a cruise ship, or even a track at a hotel (yes that's happened once)!

A lot of vacays are centered around race weekends
A good way to stay active on a vacation is to include a race in your plans! 

Most resorts have a running track, path, or gym
It's been a long while since I stayed at a resort that did not have some form of workout location. Hitting the gym early before it gets crazy is always my plan and it seems to work! If I'm running outside, I like to make sure the sun is at least rising because running in a strange place in the dark doesn't seem like a safe idea.

Helps me feel less guilty about eating all the foods...and desserts
I mean, it IS vacation after all. Any calorie counting goes out the window and I tend to eat all the things! Adding on a few miles here and there helps me feel less guilty about indulging while on vacation. 

It's the Tuesdays On The Run Linkup with Erika, Marcia and Patty. 

Working Out On Vacation

School is out over most of the country and that means one thing - summer break is in session! For many families with school aged children, out of town travel and summer vacations tend to take place.

If you're like me when you travel, you like to keep up with some sort of running schedule while away. Most of the time for me, that doesn't necessarily involve a super long run but instead, several shorter runs throughout the week. In my mind, some running is better than none, right? Yep. :)

Before traveling, I tend to do a few things to prepare for the new area and new scenery I'm about to see - running some place new is always exciting!

#1: If staying at a hotel or resort, I always check to make sure a workout facility is available before I even confirm the booking. Running on a treadmill isn't my favorite thing in the world (I don't like it one bit), but I'll do it if I have to. Also, if a gym or workout facility is available, are classes offered? You could even try something new like yoga or spin!

#2: A little research of the area usually takes place - is the area around the resort/hotel safe for an outdoor run? Is there a special running path or set route already at the resort? Are sidewalks available?

#3: Does the area have a running group that meets at a set time/location? Meeting new runners is always fun and most of the time (in my experience at least), running groups are welcoming to new people! These groups will also have a set route available, that way you don't have to worry too much about where you're going!

#4: Is there a local race taking place during your vacation week? Running a new race in a new area is always fun, you don't have to worry about water or a route, and you usually get some sort of swag (a tshirt, medal, etc) for your efforts!

#5: This may sound silly, but packing my running shoes and running clothes usually gives me that little extra boost to get out the door and go for a run. I mean, if I took the trouble to bring the items with me, I might as well use them, right?

Whats your best tip for getting a run/workout in while on vacation?

It’s FRIDAY!
Link up with Running on Happy & Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup!