Thinking of Running Away From Home? Go For It!

woman running on beach while on vacation

It can be a challenge to stick to a running routine at home. It's even more of a challenge to commit to your runs when traveling or on vacation. But being away from home doesn't automatically quarantine you to lackluster runs on a hotel treadmill (or worse—no running at all!). With a little forethought and planning, you can enjoy running routes all over the globe.

Search the Web

Myfavoriterun.com allows you to search by city, state, or zip code to find routes recommended by other runners. A map will pop up with the route outlined for you as well as details such as distance, pavement, hills, city/country run, level of difficulty, etc. Other sites for worldwide routes include run.com and mapmyrun.com.

Another idea is to Google running clubs in the area where you'll be traveling. Area runners are typically only too happy to hook up a fellow runner with local route information and may even volunteer to accompany you on a run.

If you're nervous about trekking out into unfamiliar territory, seek out a local high school track or ask the hotel concierge to direct you to a safe place to run.

Stay Safe

While running in new cities offers you the chance to explore new territory, remember to stay safe. If you're traveling alone, let the hotel staff know where you're going and that you'll check back in on your return. Use the same safety strategies you'd apply at home and make sure you know where you're going and how to get back. If you'll be running in new altitudes or unaccustomed temperatures, take some water and a cell phone along with you.

Head Out

The most important thing is simply to get out the door and go. Don't worry about tracking time or mileage. A quick two-mile run in the morning before the rest of your vacationing family arises or a mile run in the evening after a day filled with meetings is still better than no run at all. You'll feel better and have more energy for the day's activities.

Best of all, you're honoring your commitment to your running program.

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