Going on Vacation? Yes, you can still train!

By Shannon McNamara, Barrelman Ambassador

You know the drill, it is summer time. The kids are out of school. Your family is trying to plan a vacation. If you are like my husband and I, trying to plan vacations around the kids’ activities is bad enough, but throw in our training schedule…..forget about it.

I know that some people use their vacations as an opportunity to recover, but for us, we usually cannot afford to take that time off from training. So, we have just decided to embrace it. Training while on vacation can be a great thing, and here are the reasons why.

1. It gives you an opportunity to find your way around.

When traveling somewhere new, running or biking around the area really helps you get the lay of the land. You will find things you may not see from the car. You might find a cool trail, or restaurant, or attraction that is more difficult to see otherwise.

I remember traveling to Boston with my family once. We drove around forever trying to get to our hotel. We were so confused. One morning run later, I knew my way around the area and was able to navigate the rest of the trip.

2. It is rejuvenating.

Don’t all of your training routes get mundane? There are so many new things to see while you are on vacation. Beautiful sights and sounds that you aren’t used to. Having a change of pace and new scenery can really re-motivate you.

3. It can jump start your day.

Sometimes when you are on vacation, you have a lot of things on your bucket list. Sometimes those things don’t get checked off because everyone is slow moving in the morning. Getting up and starting the day with a workout, might be just what the whole family needs to get going for the day’s activities.

4. It can give you one-on-one time with your spouse, your child, or yourself.

Even on vacation, it is nice to have some quiet time with a special someone or just by yourself. I treasure the runs I have had with my husband or one or both of my daughters while on vacation. Those moments just add to the blessings and memories of the trip.