Oh how I wish I was writing this article from a balmy, tropical location. Instead I am on April vacation with the boys! 😉 Just because we are doing a staycation doesn’t mean we aren’t having fun though! We have a couple of fun day trips planned, and we will head to Providence, RI for some family fun and a Paw Sox game on Friday!
The arrival of April vacation got me thinking about how many fun places I have run on vacation and how it is SO WORTH IT to find the time to squeeze in a run while traveling! Running is such a great way to see the world, and you get a totally different experience exploring on foot, rather than car! Here are some tips for running on vacation:
Research Routes Ahead of Time
With the tools like Map My Run and other online running apps, it’s a lot easier to research running routes before you arrive at your destination. If you feel more comfortable with a personal recommendation, you can also call the hotel and speak to the concierge about running routes. Some hotels actually have maps of local running routes that they can provide for you.
Always make sure that you bring identification and let someone know where you will be running and when you expect to be back. If you’re traveling alone, let the hotel know on your way out– better safe than sorry! Some hotels like Westin have gone a step further and have “running concierges” to help guide you on your run through the city. They even have running gear available if you forget to pack yours!
Run to Local Attractions
I love exploring new areas on foot! Before your trip or after you land, check out some of the local attractions and run to them. You can meet the rest of your party there or check out the sights on your own! It’s a great opportunity to squeeze in a visit to a location that you might not see otherwise!
Contact Local Track Clubs or Running Groups
Look online and find local track clubs or running groups. Many larger groups have organized running groups that meet on weekdays and weekends. If you reach out ahead of time, you can plan to meet up with other runners to explore your destination or get in a good track workout! You can search the database of USATF track clubs HERE.
Run in the Morning
If you are traveling for business, you will likely have to run early in the morning; but even if you’re on vacation, it’s a good idea to get up and get out early. If you wait until a full day of vacation, you might not make it out later! Getting your workout done in the morning will give you the rest of the day to relax and enjoy being on vacation.
Do you run while on vacation? Any good tips to share?Â
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