6 travel health tips for Marathon glory

Our friends at World2Cover have noticed an upsurge in the number of running travellers, including those going for Marathon glory and have come up with a few suggestions that may help such travellers enjoy both their travel experience and the run as well as staying fit and healthy for the duration of the trip. Many of these tips will also apply to travellers including a cycling or other activity experience.

…. Distance running entries have spiked over the past 15-20 years with such force that the sport has also spurred the growth of a new industry sector for running travel. Research shows it’s a niche market that has developed as many people now look for holidays that include both cultural and physical adventure. While more men enter domestic races, women often utilise a marathon as an excuse to travel. This trend is positive but it also means more individuals are at risk of a running?related injury. While most of the casualties that occur in relation to races are minor injuries like sprains and strains, this also highlights the importance of solid planning and adequate travel insurance to ensure peace of mind during your holiday. Claudio Saita, Deputy CEO and Australia's Executive Director for Tokio Marine

So, whether you are planning to run abroad or interstate….

• Plan your footwear according to the terrain you will be running on. Trail surfaces can vary, from the unsealed ‘Red Earth’ roads at the Australian Outback Marathon, to the challenging rocky terrain of the Chuckanut Mountain Marathon. Available research shows that approximately 42 per cent of all running injuries are to the knee, followed by 17 per cent to the foot or ankle, 13 per cent to the lower leg and 11 per cent to the hip or pelvis, so it’s important to invest in the right trainers.
• Check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing for both pre and post race periods. If you’re travelling to a colder climate, such as the UK for the Virgin Money London Marathon, you may need to increase your usual warmup time to help prevent injury.
• Dehydration is one of the biggest challenges runners have to overcome. This can be compounded if sitting in an air-conditioned plane for a long time prior. High humidity rates, like those often experienced at the Laguna Phuket International Marathon, can also drastically affect your fluid levels. Make sure you drink plenty of water while travelling and of course both during and after the race. **TIP – newer aircraft like the B787 have improved humidity controls which reduces dehydration.
• When researching accommodation, find out if special meals are available (e.g. low fat, vegetarian, sports) that will help support your nutritional needs. If flying, do the same with your airline and remember that you may need to adapt your diet at your destination due to a change in climate or altitude. ** If you are a fan of apartment stays, check where you can get a ready supply of the type of food you need and factor this into your choice of location.
• Gastrointestinal problems are common when travelling to foreign destinations. If you are visiting a country with unsafe tap water, such as India for the Mumbai Ultra 12 Hour Run, stick to bottled water and avoid raw or undercooked food – good advice for all travellers!
• The stress of travel and your increased training program in the lead up to race day may reduce your resistance to illness. Ask your doctor or healthcare professional for any recommended vitamins or probiotic supplements to help stave off bugs. Adjust your body clock to that of your destination as soon as possible. If you start while travelling, it helps ensure you won’t be over tired and can perform at your best on the day.

Upcoming runs include:

• 18 Apr – Boston Marathon, USA
• 24 Apr – Virgin Money London Marathon, UK
• 1 May – Chuckanut Mountain Marathon and Half Marathon, USA
• 15 May – Great Ocean Road Marathon and Half Marathon, Australia
• 4-5 Jun – Laguna Phuket International Marathon and Half Marathon, Thailand
• 4 Jun – ASICS Stockholm Marathon, Sweden
• 2 Jul – Jolster Marathon and Half Marathon, Norway
• 30 Jul – Australian Outback Marathon and Half Marathon, Australia
• 15 Aug – Mumbai Ultra 12 Hour Run, India

World2Cover offers a number of policies tailored for the non-professional runner, where they participate in a timed run on foot. Check their website, for the types of policy and terms and conditions.  All policies are underwritten by the Australian arm of global insurer, Tokio Marine.

**Disclaimer: Economy Traveller has no connection with the business mentioned and the information included should not be seen as an endorsement of the company concerned.