Between holiday shopping and family gatherings, many runners find that the hectic pace of December allows their running routine to get lost in the shuffle. However, making time to run during the holiday season is fully within the realm of attainment, and can even help runners manage the frenzied stress of the holiday season.
Penciling In Runs Between Holiday Parties
As the holiday season approaches, it may seem tempting to prioritize other events above running, such as buying gifts, attending holiday parties and seeing family. Though these things are important, runners can treat their routine with just as much value by scheduling runs into their planners, as they would a party or a family gathering. About.com’s Christine Luff (“Keep Running During the Holiday Season,” November 13, 2008) recommends that runners look at the week ahead and decide when they can fit in their runs. Writing these runs down like any other appointment will ensure that they’re completed.
Staying Flexible Through The Holidays
While penciling in exercise is important, it is also essential that runners be flexible. For those accustomed to logging many miles, a new perspective may be needed to ensure that runs are still prioritized, though they may not be as long or arduous as usual. According to Matt Fitzgerald of Runner’s World (“Survive the Holidays,” October 31, 2006), what’s important is that runners get some form of exercise, even if their runs are short and easy. These fitness breaks, even if small, can help runners stay fit and relaxed through the hectic holidays.
Braving The Cold To Run
Some runners may use the cold as an excuse as well, and may put their running routine on hiatus through the holidays until the weather warms up. However, jogging outdoors during the holiday season can be invigorating and even fun, especially if runners take advantage of the many holiday races offered throughout the country. Luff recommends that runners simply find a local race, bundle up in proper attire to protect against the cold, and even enlist other family members to join in the fun. Running together is a nice way to enjoy the holidays, all while staying fit and combating holiday stress.
Running may be a difficult pastime to maintain through the frantic pace of the holiday season, but with planning and flexibility, runners can easily maintain their routines straight into the new year. Sustaining a running routine can also keep runners fit through the holiday season, and can help them battle stress as well, enjoying the holidays to their fullest.
 |
