Many traveling consultants struggle with trying to balance their fitness goals with work schedules. Achieving physical fitness goals can sometimes be just as important as earning a professional certification or promotion. Many consultants train for a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon while they are on the road. Here are a few tips to stay on track:
1) Connect with the local running store – If you’re going to be in a particular city for an extended period of time the local running store will be a key resource in getting connected to the local running community. They’ll be able to direct you to the most popular (and safest) routes to run, when training groups meet, and have additional equipment you may need.
2) Run at the same time each day – Scheduling a time to run is the best way to make sure that you stick to the schedule and that the demands of the day don’t impact your training.
3) Leverage technology – Apps like Map My Run & Endomondo help measure progress and keep runners aware of their goals, improvements, and training plans. Posting your run to social media platforms can also help keep you accountable to your peers.
4) Pack a backup – Do you have a favorite pair or running socks, shorts, or other apparel that you can’t run without? Make sure to bring a backup just in case something gets misplaced.
Any additional tips you think should be included on the list? Let us know in the comment section below!
Be flexible. If running nearby is not advisable or can’t be fit into a tightly booked schedule, make use of the hotel gym. Schedule strength training days for travel days. It’s often easier to get in a quick stop at the gym than it is to plan a long run in unfamiliar territory.