Headed out-of-town to visit some relatives? Staying with family or friends can sometimes make it difficult to maintain a regular running schedule. But it’s possible to still get some runs in without coming across as a rude or inconsiderate guest. Try some of these strategies to make it easier on you and them:
Plan ahead.
Before you arrive on their doorstep, let your relatives know that you’re going to want to run during your stay. They’ll appreciate the advance notice, and they can give you recommendations for when to run, so your runs won’t interfere with family plans. You may also want to look on a site such as MapMyRun to search for local routes.
Run early in the morning.
You’re less likely to disturb family plans if you run first thing in the morning, rather than trying to squeeze your run in sometime during the day. Try to get out the door before the rest of the house wakes up. You’ll definitely win some brownie points with the in-laws if you return from your run with fresh bagels and coffee for everyone.
Ask family members to join you.
See if anyone in the family wants to run with you. You may have to run a slower pace than you’re used to, but use it as a recovery run. (Get some tips on how to help a new runner.) Even if no one else in the family runs, you can head to a local trail or track and see if anyone wants to walk while you run.
You might be surprised to find out that other family members are looking for an excuse to get out of the house and be active. Going for a run or enjoying the outdoors together could be a great bonding experience.
Cut back on your mileage.
Even if you’re close to your peak mileage for marathon training, you should have some rest weeks factored into your schedule. Use your family visiting time as an opportunity to give yourself a recovery week. You’ll still be able to run and maintain your fitness, but you won’t have to disappear for hours at a time to get a long run in.
Also see:
Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day Running Challenge
How to Keep Running During the Holidays
