Combining a family vacation with a personal fitness goal might seem like a daunting task, but it’s entirely achievable and incredibly rewarding. I recently embarked on such an adventure, participating in a 10K race at Walt Disney World while also enjoying a magical family trip. This experience taught me valuable lessons about balancing fitness, family time, and fun, all within the enchanting setting of the Magic Kingdom.
Planning the Magic Mile: Training and Preparation
The key to successfully integrating a race into a vacation is preparation. I knew I needed a structured approach to training to ensure I was ready for the 10K without compromising our family vacation time. Here are some steps I took:
- Time Management: I incorporated my training into our daily schedule, often going for runs early in the morning before the rest of the family was up. This way, I got my workout in without cutting into our park time. It is suggested to train for a 15 minute per mile pace to allow time for restroom breaks, photo opportunities, and other diversions on the course.
- Structured Training Plan: Following a specific training plan is essential to prepare for a 10K race. Experts generally recommend about 8 weeks of training for a 10K, assuming some prior running experience. Plans usually start with building a base of fitness, then adding longer runs and speed work, and finally tapering before the race. There are many training plans available, including options from Strava, and Hal Higdon. These plans often incorporate a mix of easy runs, tempo runs, and interval training.
- Family Involvement: I also tried to involve my family in my fitness efforts. We took walks together around our resort and even did some fun fitness activities offered at Disney properties. Disney’s All-Star Resorts offer wellness scavenger hunts, and the Art of Animation Resort has family fitness classes.
Race Day: A Magical Run
Participating in a runDisney event is an experience unlike any other. The atmosphere is electric, with Disney characters cheering you on along the course and fellow runners dressed in creative costumes.
The Course
The Walt Disney World 10K is a 6.2-mile race through the resort. The course usually starts and ends in the Epcot parking lot. It winds through the roads outside of Epcot before circling World Showcase, the Crescent Lake resorts, or Hollywood Studios. runDisney races take place before the parks open to the public, allowing participants to experience the magic of Disney in a unique way.
The Atmosphere
The energy and atmosphere are a big part of what makes runDisney races so special. The races include entertainment, such as character meet-and-greets, movie clips, and music, making the run fun and engaging. Be sure to snag photos with the characters, which are available for purchase after the event.
The Challenges
Even with proper training, a race can present challenges. I learned a few key things on the day:
- Early Start: Be prepared for an early start; many races begin at 5:00 AM.
- Weather: The weather in Orlando can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check the forecast and dress accordingly. It can be quite cold in the early mornings. Throwaway clothes, such as gloves and sweatpants, can be good to wear while waiting in the corrals before the race.
- Crowds: Be aware that there will be many runners and the lines for character photos can get long. The key is to either take photos early or, if you are a fast runner, the lines usually disappear after the 10k mark.
Healthy Eating at the Happiest Place on Earth
Maintaining a healthy diet while at Disney World can be challenging but not impossible. It is important to be aware of what you eat while on vacation, to ensure you meet your fitness goals. Here are some helpful strategies and options I discovered during my trip:
Smart Choices
- Fresh Options: Each park has fresh fruit and vegetable stands. Locations such as Prince Eric’s Village Market, Liberty Square Market, Anaheim Produce, The Land Cart and Sunshine Seasons and Harambe Fruit Market all have healthy options.
- Restaurant Research: I looked up menus ahead of time and identified restaurants with healthy options. Sunshine Seasons, Garden Grill, Satu’li Canteen, and Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe all offer healthy and nutritious meals.
- Water is Key: I made sure to stay hydrated throughout the day, which is especially important when running and spending time in the Florida heat.
Specific Recommendations
- Epcot: Try the Sunshine Seasons food court for fresh fruit smoothies, rotisserie chicken, a vegan flatbread, and a kale salad with quinoa and Brussel sprouts. The Garden Grill has lean meats, salads, and fresh veggies. Also consider the Tangierine Café for couscous, chicken, and hummus.
- Animal Kingdom: Visit Tusker House for a buffet with plenty of vegetarian options. The Harambe Fruit Market is great for tropical fruits. Satu’li Canteen also has good vegetarian choices.
- Hollywood Studios: You can find the Two Suns Hummus at Backlot Express and salads at the ABC Commissary.
- Magic Kingdom: Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe has rice bowls with protein options, and the Columbia Harbor House offers broccoli peppercorn salad and vegetarian chili.
Fitness Beyond the Finish Line
Even after the race, I continued to stay active during our vacation. Disney offers plenty of opportunities for fitness:
Park Exploration
- Walking: Simply walking around the parks burns a lot of calories; the average guest burns an estimated 1000 calories per day.
- Active Attractions: Some attractions like the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail offer physical challenges and movement.
- Resort Activities: Many resorts offer walking trails, fitness centers, and even pickleball courts. Disney movie-themed family fitness classes are also available.
Other Options
- Family Activities: I took advantage of the various activities offered at the resorts, such as wellness scavenger hunts and fitness classes.
- Pool Time: Swimming is a great full-body workout.
- Planned Activities: Check out options such as Disney Family Fitness Fun at Polynesian Village Resort which includes stretching, singing, and dancing.
Blending Fitness and Family Time
Ultimately, the goal was to enjoy a memorable family vacation while achieving my personal fitness goal. I learned that with careful planning, these two seemingly different objectives can complement each other. Here’s how I managed it:
- Balance: I made sure to balance my training with family activities. I didn’t want my fitness goals to take away from our time together.
- Flexibility: It was important to be flexible. Some days, our plans changed, and I had to adjust my training accordingly.
- Inclusivity: I included my family in fitness activities whenever possible. This not only helped me stay active but also encouraged healthy habits for my kids.
My Disney World 10K experience was about more than just running. It was about proving that it’s possible to pursue fitness goals without sacrificing family time and vacation fun. It was an adventure filled with magic, memories, and miles, and it’s something I’ll always cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, consider adding a bit of fitness to your next family vacation – you might just surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
