Summer in New Zealand means barbecues, beach trips, and long evenings with loved ones. But amidst all the festive cheer, it can feel like your running or exercise routine takes a back seat. Whether you're training for an event or just staying active, here’s how to keep moving while enjoying everything the season has to offer.
1. Stick to a Schedule (Morning Runs Win!)
If you’re already in the habit of running at a certain time, try to stick with it. Scheduling your runs helps you stay accountable and prevents procrastination.
I’m a big fan of morning exercise, especially in summer. You’ll beat the heat and can enjoy a cool drink in the evening, guilt-free!
2. Bring your home routine on holiday
Even when you’re away, keeping elements of your routine—like waking up at the same time or having a pre-run snack—can help signal to your body that it’s time to move.
This doesn’t mean skipping holiday fun, but a little structure can make a big difference if you’re training for an event.
3. Cross training is your best friend
Use the summer holidays to mix things up! Swimming at the beach, hiking scenic trails, or even playing frisbee at the park can count as cross-training.
If you prefer strength work, pack resistance bands—they’re lightweight and perfect for bodyweight exercises wherever you are.
4. Get some sleep!
It can be tempting to stay up late. But as with tip #2 too much disruption to your normal routine will only make you feel lethargic and unmotivated.
The odd late night is ok of course! But getting enough sleep is not just about recovering from your run or because you are getting up early to do one. It helps with stress (in-laws anyone?) and gives you the energy to do activities with your family and train.
5. What’s your why?
Relating your behaviour and decisions back to your goal can help you stay on track with your running over summer. Event and performance based goals are unfortunately going to mean a stricter adherence to your programme. General fitness goals allow for a little more leeway.
Understanding your goals and the importance you place on them will help guide you through the summer.
6. It’s ok to give yourself a break!
This last tip is more of a summary. Once you know your goals and how they fit into your life you’ll be able to come up with a plan for your summer running.
Bear in mind that this time doesn’t necessarily feel like much of a break for parents!
Organising holidays is a paid job for a reason. So it is ok to take a break and focus on rest and relaxing so that you are ready to go once your holiday is over.
Just keep in mind that you won’t be starting back at the point you left off from before the holiday. Ease back into running on your return for a few weeks. The focus is not that you lost fitness, it is that you gave your body a chance to rest so you can run further, faster and stronger in 2025!
Let’s Make 2024 Your Best Year Yet! If you need help structuring your summer running or want to crush your 2024 goals, check out my coaching programmes.
Got questions? Reach out at:
021 2589 445
Comentários