What I learned from my first runcation at the Lululemon SeaWheeze Half-Marathon – Canada.com

By Elise Visentin

We can all agree there are few downsides to going on vacation: It’s a chance to decompress and escape the day-to-day grind of the “real world.” Unfortunately, travel can be tough on our body and diet as we escape routine and indulge in different cultures and cuisines. Have you ever come back from a trip feeling the need to hit the gym ASAP?

Here’s how you can avoid feeling that way: plan a “runcation.”

As the name suggests, a “runcation” is a trip that combines travelling and running. My first runcation was just a few weeks ago, when I ran the lululemon SeaWheeze half-marathon in Vancouver. My biggest takeaway from this experience is that preparation is key.

Planning a runcation is vastly different than any other trip in terms of packing and booking travel dates/accommodations. Whether you’re competing in a race or participating in a fun run, there’s a ton you’ll need to organize ahead of time. Luckily, this list will help you plan (and enjoy) your runcation.

Tip 1: Pick a race that suits your personality

With the creation of unique races around the world, there is a race out there for everyone. Take the time to research a unique race that interests you and suits your personality. With all the events leading up to the race, a post-race brunch and a yoga/music festival at night, Seawheeze was calling my name. Maybe you prefer a trail race, or a themed fun run. Everyone has different interests, so be sure to choose a race that meshes with the kind of running community and environment you enjoy.

Tip 2: Arrive early

Plan your travel dates around the day of the race – arriving a few days earlier is always better. The last thing you want to do is train for a race and encounter flight delays or jet lag when arriving the night before. Give yourself lots of time to adjust to any time differences and relax before the race. If time permits, you can use this opportunity to explore the area and determine which neighbourhoods you want to see. Having the ability to continue following my running schedule while familiarizing myself with the city was my favourite part about arriving early in Vancouver.

Tip 3: Stay in accommodations close to the starting line

Regardless of the distance of your race, book accommodations as close to the starting line as possible. This is especially important if you do not have access to a car. You don’t want to worry about getting to the race and risk being late because public transit is not reliable or taxis don’t show up. (Side note: Uber can’t come soon enough to Vancouver). In addition, the closer you stay to the starting line, the fewer kilometres you add to your mileage by walking or running to the race.

Tip 4: Pack smart

If you are travelling by plane, wear your running shoes on the flight or bring them in your carry-on. This guarantees your prized racing flats will reach your final destination and avoids the headache of buying new ones if your luggage gets lost. Additionally, I’d suggest bringing a small foam roller or lacrosse ball in your carry-on. Not only can this be used during a flight to ensure muscles don’t cramp up (i.e. putting the ball under your hamstrings when seated), but it can also be used to relieve muscle tension before and after the race.

Tip 5: Take time to recover at the finish line

After crossing the finish line, most races offer a recovery station with professionals who can treat you on the spot and I recommend taking full advantage of this. SeaWheeze did a great job with a self-serve foam rolling station as well as healthcare professionals to treat runners. Furthermore, if you are travelling with an injury, or you know one usually flares up post-race, research treatment in your travel destination. This helps bridge the gap between the race and getting home to see your regular healthcare professional.

Travelling is fun, but we all know how tough it can be on our bodies. Incorporating physical activity into your vacation – or your runcation – helps maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, even away from home. You can enjoy the benefits of a relaxing vacation while also embarking on an exciting adventure, exploring a different area, AND get a shiny medal to prove it.

So, what are you waiting for? Escape the grind and unwind: Start researching races around the world and soon enough you’ll be booking your runcation. Happy running!