Christmas-time runs are some of the most enjoyable of the year – there’s something truly special about running through streets lined with twinkling lights, decorated trees, carollers singing, and maybe even some fresh, crisp snow.

But the holidays can be a hectic time and running isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Christmas. Although some of you will already be training for Spring races, for many of us it can be tricky to stick to a running schedule. Between working, socialising, and buying those last-minute gifts, plus the colder weather, it can feel impossible to keep a routine. Here at Kinisi Run Hub we’ve put together our top tips to help you stay motivated and enjoy your running over the festive period. 

1. Have a plan. Family commitments, office parties and other events mean you have to be flexible and adapt. Perhaps consider increasing the intensity of your run if you are short on time to maximise your workout.
2. Frame your runs as a treat rather than a chore. Running to a bakery for a sweet treat, or going with a friend for a coffee afterwards, makes the run feel more like a joyful activity rather than something on your To Do list. 
3. Treat your run as a form of “you” time. It can be invaluable to spend some time alone to decompress, unwind, and reflect because lets be honest Christmas is a stressful time! Running can be a form of mindfulness, with or without headphones, and can provide a welcome gap in the festivities (and a great excuse to get away from family for an hour!).
4. Ditch the targets. Sometimes, between illnesses, deadlines and other stressors, we won’t hit PBs, and that’s okay. Running is fun, it’s as good for your mind as it is for your body, and you don’t have to always hit certain numbers. Getting out of the door and moving your body brings a whole host of physical and mental benefits, and sometimes that’s enough.  
5. Vary your routes to enjoy some Christmas lights! Or theme your run around a Christmas landmark. Most towns and cities have a few large Christmas trees/light displays. Challenge yourself to run around as many as you can –you’ll soon be forgetting the cold and enjoying a festive, free, activity! 
6. Turn a festive run into a tradition. There’s only so much turkey you can eat, and board games you can play. Why not start a Christmas Eve running club with your friends or get your Aunty out on Boxing Day for a jog? It can be a lovely way to catch up with friends and family and create a little custom that will carry on for years to come.
7. Enter a festive themed race – enjoy a great day out with fancy dress competitions, seasonal medals and fun, festive atmospheres. We are sponsoring the Clevedon Boxing Day Race which starts at 11am on Friday and is a fun 4 mile run in the coastal town. Entries are available on the day and Santa hats are very much encouraged!
8. Run your local Christmas Day Parkrun – one of the biggest Parkrun events of the year. Start the day off right and fill yourself with feel-good endorphins. You can find us at our local Parkrun at Ashton Court! Find your local event here.

There’s no better feeling than a Christmas Day run so get out this festive period and make sure you enjoy an extra mince pie or two, it is Christmas after all!