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5 ways running will save your life this holiday season

Need a break from your extended family? Go for a run.

The holidays are a notoriously busy time. Between travelling to see family, hosting guests and buying gifts, running can take a backseat to your social life. But for the avid runner, here are reasons why making time for your run will actually make your life so much better.

RELATED: The runner’s reaction to classic stressful holiday situations as told through GIFS

Going on a run is a great way to get some alone time  

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If you announce to your friends and family that you need to be by yourself, it’ll become a thing. Someone will ask if you’re alright, someone will be upset you left, basically everyone will start talking about you. But if you announce you’re going for a run, no one will think twice, because you run all the time. 

Problem solved, you get your workout in and some alone time. 

RELATED: The 7 emotional stages of winter running

Running through the holidays keeps the weight gain at bay

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Over the holidays, the cocktails, cookies and festive dinners can add up. Keeping your run relatively routine will ensure that your weight remains pretty stable, and saves you from feeling guilty come January. 

It’s a way to bond with extended family 

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Don’t get along that well with your brother-in-law, but trying to make it work? If he likes being active, consider taking him for a run. He’ll be flattered you asked, and you two will have a memory to share. 

More time spent running means less time spent shopping 

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We’re not suggesting your become the cheap family member, but the more your run, the less time you’ll have to shop. Your wallet will thank you come January. 

Keeping consistent with your training can prevent injuries

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Barring over-training, keeping consistent with your mileage will help you stay healthy. The worst thing you could do is skip your runs and jump right back into your training plan in the New Year. Trust us, your  legs know that you skipped 10 days of training. 

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