It may be the most wonderful time of the year, it’s not always so for long-distance runners. If you’re like me, you’ve probably looked at your calendar and see the two weeks before Christmas packed with work functions, last-minute gift shopping and family dinners. You’re left wondering how on earth you’re going to fit in your 60-kilometre training week for that spring road race. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are four tips to help you navigate holiday chaos while staying on track with your training.
Chase the sun
Odds are, your friends and family aren’t early risers. Take advantage of the peaceful mornings by getting your miles in at sunrise before your uncle wakes up for his coffee and pancakes. Running early in the morning not only ensures your training gets done, it also frees you up to indulge guilt-free in holiday snacks or mom’s cookies throughout the day. No one wants breakfast bacon or lunch beers sitting like a baseball in their stomach all day, while trying to find time for it to settle for family dinner.
Getting your mileage in early is also a great way to fly under the radar—and earn the title of leader of the afternoon nap.
Let everyone know your training schedule
Attending a big family Christmas gathering? Make your training plans clear. Let everyone know your priority isn’t just family time this holiday season, but hitting your weekly mileage goal. If someone asks, “Are you doing anything on Christmas Eve?” confidently respond, “Yes, I have five reps of a mile at marathon pace, progressing to half-marathon pace by the fifth rep. Thanks for asking.”
While a Christmas Day 30K long run might be a tough sell, presenting it with confidence can make all the difference. Plus, being upfront allows you to balance both training and family obligations without surprises.
Ask for running-inspired gifts
There’s no better motivation to train over the holidays than testing new gear. Add items to your Christmas list like carbon-plated racers, crew-length socks, oh, and that Gore-Tex jacket you’ve been eyeing for months. After all, you’ll need to test the gifts to ensure they’re up to par!
If anyone (and I mean anyone) gives you grief for training, flip the script and say, “You gave me this amazing running gear—I’m just making sure it works!” Compliment their thoughtful gift and watch the complaints vanish.
Turn family into runners
This might be a courageous and costly move, but maybe it’s time to consider introducing your family or friends to running during the holiday season. New shoes make a great gift, and who knows? One snowy holiday run might convert them into running enthusiasts, or at least help them understand why you wake up early for this seemingly outlandish activity.
As Jason Bateman said in Dodgeball, “It’s a bold strategy, Cotton. Let’s see if it pays off.” While this approach might be risky, it could also turn family time into training time—a win-win for everyone.
