For many, vacation is a much-needed break from daily life – but if you're a runner, you know it doesn't necessarily mean your running shoes should take a break. On the contrary, vacation can be a perfect opportunity to run in new surroundings, break the routine a bit, and even have some of the most memorable running experiences.
At the end of the article, I give my suggestion for one shoe that can take you through all 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 routine going – without affecting either the holiday vibe or those you're traveling with:
1. Run in the Morning
A morning run is often the best solution on vacation. You get your workout done before the rest of the day begins – and you avoid the heat if you're in a place with high temperatures.
Moreover, mornings are usually the most peaceful times, where you have trails, 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 with a clear conscience – no matter what it brings.
You might also find a beautiful new beach or a trendy cafe that you can suggest visiting together during the day.
2. Include Your Travel Companions
It can be challenging to fit in training if you're away with family or friends – but it doesn't have to be either-or. Make training a part of the vacation.
A shorter joint run with the 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 having to choose 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, you can coordinate transportation with a run while others take the car or bike.
If you're away for a week, it might be a good idea to plan the vacation as a recovery week and instead add more volume and intensity in the week leading up to or right after.
This way, you maintain structure and progression in your training, but without it clashing with the more relaxed holiday setting. A planned break is far better than a half-panicked week with guilt and half-hearted 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, get away from the most touristy spots, and see areas you might never have experienced otherwise.
A morning run through a foreign city, along the coast, or up in the mountains offers a unique experience – and often a sense of peace and presence that's hard to find amidst holiday activities. It's running at its best: free, curious, and without demands.
Save Space and Find the Versatile Shoe
When I pack for vacation, I rarely have room for more than one pair of running shoes. That's why I always find a shoe in my
, which I know can help me through various sessions when limited to one pair.
Currently, my choice is Nike Vomero 18: A shoe whose midsole, combining ZoomX and ReactX, excellently balances comfort and the pop you want for a light pace.
It handles all three: easy runs, light pace, and even speed if necessary.
Remember: Consistency is Key
You don't need to follow the program strictly during vacation – but it makes a huge difference to keep the body moving. A few easy runs a week can be enough to maintain fitness, and you can achieve a lot by being consistent, even with lower intensity.
So lace up your shoes and make running a natural part of your vacation – on your terms.
Have a great running vacation!
