It's always tricky to stay on track with your training through Summer holidays. Luckily, a little extra planning can set yourself up for success, no matter how many planes, trains, automobiles, braais and beach days are in your near future. 

Here’s how to plan ahead, so running on vacation is possible while still having a good time.

DO YOUR RESEARCH
Know ahead of time, before you go what will the weather be like (is it going to be hot and humid, or warm and dry, or are you heading into a summer rainfall region), and what running gear do you need to bring in order to be comfortable? What running routes are popular around your destination? Pack your running essentials and search online for locals' favourite running routes at your destination. Smartphone apps can also point you in the right direction, but be sure to ask a knowledgable local for advice or connect with a local running club on the safest and most scenic routes.

GET UP EARLY
Of course we’d all like to sleep in on holiday but, if you also want to fit in a run without disrupting families plans, set that alarm. Invariably (especially on the South African coastline), you will have the best part of the day - weather-wise - for your run.

TRAIN WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE IT
The above being said, don't add stress to your holiday by 'forcing' yourself to run. Your training load is bound to be reduced. Make peace with this – you’re on holiday and the break is needed emotionally, mentally and physically.  If you feel the urge to run, then train - go running because you love running.

CROSS TRAIN
Fit in a workout where you might not have expected it. Think of touch rugby on the beach (if the beaches in your area are currently open), a long-distance stand-up paddleboard mission or even a surf swim. Also read more on how to run on the beach here - if you are heading to the coast and the beaches in your area are open. 

SEEK THE AMENITIES
As with the outdoor cross training, the 'off season' is a great time to add some strength training to your regular routine. Even the smallest of holiday towns and resorts have gyms nowadays. For a small fee you can easily get in a quick session.  

PLAN A SIGHTSEEING RUN
If you are traditionally a roadie, mix it up with a few trail runs on your holiday, and vice versa. Running gives you a vantage point that no tour bus or car can, you get a better understanding of a neighbourhood or town when you explore it by putting foot to pavement. For some inspiration. check out ASICS FrontRunner Jani du Toit's special holiday run from a few summers back, here. 

DON’T OVERDO IT
Summer and holiday can come with its excesses. Firstly be mindful of your diet and try to not overdo that (this will do your body far more damage than losing bit of overall fitness). In addition, traveling can take a toll on your health, so don’t push yourself to do too much. If you feel fatigued, dehydrated or sick, it's much better to just have a 'holiday' day. As mentioned earlier, if you need to skip a run in your training plan, know that it’s not a huge setback & in fact, many times giving your body time off to recuperate can help you become a stronger, better runner.

Enjoy!

*Image: ASICS FrontRunner Mariella Sawyer, (c) Kevin Sawyer