Training During the Holidays
The holidays are usually a busy time of year. We deviate from our usual work schedules, eating habits, and social activities but for some reason we resist changing our running routine.
We don’t want to miss any workouts or runs, and feel guilty if we do. We often think about the holidays as a time we need to just “get through” but it doesn’t need to be that way - well - at least not because of running!
Less is More
Smart training involves harder phases and easier phases, so why not plan on running a little less during the holidays? By planning ahead, training load can be increased before the holidays so that an easier week is perfectly timed during the busy season. Instead of losing your training momentum, you can embrace a lighter load as part of the plan.
Adjust Your Schedule
Maybe you’re not that busy, but your running buddy is out of town, the gym has limited hours, and no one consulted you before planning the family gathering on the day of your big long run.
Be flexible. Long runs can actually be done on any day of the week! Gym sessions can be substituted with body weight training. Runs can be done solo. It’s important to focus on the training that you are actually able to get done, rather than the training that you wanted to get done.
Be Kind to Yourself
Changes in sleep schedules and eating habits are bound to steal some of your physical edge. You may not be crushing any workouts during this time, and that’s okay!
Furthermore, the holiday season can be a stressful or even sad time for many of us so it’s important to be kind to yourself even when it comes to training. Don’t expect the very best from yourself when you have a lot on your mind or on your schedule.
I’m always an advocate for training by perceived effort, and it’s especially important to focus on effort when out of your routine. Adjust your paces and volume to set yourself up for success and so that your run can be a positive part of your day.
Holiday Boot Camp
If the holidays mean more free time for you, then congratulations! You get to do a holiday boot camp! Time off work could mean the opportunity to catch up on sleep and get some extra miles in. Make sure to plan on a lighter training phase following the holiday boot camp. (Bonus: training harder means a bigger appetite to appreciate holiday meals.)
Running is a Gift
The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, peace, love and hope, but for many of us it is full of overwhelm and other unwelcome feelings. Don’t let one of the best gifts of all - the ability to RUN, become a source of frustration, stress or discouragement. Plan ahead and be flexible so that running can be a source of enjoyment and a focus of appreciation through the hustle and bustle of the season.