For many, vacation is a much-needed break from everyday life – but if you're a runner, you know it doesn't mean your running shoes need a break. On the contrary, vacation can be a great chance to run in new surroundings, break from routine, and even have some unforgettable running experiences.
At the end of the article, I offer my suggestion for one shoe that can get you through all your training sessions, so you don't have to pack more than one pair. Nike Vomero 18 works for everything.
Here are four specific ways to keep your running training going – without it affecting either the holiday mood or your travel companions:
1. Run early morning
An early run is often the best solution during vacation. You get your training done before the day begins – and avoid the heat if you are somewhere warm.
Moreover, mornings are the calmest times, with paths, promenades, or city streets almost to yourself. It gives a special atmosphere and a good start to the day – so you can enjoy the rest of the day guilt-free – no matter what it brings.
You might also find a beautiful new beach or a trendy café to suggest visiting during the day.
2. Include your travel companions
It can be challenging to fit in training if you're with family or friends – but it doesn't have to be either-or. Make training part of the vacation.
A shorter joint run with family, an active walk, or just bringing your running shoes and inspiring others to do the same. It can make it easier to fit in training – without choosing between socializing and your running routine.
3. Adapt training to the vacation
If you have a set training program, use the vacation strategically. Keep your legs moving with a jog: If you're going to see something local, coordinate the transport with a run while others take the car or bike.
If you're away for a week, plan the vacation as a rest week and instead add more volume and intensity the week before or after.
This way, you maintain structure and progression in your training without clashing with the vacation's relaxed atmosphere. A planned break is far better than a half-hearted week with guilt and half-runs.
4. Use running to explore
If you ask me, there's hardly a better way to explore a new place than in running shoes. You quickly cover large distances, escape the most touristy spots, and see areas you might otherwise never experience.
A morning run through a foreign city, along the coast, or up into the mountains offers a unique experience – and often a sense of calm and presence that can be hard to find amid vacation activities. It's running at its best: free, curious, and without demands.
Save space and find the versatile shoe
When packing for vacation, I rarely have room for more than one pair of running shoes. So I always find a shoe in my shoe rotation that I know can help me through various sessions when limited to one pair.
Currently, my choice is the Nike Vomero 18: A shoe whose midsole, combining ZoomX and ReactX, excellently balances comfort with a pop you want for an easy pace.
It handles all three: very easy runs, easy pace, and if needed, speed.
Remember: Consistency is key
You don't have to follow the program strictly during vacation – but it makes a big difference to keep the body active. A few easy runs a week can be enough to maintain fitness, and being consistent with less intensity goes a long way.
So lace up and make running a natural part of your vacation – on your terms.
Have a great running holiday!
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