Share
The holiday season—a time for family, delicious food, and for some... (social) stress. How do you balance this busy period with your running schedule? My answer is simple: focus on enjoyment. Here are my tips to stay relaxed while staying active during the holidays!
Let go of your schedule, but keep moving
As a runner and Trenara fan, you probably thrive on structure. But during the holidays, it’s okay to give yourself some freedom. I, too, follow my Trenara plan less strictly during this time. Why? Because I love enjoying a good glass of wine, a long dinner, and quality time with family. And speculoos and crème au beurre. Especially speculoos and crème au beurre.
Running doesn’t have to feel like an obligation—it should just be fun.
Want to learn more about being flexible with your schedule? Check out our blog on running during the autumn slump.
Use your days off to try something new
Many people have a few extra days off during the holidays. This is the perfect time to explore new running routes or locations. These ‘out-of-town’ runs feel like stolen time, making them all the more enjoyable. Breaking away from your daily routine can bring fresh energy and perspective.
Search for a nearby nature reserve, check if there are fixed routes, or let your running watch guide you—perhaps that’s a gift tip.
Make running a moment for yourself
On days like Christmas and New Year’s, I like to lace up my shoes. Running clears my mind. These holidays feel like the start of something new, and running is part of that for me. A short 5-kilometer run can be enough.
Share the joy with friends
Running doesn’t always have to be a solo activity. Invite a friend, colleague, or family member for a relaxed run. Running together makes it more enjoyable and motivates you to get outside. And as a Limburger, I have to add: finish it off with one shot of jenever.
Enjoy in moderation
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed. This doesn’t mean you should use your runs to compensate for calories. Instead, think of running as a way to find balance. A short run can give you the energy boost you need to enjoy the festivities even more. Leave the guilt behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to follow my running schedule during the holidays?
It’s not necessary to stick rigidly to your plan. Use this time to relax and enjoy your runs without pressure. Treat your Trenara schedule as a guide, not a strict plan.
How do I stay motivated to run during Christmas?
Schedule your runs at quiet times, like early in the morning.
Explore new routes or run with friends or family. This makes it both more enjoyable and easier to stay active.
The soon-to-come Christmas Challenge in Trenara might help as well ;)
Conclusion: Running for Enjoyment
Running during the holidays doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It’s an opportunity to relax, discover new places, and most importantly, to enjoy yourself.
Use this time to let go of the pressure—in both your training and your mind. And remember: Trenara is here to guide you, whether it’s through flexible training plans or support from our community.
Want more tips or guidance? Join the Trenara community, download the app and explore our adaptive plans to make running a joy during any season.
Enjoy your holidays and your runs—in that order!
Share
