Tips for Running While on Vacation

By Janelle @ Run With No Regrets | training

Jul 22

Hi everyone, hope you had a great weekend!  For the second week, I am linking up with Tuesdays on the Run with Run the Great Wide SomewhereMy No-Guilt Life, and MCM Mama Runs.  This time, we’re talking about how to fit in running while on vacation, and this is definitely a timely post!

If you wondered why RWNR seemed to be in a bit of a hiatus, it’s because I was on vacation in Jamaica for the past week! My sister and I had an incredible time and was VERY relaxing.  I was too sad to leave this place!

So based on my recent experience, I’m going to share my recommendations for how to successfully keep your running commitments and eat as healthy as possible while on vacation!  Since I am training for the Philadelphia Rock & Roll Half Marathon, I know that I need to stay on track with my runs no matter where I am.  Coach Kristy scheduled two runs during my trip:  a 7 mile long, slow distance run, and a 3-mile easy run.  I didn’t think it’d be a big deal but it actually did get a little complicated figuring everything out!

Running While on Vacation

 

Running While on Vacation Tips:

Where to Run

If you’re a runner going on vacation, the first thing to know is where you can actually run.  It may seem silly for this to be a criteria when choosing a hotel or resort, but you don’t want to regret it!

  • Treadmill aka dreadmill.  It can be a drag, but it is usually the most convenient when available and during inclement weather.
  • Running trail. The most ideal for training.
  • Neighborhood streets. Just make sure it’s a safe location and avoid being out when its dark!

Pro tip: get a good idea of when the gym is empty. As I’ve learned there may only be one or two functioning treadmills and if they are all being used, it can really throw off your game!

What to Pack

  • Running Shoes
  • Workout Clothes
  • Watch or GPS tracking app
  • Water bottle/hydration belt
  • Energy gels
  • Sunscreen
  • Music Player

Eating Healthy While on Vacation

I can’t forget to mention how important it is to mind your eating while on vacation, especially if you’re training for a race.  While I definitely indulged myself, here are some of the things I did to not get too out of control:

  • Keep healthy snacks available throughout the day
  • Limit alcoholic drinks or stick to lower calorie options
  • Watch portion sizes at the buffets/restaurants
  • Drink a lot of water!
You may also like:  Chasing Joy and Rock & Roll Philly Half Training: Week 4 Recap

Staying Accountable for Your Goals

I know that we all have the best of intentions, but how many times have you gone on a trip only to leave your running clothes unworn?   Having someone or something to keep you honest can make all the difference!

  • Friends, family, or coworkers depending on the nature of the trip
  • Set a reminder in your calendar to run or do any other workouts
  • Think about how far behind you would be if you skip your workouts. Running while on vacation can actually be relaxing because you’re not preoccupied by other responsibilities.

Rock and Roll Half Marathon Week 2 Training

Monday 7/14:  4 mile run at 11:48 pace with Mark.  The heat and humidity were unbearable, and the last mile was the hardest.  But we got through it!

Tuesday 7/15:  Rest day.

Wednesday 7/16:  First day of Vacation!

Thursday 7/17:   Second day of vacation!

Friday 7/18:  Morning hip strengthening exercises, 45-minute spinning class and 30-minute yoga.

Saturday 7/19:  7 mile run on the treadmill at 11:31 pace, plus warm-up and cooldown.  It was the most annoying thing because the machine had a 30-minute limit so I had to constantly keep recalculating my distances.  But I got it done!  Knees and feet were hurting again short of mile 5.  Clif Shots worked well once again!

Sunday 7/20: 3 mile run on the beach at 11:41 average pace. Then I had an amazing sports massage with hot stones in the spa!

The sun was bright on the beach at the resort!

Training Report Card:

I would say this week has gone pretty well considering I had plenty of temptations! The 7-mile run was tough to squeeze in because we had an excursion on Saturday, so I didn’t run until after 5:30 pm.  Thankfully a treadmill was available!  Sunday’s run was bright and early but I know I started out too fast and the wind and uneven surface was a challenge for me. But I give myself an A- this week for getting in quality runs and prehab workouts!  I’m feeling pretty great…I love training!

What are your essentials for running while on vacation?  Where’s your next big trip?  

 

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