While most people slow down during their holidays, I find joy in keeping my body moving—even when we’re on a cycling trip with the family. This summer, amidst scenic bike rides and cozy camping spots on our way to the Wadden Island of Ameland, I laced up my running shoes and hit the trails. Here’s how I managed to fit running into our cycling holiday, and why it added an extra layer of joy to the experience.
Why Run During a Cycling Holiday?
You might wonder: isn’t cycling enough exercise? For me, running offers something different. It’s meditative, simple, and gives me a moment of solitude. While cycling is a shared activity with my family, running is my personal reset button.
This year was the first time we went cycling with our kids, and it brought a little extra stress to the trip. Will they manage and have fun? Will they pay attention to other cyclists, cars, and obstacles? That little extra stress disappears in seconds when I go for a run.
Finding Time and Space to Run
With kids and a packed itinerary, time is precious—especially because my girlfriend and I are both preparing for a half marathon at the end of September. We’ve found a way that works for both of us, I think. We knew we each needed to go for a long run, and staying on Ameland for a longer period made that possible.
Sometimes it was just 20 minutes, but even short runs made a big difference. Whether taking it slow to recover or picking up the pace to squeeze in a few intense minutes of training, every run counted.
Exploring New Places on Foot
Running gave me a unique way to explore our surroundings. From forest paths to sandy beaches, I discovered places we wouldn’t have seen on bikes. It’s amazing how different a place feels when you’re moving through it on foot.
The Wadden Islands have been our favorite destination for years—sea, beaches, dunes, forests, and wildlife. Nature at its finest.
Tips for Running During a Cycling Trip
- Pack light but smart: One pair of running shoes and a few lightweight outfits are enough.
- Stay flexible: Don’t plan too rigidly—run when the opportunity arises.
- Hydrate and fuel well: You’re doing double duty, so listen to your body.
- Use running apps: They help track or create your routes, keep motivation high and your training on schedule.
Finding balance
Combining running with a cycling holiday might sound intense, but it’s all about balance. For me, it was a way to stay connected to myself while enjoying quality time with my family. If you love running, don’t leave it behind when you travel—bring it along and see where it takes you.
