Adding Running to My Routine
A Runner's Guide to Staying Active on the Road
As a frequent traveler, I've always been passionate about staying active. Cycling has been my go-to form of exercise for years - outdoors on my Rose gravel bike in summer and indoors with Zwift in winter. However, I realized that cycling wasn't always practical when I was on the road. That's when I decided to add running to my routine.
The Benefits of Running While Traveling
Running has proven to be a fantastic way to stay fit while traveling for work. It's convenient, effective, and offers numerous benefits. Not only does it help me maintain my physical health, but it also boosts my mental well-being - plus you get sightseeing for free on top!
I've had the opportunity to run in various cities: Madrid, Hamburg, Cologne, Berlin, Tallinn, Riga, Nice to name a few. Each run has been a unique experience, allowing me to connect with the local culture and appreciate the beauty of different landscapes. I typically run early in the mornings, so nothing can get into the way during the day.
The Role of Technology
To enhance my running experience, I invested in a Garmin Forerunner 165 sports watch. This device has been invaluable in tracking my runs, monitoring my heart rate, and analyzing my performance. It helps me set goals, stay motivated, and push myself to improve.
In addition to my Garmin watch, I've found that using Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones significantly enhances my runs. These bone-conducting headphones allow me to listen to music or podcasts without blocking out the sounds of the surrounding environment. This feature is particularly useful when running in urban areas or on trails.
A Sustainable Approach to Running
While running is a fantastic way to stay fit, it's important to listen to your body and avoid overtraining. I probably had those phases of overtraining… by pacing myself and incorporating rest days (low effort days, not ‘nothing’ days… and yes, sauna counts, too) into my routine, I've been able to maintain a sustainable running practice.
As I look to the future, I'm excited to continue exploring new running routes and challenging myself to reach new goals. Whether I'm running along a scenic coastline or through a bustling city, I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience the world on foot.
What are your thoughts?
I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Have you ever incorporated running into your travels? What are your favorite running destinations or tips for staying motivated on the road?
Also, what are your favorite running gadgets or apps? How have they helped you improve your running experience?
Finally, what are your running goals for the future? Are there any specific races or challenges you're training for?
Let's connect and inspire each other to keep running strong!