No, no. I am talking about a vacation from running. Some describe it as a "break." But to me, a "break" is the time before quitting something forever. I am not quitting running forever, I am merely on a vacation from it.
1.
a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday: - Dictionary.com
A vacation is a much better word to describe this period. Everyone needs to take a vacation from running every now and again. Over-training and burnout happen all too quickly and even quicker with extra life stress (talking about you college).
Here is why I am taking a vacation and if these sound familiar, you should take one too! We can go on vacation together!
Injury
I did a bad thing and ran two half marathons on a foot with plantar fasciitis. Initially I just thought I was sore from running on a sandy road, but the pain persisted. I probably should have started my vacation earlier after the Bismarck Marathon, but my stubborn personality had me squeeze in one more half after. Now I am taking time to heal my foot properly without undoing my rehab by going for a run. Injury and chronic soreness (probably an injury itself) take time to heal. If something hurts every morning or during/after every run, it is a good idea to take a vacation and see your doctor.
Boredom
Refusing to run on cement and in the cold left the wellness center as my only option. I was just bored of running on the treadmill. I couldn't focus on reading and even got bored watching Netflix on it. Running became a chore that I no longer wanted to do. My brain and body were rejecting it. Why force yourself to do something that you don't enjoy.
Ability to try new things
Being so bored of running, I needed to find another form of exercise; anyone close to me knows how I get when I don't get some cardio. With a vacation from running, I feel like I have the freedom to do other workouts without worrying about being too sore to run. The wellness center on campus has so many group exercise classes and I have only tried spin - that's sad. Now I can try whatever I want!
Notice that new badge to the right? Yeah that's right. Your rural running girl is now a Sweat Pink Ambassador. I already feel so welcomed into the community and I can't wait to network more!
I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Mine was unexpectedly really great. I spent Friday night with my girl Tate. We carved pumpkins. I love her.
I spent Saturday and Sunday with my brother, Luke, and sister-in-law, Amanda. They were in town for Nitro Circus. I missed them. It was good to just hang out with them.
Sunday night I had supper with my Aunt and Uncle on their way back from the Cities. I missed them too.
I started this week with a very full heart. I am excited to go home this weekend and see the rest of my family!
What do you do on your vacation from running or working out?
How do you switch up your routine to avoid injury and burnout?
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