In honor of the Louisiana Marathon this weekend, here's a fun little comparison of leisure trips using running lingo:
Fun Run ~ Day trip.
A fun run is usually just a mile or so -- just enough to involve a little activity without a lot of training. Like a fun run is short and sweet, a day trip is usually within an hour or two of home (or from your hotel, if on a Curated Staycation!). The activities are typically focused, often with one primary goal in mind. You'll be back home in time to sleep in your own (hotel) bed!
5K ~ Long weekend away.
A 5K requires a bit of preparation for those without an active running practice. Likewise, at least casual preparation is needed for a weekend away. Travel time is usually less than four hours -- whether driving or flying. A weekend trip will give you enough time for a curated selection of activities in your destination ... or time to rest and enjoy a gorgeous view!
10K ~ One full week!
Now you need to think ahead. Just like runners build up to a 10K, travelers might need to work their way up to a full week away! A week is long enough to fly to across the country (or even to another country!) or to drive to a national park (or maybe even Disney World!). Depending on where you are going and your mode of travel, you might need to book lodging and transportation in advance. Carefully planning your time will allow you to maximize your week of experiences in your destination. You'll likely even have time for a day trip or two from your primary destination!
Half Marathon ~ One to two weeks.
Pacing is a factor: people don't usually sprint for an entire half marathon. Similarly, pacing is now a factor in your leisure travel: enjoy up to two weeks away by planning a few activities in advance, building in time for rest, and being curious enough for spontaneous exploration. This bit of preparation will allow you to feel like you've really seen and done everything! This length of trip includes enough time for two to four primary destinations, plus enough time for a couple of day trips per week -- though staying in one place the entire time is also a fabulous idea (on vacation ... not in your run!).
Marathon ~ Two to four weeks.
Marathon runners have some sort of plan for how they are going to attack their 26.2 miles on the ground. Pacing is becoming increasingly important for this distance. It's the same with a vacation lasting up to four weeks! Plan your route, plan your primary activities, and leave time for spontaneous discoveries. Since you are likely to have a little more flexibility, a longer trip is great for soliciting on-the-go travel advice from locals you meet along the way.
Ultra Marathon ~ Longer than one month!
This distance is something beyond what most of us can imagine -- and just as not many people will ever run an ultra, not many people will ever vacation for longer than a month. An ultra -- whether it's a marathon or a leisure trip -- is a true test of endurance. If you decide to vacation for a month or longer, pacing is critical: don't overdo it too early or too often ... or you'll wear out too soon!
Which is your favorite kind of run ... errrr, trip?
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