Make time for even a few kilometres this festive season.
Life can get in the way of running at any time of the year, but the festive season is especially challenging. Whether you’re hosting parties and visitors from out of town or just attending get-togethers and travelling, a busy social calendar leaves less time for logging kilometres. If you’re struggling, make your mantra “something is better than nothing”, and try these tactics for keeping a routine intact.
PLAN AHEAD
If you look at your schedule, you can probably pinpoint windows during which you’re least likely to have other obligations usurp your running time. For many people, that’s first thing in the morning. If it’s before the sun rises, plan to run in a safe, well-lit area or hit the treadmill.
REFRAME
Think of your run not as an item on your to-do list, but as an activity that will de-stress you. Even a short run can improve your attitude and prepare you to tackle a busy day. You have to take care of yourself before you’re fully able to take care of others, and exercise is a great means of self-care.
GO FOR FIVE
Struggling with motivation? Tell yourself that you only
need to run for five minutes. Once you’re dressed and out there, you may want to go longer. If not, you can run five and head home – it still beats doing nothing.
TRY A WALK
If running didn’t require changing and showering, it would be more time efficient. You can get around both those steps by walking, and you can also include friends and family members who might not be up for a run. Walking by itself doesn’t deliver all the benefits run-walking does, but it helps you maintain some fitness when you’re crunched for time.
You Asked Me
Jeff answers your questions.
How much must I run to avoid starting from scratch in 2017?
Ten to 15 minutes three times a week will keep your body adapted to the movement of running, though doing less than usual will cost you fitness. If you’re not going to meet your quota, don’t let it become a slippery slope – every day presents a fresh opportunity to get in a kilometre or two.
Set your alarm 30 to 45 minutes early and get out the door before others arise. This way, you don’t have to sacrifice your run or time with your family. Put out your clothes and shoes the night before to make the transition out of bed as smooth as possible.
