Tips for lunchtime run success

Running at lunch is an efficient way to sneak your run in without waking up super early or having to drag yourself out at the end of a long day. It breaks up the work day nicely and allows you to refresh and refocus yourself for the afternoon. The lunchtime run is a staple at Canadian Running. Here are some tips for your own lunchtime run success.

1) Plan your food

If you’re going to be spending your lunchtime running or working out, you need to think ahead about what and when you’re actually going to be eating. It isn’t fair to your employer to take an hour to workout and then take 30 minutes to purchase and eat your lunch.

Working out during the lunch hour means that you should be packing your lunch and eating at your desk afterwards. Take Sunday afternoon to think out what you’re going to pack and go grocery shopping. If your office has a fridge, take a few containers of Greek yogurt, hummus and baggies of fresh veggies and fruit to full your workout days. Those who pack their own lunch tend to eat healthier and to spend less money as well, so this is a win-win-win situation.

2) Stash your gear

For maximum efficiency your gear needs to be close by. Stash your runners and a change of clothes under your desk. Keep a hanger in the office so your work clothes don’t get wrinkled.

3) Simplify your shower

If your workplace has shower facilities, that’s fantastic. If not, you’d be surprised how clean you can get with baby wipes and a facial cleanser. Ladies, throwing your hair up in a bun or french braiding eliminates any signs of lunchtime sweat. Put it up before you head out in one of our best running hairstyles, to avoid tangles.

4) Stow your phone

Normally, we’re fans of tuning out and leaving the electronics at home while running, but if something is going on at work and you really need to be available, throw your phone in a pocket before you head out.

5) Invite a colleague

There’s a trend starting in the professional world that is hailing “sweat working” as the new networking. So, if you’ve got a client who you need to chat with and you know they run, or if you have a colleague at work who you’re collaborating with, invite them along. You never know, you may have just found a great new running buddy.