When it comes to training during vacation, it can be hard to force yourself to do the hard work of getting out running and working hard to stay in shape. Of course,  vacation is the time to relax and take it easy, but some of us may find our running making  backward progress as you relax on that beach, progress that you will have to recover in order to return to your peak condition.

As unpleasant as it may initially sound, training during vacation could be a uniquely beneficial thing for runners. Rather than spending a few weeks trying to return to the condition you were in before vacation, you will find that doing some training during vacation will actually benefit you.  You will also find that with the lack of everyday stressors of life; work, chores and kids activities, you will be a lot more relaxed during your runs.  Some of my best "runner's high" have been experienced while I was on vacation.  Not only will it help you enjoy your vacations more, but it will help to keep you healthy as you are taking time off and eating all that junk food =)

Here are some tips to help you in your training during vacation time:

• Take your gear with you. It takes only a small amount of luggage to fit your running shoes and workout clothes, and you can easily lug your gear around with you to ensure that you can do your exercise daily.
• Register for a local 5k just for fun.  You can find a 5k just about every weekend around the US.  Good way to start the weekend and meet some new people.
  
• Always try to make the time during your vacation. If you don't want to get up early to go running, at least do it first thing in the morning. Never let the breakfast buffet come between you and your running, as it will simply make you lazy and you will never get out to go running. If not first thing in the morning, never go to bed without running.
• You don't have to push yourself to your limits every day, but it is vital that you do at least light exercise. Even running a mile or two every day will help you stay in shape, and doing light training during vacation will help you maintain your physical condition even if you aren't making any progress. Don't worry about running as many miles or at the same speed that you do every day, but just doing the exercise will be enough to maintain good activation of those running muscles.
• Find a local running club.  Its a fantastic way to meet locals and find out about exciting things happening around town.  You can usually find one at the local running shop or go to rrca.org to find one.
  
• One of the best things about training during vacation is the fact that you can enjoy the sights and sounds of new places as you go on your run. You should thrill at being able to train in a new city or town, and you can take advantage of being out and about town to see the new sights of the place where you are vacationing.

For long distance runners, getting out of shape while on vacation can be a huge detriment to your running. It is vital that you take even a short amount of time to exercise, and training during vacation will help you to stay in good shape and stay healthy all while you are relaxing and enjoying yourself.