What to think about when running at the cottage

Canadian runners who are getting ready to celebrate the Victoria Day long weekend are going to be cottage country bound over the next few days as they kick off the summer. As the BBQs get fired up and beer bottle caps pop off, it’s easy for runners to get a little lazy. But forest trails and cottage country roads are the perfect change-up to a runner’s routine. And they have plenty to offer, especially for city-dwelling runners. Whether you’re looking for reasons to actually hit the trail, or you’re looking for tips on what to watch for while running this weekend, we’ve got you covered. Here’s some things to keep in mind while cruising through cottage country this weekend:

1. Don’t depend on long weekend drivers

You’re away from home and drivers are a little different in cottage country. Don’t depend on other people with this one. If you’re running on country roads, be responsible for your safety. This might be a good time to go music-free and be especially careful when running on winding roads with sharp corners. Running at night time might be something to avoid. These roads aren’t as well lit and more people are likely to drive after a couple beers. Keep to spots where you are the most visible to drivers.

2. Open country roads? Put a water bottle on your route

Anyone who has experienced running on open country roads knows that at times, it can be quite grueling. You feel like you’re baking on that long run and keep an eye out for any spot of shade. If this is your running situation this weekend, make it easier on yourself by hiding a water bottle at the halfway point. You’ll feel so much better getting a chance to stop for an ice-cold drink to rejuvenate yourself before heading home.

3. Get a ride to the scenic roads and run home

Sometimes the best parts of the run are a little far out. If your cottage or cabin is in the middle of town, get a friend or family member to drive you to the quiet trail that’s best for running. They drop you off and your job is to run home and enjoy the scenery as you go.

4. Reward yourself with a post-run patio beer

There’s nothing like the post-run beer on the long weekend. When you get back from your run, you’ll have family and friends to join you on the patio. You’ll also feel like you earned it. Down your favourite ale and enjoy the weekend knowing that you just put in the work.

5. Discover new routes

Getting away from home is always rewarding because you get to discover new running routes rather than the same old ones by your house. This might be a good time to leave the watch behind and just appreciate getting to chance to discover hiking paths with stellar lookouts or forest trails where you get to immerse yourself in nature for once.

6. Jump off the dock for an ice-cold cool down

Depending on where you’re staying this weekend, the lake may be a little too frigid for a post-run dip. That’s not the case for everyone though especially if your property is on a smaller lake. One of the best parts of cottage running is that runners get to finish their run by sprinting off the dock and making a big splash.

7. Prepare for heat!

That means load on the sunscreen and head out with a hat. Make sure you’re hydrated before the run as well. Nothing ruins a run more than suffering from a dry, pasty mouth and feeling your skin fry before you’ve even made it anywhere near home.

8. Make it a social run

You’re already relaxing at the cottage for the weekend. If you’re procrastinating on heading out for your run because you’d rather revel in the festive summer vibes, just make it a social run instead. There’s going to be a few willing to get active on the weekend. Convince them to come with you. It can be a great time to catch up and it doesn’t have to be a fast one.