Running on the Beach Again!

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So happy to be running on the beach again. My recent holiday in Belek, Turkey, provided the rare opportunity for an invigorating run on the beach. Belek is a beautiful coastal town located in the Antalya Province of southwestern Turkey.

There is something about running on the beach that feels so special. Perhaps it is the sound of the waves, the fresh sea air, or the beautiful and naturally refreshing environment that make it so incredibly motivating, enjoyable and addictive!

Although the beach had too many pebbles for barefoot running, it was still a delightful experience.

This was my second time vacationing in Belek, and both times I stayed on Kadriye Beach. During my first visit, I stayed at TUI Magic Life Masmavi and on the second visit, at TUI Magic Life Belek. The accommodations, quality of food and variety of activities at both these hotels were outstanding and I wouldn't hesitate to come back to either of them!

Initially, I didn't think running on Kadriye beach was possible as it has a mix of sand and pebbles, but during low tide, the conditions are just right.

Enjoying Running on the Beach Again!

The distance between these two hotels is approximately 4km, and that is the stretch of beach where I thoroughly enjoyed an 'out and back' run.

As mentioned, it is only during low tide that running on the beach is doable here, but there are other options for running outside the resorts. The roads and streets in this area are often busy, but they are fairly wide with sidewalks/pavements or wide shoulders providing an easy option to run and explore the areas outside the resort.

Hot Summers!

My first holiday in Belek was in July 2023 and it was extremely hot. Most days were above 40^oC. I ran early in the morning when it was slightly cooler, but it was still very hot and uncomfortable. I supplemented my runs with deep water running. Fortunately, I packed my aqua jogger belt. It really was a life saver to me on this very hot holiday.

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We were staying at TUI Magic Life Masmavi, and the deep end of the pool was perfect for deep water running. The sea was calm and cooler than the pool, so I could also use my aqua jogger belt in the sea. Water running provided a very refreshing break from the heat and a terrific opportunity to work out and enjoy this alternative and fun way to run!

It was so hot here that it was painful to walk barefoot on the sand. I had to wear flip flops until I was very near the sea where the sand was wet and cooler!

While I'm not a strong swimmer, I absolutely love deep water running. For me, it is so much more fun than swimming (or trying to swim) 😀.

My second time vacationing in Belek was in October of this year. The temperature this time was so much more comfortable for running. I often didn't start running until 8:30 am and got back just in time for breakfast 😊

A road run that I often did was from the TUI Magic Life Belek resort to the roundabout to join the main street. Then, turning right at the roundabout to head towards the famous Land of the Legends and the Kadriye Town Center as shown below.

The Land of Legends is the largest theme park in Turkey. It has an amusement park, a water park, a shopping mall, numerous restaurants, and a hotel.

The Kadriye Town Center, only 10 minutes drive, is worth checking out for some great deals on brand names (possibly fake but reasonable quality and price).

The Land of the Legends

Taxi's and Uber operate here, but there is also a mini bus service that includes stops to both these attractions. It runs every 30 minutes from a number of hotels in this area for the small fee of €1 per person.

Antalya Hash House Harriers

Are you familiar with the Hash House Harriers? There is a HHH chapter in this area known as the Antalya Hash House Harriers. I would have loved to join them for a run, but unfortunately, there wasn't one scheduled while I was in the area.

If you ever visit Belek, be sure to bring your running shoes and explore this beautiful area. You won't be disappointed.

And if you go during the summer, be sure to pack an aqua jogger belt so you can enjoy running even when it's scorching hot!

Read more about deep water running and all its benefits!

Please share any comments/questions in the Comments below.

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