Running on holiday!

[Jogger84]

A bit of a random question but I'm going on holiday to Thailand for 3 weeks. As it's quite a long holiday I still want to continue running but I'm scared about running in the heat. I'll be on Week 8 so much longer runs. Has anyone got any tips? Also any tips on running on the beach will be gladly appreciated.

[Paul0 Graduate]

Get up early if you are going to run when its quieter and not as hot and try to find a route that is in the shade. Dont forget to keep hydrated drink more water than you would in UK. I ran i Malaysia for 10 days following this.

[Jogger84 in reply to Paul0]

Thank you, I think getting up early will be a good start and hopefully with it being brighter I might be more motivated to drag myself out of bed. Glad to know you've ran on holiday and survived to tell the tale! Fingers crossed I will too as I'm just getting into the swing of doing the longer runs.

[slowone]

Take a water bottle with you. You don't want to have to depend on a public tap.

[Jogger84 in reply to slowone]

Yes that's true especially that it's not recommended to drink tap water in Thailand so I will pack my bottle so I can fill it up before my run

[Ajay99 Graduate]

I'm no expert but I do know it makes a big difference whether you run on hard packed sand or soft sand - hard packed its about the same as on a trail but soft is killing on the legs. Depending whereabouts you are the pavements in towns can be quite challenging to navigate as there are lots of drains and high steps and just holes in the ground meaning you have to look down all the time - and the roads are full of tuk tuks. Look out for other runners - there will be many - and go where they go. And yes, early morning is best!

[Jogger84 in reply to Ajay99]

Ok thank you, I had visions of myself jogging on the beach but hearing how running on soft sand might be straining, I think I'm going to give it miss as I have problems with my knees so my plan is find a nice path.

[LookNannyruns Graduate]

I recently ran whilst away, and found that I had to run much earlier in the day or as the sun was going down - the temperature and humidity were not as high as you are going to find I would think slowing down even more , and staying hydrated would be goood until you acclimatise.

Beach running is harder than I thought it would be even on the compacted wet sand. I mixed it up with some harder surface running as I found that the inconsistency of the sand put more strain on ankles and legs.

I loved it though and came back with stronger and browner legs!

I hope you have a fantastic time and enjoy your running

[Jogger84 in reply to LookNannyruns]

Thank you that is great advice and thanks for the heads up about the sand. I was thinking if I ran closer to the sea that it might be easier but maybe I'll have to see if there's a path or road nearby to mix it up.

[Nuttyberks4165 Graduate]

Have you considered using a treadmill in an air conditioned hotel gym. Less chance of dehydration.

[Jogger84 in reply to Nuttyberks4165]

I prefer to run outside but maybe if I do and it is too hot then I might have to take this option. Thank you

[Ajay99 Graduate]

Actually the sand will be easier on your knees - but your calves will get a workout! Try it, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Have a fantastic time!

[Jogger84 in reply to Ajay99]

Thank you. I will give it a go and see how I get on.