Don't Forget to Pack Your Shoes

It's that time of year to start planning the family get away.  Spring break is just around the corner and summer follows not long after.  Wherever you decide to spend your vacation, don't forget to pack running shoes.  Seasoned runners don't need the reminder--we never go anywhere without the necessary gear--but those of you that are new to the game might need a little nudge.  Maybe you're thinking, "I'm on vacation, for crying out loud.  I'm going to sit by the pool and relax, not strap on my shoes and sweat."  Look at it this way--your heart never takes a vacation (thank goodness), so treat it right and get some exercise before you grab an umbrella drink and head for the lounge chair on the beach.

With the price of baggage fees, a majority of flyers are opting for carry-on luggage only.  I'll be the first  to admit that running shoes take up A LOT of space in a small carry-on bag.  My solution?  Try tying your shoes to the outside of your carry-on.  Although I haven't tried it, I can't imagine TSA objecting to a pair of shoes.  Everyone has to take there's off anyway.  How would anyone know there's an extra pair in the bin?  Once you get on the plane, it should be pretty easy to find room for a pair of shoes in the overhead compartments.  The trick will be to remember them when you deplane.

Likewise, with space at a premium, you barely have enough room for the clothes you need, let alone clothes to workout in.  With a little effort, you can get by indefinitely with just one pair of shorts, one shirt and one pair of socks.  If you stick with synthetic fabric, throw your sweaty gear in the sink, mix with some soap or shampoo, wring out in a towel, hang items individually and they'll be dried and fresh, ready to go the next day.  A cotton t-shirt may not dry in time.

Get up a little early and get that workout in before the festivities start--it's fun to run in new surroundings.  You'll feel so much better the rest of the day while you enjoy your vacation destination.

LACE UP and say A-LO-HA!