While downtime is okay this month, keeping a routine is essential.
My first tip for December: Stay consistent
You lose more than fitness when you fall off a running routine. Muscles, joints, and tendons forget how running feels.
As a Physical Therapist, I would call it a “softening” of these areas. While that’s not a technical term, it gives you an idea of what’s happening to your body.
At a minimum, I recommend running thirty minutes three times weekly to keep your body in tune with running. It can also save you mentally through the holidays (😂😂).
Second tip:
You shouldn’t feel like you need to “force” running or “find the time.” Keep runs relaxed and low-pressure. Avoid running comfortably hard (or any speed work, for that matter).
Use December runs as a time to reflect. It can be relaxing to reconnect with running.
How it helps come January:
When runners fall out of routine in December, I find one of two things happen:
- Runners struggle to get going
- Runners shock their bodies after a month off — resulting in injury
If you stay consistent and avoid running too hard, you’ll be much better after the holidays.
Also, if you need help setting a routine, I encourage you to check out RunSmart Reset!
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