Spring Break Training

Most runners train all winter long and put in tons of base mileage to get into great shape for the outdoor track season. Then spring break comes along and a few runners get lazy and drop training during that time. Why would you get yourself into great shape right before the season and slack off the week before the season starts? This is a question many runners must ask themselves when they decide to make plans during the break. One idea that comes to my mind is travel time. When your on the road in a car for so long, your body gets naturally tired from being sedentary. A great remedy for this is to take short stretch breaks on the drive, get out get some air, and then get back on the road. Another issue that arrives is the lack of location and specific distances when you arrive at your destination. The unfamiliarity of running in a strange location can mess with a routine. The solution is run for time. Put on your watch and run for a time. Time is your friend in strange places because you can guess pace and plan mileage accordingly.
Spring break isn't entirely negative. It causes a "break" in routine, but sometimes it is a needed break. Mentally it takes you out of training and refreshes you for the season to come. Just make sure you keep your training up while your away!