As hotels tie their laces to gear up for marathon season this fall, travelers can now take advantage of exclusive workshops and in-demand offerings at properties around the world.
At Hilton Curacao, guests can jump off the treadmill and head to the white-sand shores to prepare for race day. Imagine running over one of the highest bridges in the world 185 feet above sea level while training alongside the island’s fastest and most experienced runner, Robbert Luttikhuizen.
Starting at $249 per night, the property launched “Run in the Sun,” through which guests have access to in-room hydration menus, runner’s recovery kits, and an exclusive workshop led by Luttikhuizen on the do’s and don’ts of running in the tropics.
Check out some of his top tips for marathon training:
1. Acclimatize. It takes generally 10 to 14 days to acclimatize to hot and humid conditions. Go on some easy runs to get used to the humidity and temperature.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink enough fluids before, during, and after the race. Drink water and refill on electrolytes.
3. Dress appropriately. Wear apparel light in color, lightweight, and with vents or mesh. Consider wearing a cap – or better yet, a visor – and sunglasses to reduce heat build-up on your head.
4. Lower your expectations. Accept the fact that the race will likely be more difficult than anticipated. Start slower than planned and make getting to the finish line strong your main goal.
5. At the aid stations, take one bottle of water to drink, and another to pour over your head. If necessary, slow and/or walk at aid stations to get enough fluids. If you miss one, you will most likely lose more time in the end.
6. Don’t drink dehydrating fluids or drugs. Alcohol, antihistamines, and antidepressants can all have a dehydrating effect.
7. Don’t use salt tablets. The use of salt tablets is comparable to drinking sea water when you are thirsty and only worsens the problem. Drink plenty of fluids to replace the loss of salts from sweating.
8. Don’t ignore body signs. The first symptoms of heat exertion is the deterioration of coordination. This may result in stumbling, sweating profusely or not sweating, headaches, shivering, chills, nausea, dizziness, apathy, aggressiveness, and slow decline in consciousness. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop running and seek help at a Red Cross station along the course.
9. Don’t stay dressed in your race clothes. Although you’ll still feel warm after the race, your clothes will be damp and can cause chills making it more difficult for your body to properly cool down and lose all excessive sweat.
10. Don’t skip your warm-up. Prep your muscles for the race by performing warm-up exercises and a warm-up run before heading to the starting line.
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
