I am currently sitting in a hotel room, overlooking the Victoria Harbour of the Kowloon district of Hong Kong.  I’m the physiotherapist for the Canadian Men’s 7’s Rugby team and we’re here for a tournament.  It’s 27 degrees, humid, very hazy (read: smoggy) and a thunder shower just rolled in.   We’re staying right in the heart of downtown as well.  This is not a small city.  Nor a quiet one. When we arrived at 10pm Monday night the streets were as busy as downtown Vancouver is on a Saturday night! How on earth am I going to be able to run in these conditions??

Have you found yourself away from home for business and found multiple excuses not to run?

Thankfully, jet lag had me up bright and early this morning and despite thinking that laying in bed for a couple more hours would be worthwhile, I managed to get myself up, running clothes on, and made my way down to the “Fitness First” gym.  I loathe running on a treadmill.  But I did it.  I persevered and put in my time while listening to the morning news and watching the cruise ships unload in the harbour.  Typically when I’m away travelling with sports teams like this, my morning run is my only escape from the team for the day. And with three buffet meals a day to be eaten, if I don’t run I’d be sure to gain 10 lbs easily!!  I usually like to use this time to explore the new city that we’re in, and get a feel for where I’m at (and where I’d like to go back to visit later). Unfortunately, weather conditions, busy crowded streets, and unfamiliar areas can all be reasons to get stuck on a treadmill. You just have to make the most of it.

Don’t let business or holidays get in the way of your training.  Keep up the workouts the best you can and you’ll feel better for it when you get home.  It’s easy to fall off the wagon just because you’re away and because of all those excuses above.  Running shoes and shorts travel with me wherever I go!

Keep up the great work!

Timberly George BScPT BScKin

Registered Sport Physiotherapist

City Sports & Physiotherapy Clinics