FinnsAway blog – nomad life and travel adventures
Outdoor adventures
running and hiking around the world
Outdoor adventures and healthy lifestyle
In this page we share our stories and guides related to sports and activities like hiking, running, mountain biking, gym and water sports. We both enjoy sporty lifestyle, so FinnsAway is roaming around the world wearing hiking boots or running shoes, and hitting the trails whenever possible. During the best running years we have jogged more than 2000 kilometers in total, including a bunch of half-marathons.
In the blog posts on this page we mostly write about hiking and occasionally share thoughts about how to stay fit while traveling. In addition, we keep tabs of all our exercises and gather monthly sports summaries.
Hopefully this page can be of inspiration for fellow travelers to include sports in the journeys! Traveling a lot should not prevent living a healthy and active life, and exploring new corners of the world can be done on foot!
In March it was time to leave East Africa behind after a wonderful trip that lasted more than six months! We would have loved to stay a bit longer, but had work-related commitments to travel to Finland for a few weeks. It was great to visit our home country and to see our loved-ones, and once again to work in Oulu Music festival in our former home town.
Sports-wise March was not a very good month. In fact, with less than 13 hours of sports, it was the worst in a very long time. There were traveling days with no exercising, and during the festival there were several days with no chance to do sports. In the beginning of the month, when still in Kenya, we went to the gym a couple of times, and in the end of the month we went cross-country skiing in Finland – more skiing will follow in April!
- 19 activities in total
- Running outside 80,6 km (12 runs)
- Treadmill running 6 km (2 runs)
- Gym 3 times
- Cross-country skiing 27,3 km (2 times)
We stayed most of February in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on work projects and exploring this bustling city a bit more. We also made a few days holiday trip to the beautiful coast of Kenya, visiting Kilifi, a small coastal town north from Mombasa.
Sports-wise February was quite an active month. We had gym membership to a quality gym in our apartment complex, so we did weight training 4-5 times a week. It was a second month in a row with way less running than we usually do, but more hours used in sports in total.
The below stats are Anne’s, Toni did longer gym sessions instead of treadmill running, but we spent the same amount of time in gym in total.
- 35 activities in total
- Running outside 14 km (2 runs)
- Treadmill running 101 km (16 runs)
- Gym 17 times
Happy and sporty New Year! In January we stayed most of the month in Nairobi in Kenya, but made a one week holiday trip to Tanzania, visiting Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. It was great to escape the busy city life and enjoy the stunning beaches of Zanzibar for a while.
Sports-wise it was an active month, even if during the holiday trip there were some days without any other sports than walking. In the beginning of the month we bought a gym membership from a quality gym in Nairobi, and have been going to the gym 5-6 times a week. This means that the running kilometers are way less than usually, but it has been great to focus on strength training for a change!
The below stats are Anne’s, Toni did longer gym sessions instead of treadmill running, but we spent the same amount of time in gym in total.
- 40 activities in total
- Running outside 19 km (3 runs)
- Treadmill running 105 km (19 runs)
- Gym 18 times
The month started in Lusaka, and in 5th of December we flew back to Nairobi in Kenya. Then we stayed most of month in the city, but made a three-day holiday trip to Naivasha area, visiting two national parks and admiring the nature of the Great Rift Valley.
Sports-wise it was quite an active month, even if we didn’t run as much as usually. During our trip to Naivasha we climbed on top of Mount Longonot volcano as a combined trail-run and trekking exercise (that caused us very sore thighs for the next days :D). In Hells Gate NP we made a safari on bicycles. In the end of the month we bought gym membership in Nairobi.
No half-marathon this month, since our luggage got lost on the way from Lusaka to Nairobi, and is still not found, so we needed to buy new running shoes and “soften them” before long runs.
- 25 activities in total
- Running and trail running 101,5 km (14 runs)
- Treadmill running 16 km (4 runs)
- Mountain biking 24,5 km
- Trekking 12
- Gym 5 times
In November we traveled from our “home base” Nairobi to Zambia, and stayed most of the month in Lusaka. We also made a short trip to the neighboring countries Botswana and Zimbabwe, and visited the world-famous Victoria Falls. It was another month of combining work and leisure in Africa, and we really love to be here and toe get to know new countries.
Sports-wise it was an okay month, but not the best really. We did run quite a lot, but didn’t reach the monthly minimum target of 150 km. There were some long traveling days when running was not possible, and due to hot and humid weather part of the runs were shorter than we usually do. However, we again managed to run one half-marathon, this time in Lusaka, Zambia. Only two exercises at gym and no body-weight training either this month, shame on us (we didn’t have gym nearby in Lusaka).
- 19 activities in total
- Running 145,7 km (17 runs)
- Gym 2 times
During the first three weeks of October we traveled in Uganda and Rwanda, and then stayed the rest of the month in Nairobi, Kenya. It was a busy month with a lot of long traveling days (we mostly used buses for also long distances, which is a VERY slow way of traveling in East Africa) and also a lot of work, but filled with new experiences in new countries.
Sports-wise it was not the best month, even if we did go running pretty much as often as we could. During the Uganda-Rwanda tour there was less time for sports (though we walked a lot when exploring new destinations), but back in Nairobi we tried to make up for it, and also ran a half-marathon on the last day of October. Total distance was 147 km, which is a bit under the minimum target..
- 19 activities in total
- Running 147 km (17 runs)
- Gym 2 times
In September our home base was in Nairobi, the busy capital city of Kenia. We worked quite a lot during the week days, and made some short weekend trips to explore the country. Highlights of the month included visits to Nairobi and Amboseli National Parks and a trip to Mombasa and Diani Beach.
Sports-wise September was an average month – we didn’t run as much as usually, since running in central Nairobi is not so easy or fun, but we did compensate running outside with running on treadmill (also one half marathon, that was boring!) and used the gym of our apartment building also for some weight-lifting. All in all 152 km of running and 10 exercises at the gym.
- 28 activities in total
- Treadmill running 127 km (15 runs)
- Running 25,4 km (3 runs)
- Gym 10 times
In August we stayed the first two weeks in Finland, visiting family and friends and focusing on a work project. In mid August it was time for new adventures abroad, and we fly via Doha (Qatar) to Nairobi in Kenya, and stayed in Nairobi the rest of the month.
Sports-wise it was a quite active month, even if during our stay in Finland we were rather busy and couldn’t run as much as we would have wanted to. In central Nairobi running outside is not so fun due to heavy traffic and fumes, but luckily there is a gym with treadmills in our apartment building. So all in all a bit over 150 km running during the month, and finally some weight training too, seven training sessions at the gym!
- 27 activities in total
- Running 66.4 km (8 runs)
- Treadmill running 84 km (12 runs)
- Gym 7 times
During the first half of July we traveled north from Alsace in France. First we drove through Germany, admiring the scenery and castles along the Rhine river and visiting Wismar in northern Germany. Then we took a ferry to Bornholm island (Denmark) and continued from there to Skåne county in southern Sweden. After a short tour in Sweden we took a ferry to Finland, where we then stayed the rest of the month.
When it comes to sports, it was an active month with quite a lot of running (altogether 177 km), but no other exercising, except for walking of course. As the half marathon of June was postponed due to some sudden back pain, we ran two half marathons in July.
- 16 activities in total
- Running 157 km (14 runs)
- Trail running 20,4 km (2 runs)
June was the second month in a row of traveling in southern Europe, on a road trip with our camper van. We started the month with a few days in Braga, Portugal, visited Peneda-Geres National Park and Ponte de Lima, before continuing further north to Galicia in Spain. We drove through Asturias and Cantabria to Basque Country, and then crossed the border to France. After visiting Limoges and Dijon, we headed to Alsace and stayed the second half of the month in the lovely old village of Gueberschwihr, house-sitting for our friends.
Sports-wise, it was another average month – we ran as often as we could (not always so easy when you are on the road) and also did a couple of short weight training exercises, but should do way more. When in Alsace, we made some trail runs up on the mountains.
- 21 activities in total
- Running 130 km (16 runs)
- Trail running 30,4 km (3 runs)
- Weight training 45 minutes (2 times)
In May we traveled in beautiful Portugal, making a road trip in the central and northern parts of the country, and also did three house-sits; one near Lisbon, one by the coast in Caldas da Rainha and one in Porto.
Sport-wise it was an average month, with quite a lot of running and trail running, but no hikes or weight training. In total we ran 180 kilometers, which is a bit more than usually. We ran the half-marathon of the month in Porto, along the Douro river and the Atlantic coast.
- 18 activities in total
- Running and trail running 180 km (18 runs)
- Quite a lot of walking with and without dogs
The month started in Finland, where we visited family members and friends first in Lapland and then in southern Finland. In mid April we flew to Alicante in Spain and traveled with buses to Malaga, to rejoin with our camper van and to continue travels and house-sitting in Spain and elsewhere in Europe.
Even if we traveled a lot, it was also quite a sporty month, with 155 km of running, and 94 km of cross-country skiing in snowy Finland. Whereas normally we only run, it’s always nice to go skiing when we visit Finland during spring time.
- 21 activities in total
- Running and trail running 155 km (17 runs)
- Cross-country skiing 94 km (4 times)
We stayed the first week of the month house-sitting in the beautiful town of Estepona in Andalusia, Spain, taking care of Eddie, a cute big doggo. Then we hopped in a plane in Malaga, as it was time for our yearly visit to Finland. The rest of the month was quite busy, as we worked for a bit over two weeks in Oulu Music Festival, basically from morning to evening.
It wasn’t the most sporty month to be honest, but we did find time to go running 16 times, including one half-marathon. Most of the runs were less than 10 km though, so we ended up running only 145 km in total, which is less than our monthly target. Let’s get back on track on April!
- 16 activities in total
- Running 145 km (16 runs)
- dog walks
Our house-sit in Andalusia continued until mid February, so we stayed put the first two weeks, focusing on work and going out for runs at least every other day. During the second half of the month we made a road trip in western parts of Andalusia, mostly exploring new destinations in the Province of Cádiz.
Sports-wise it was another average month, with in total 155 km of running and one short trek up in the mountains in El Torcal de Antequera nature park. We again ran one half-marathon, this time along the beautiful coastline around El Palmar de Vejer, a small surf village by the Atlantic. In addition to actual sports, we also walked quite a lot when getting to know new destinations.
- 16 activities in total
- Running 155 km (15 runs)
- Trekking 3,5 km (one run)
- plus walking
We rang in the new year in El Morche in Andalusia, Spain, where we had been house-sitting since early December. As this house-sit continues until mid February, we stayed put the whole month, only making some short day trips to nearby villages and nature parks.
Sports-wise it was a quite average month – we continued running at least every other day, but didn’t go to gym or do any actual weight training. One of the runs was an actual trail run up on the mountains, others were running on asphalted roads. Altogether we clocked in 167 kilometers, including one half-marathon.
- 18 activities in total
- Running 158 km (17 runs)
- Trail running 9,2 km (one run)
Articles related to sports and hiking
3-days Hike in Rila Mountains
Hiking trails and national parks in East Serbia
Hiking and camping Tour du Mont Blanc
A tiny travel guide to Phoenix, Arizona
Hiking La Malinche volcano in Mexico
Remote, beautiful Anso and Hecho Valleys
Hiking and camping in Ordesa Valley, Spain
Hiking Santa Ana Volcano in El Salvador
Cyprus: Avakas Gorge and Lara Beach
Akamas Peninsula, Cyprus
Viñales – haven for nature-lovers and hikers
Three peaks hike in Sorteny Valley, Andorra
Spain: Hiking in Montserrat
France: Hiking in Verdon Gorge
Hiking in French Alps: Chamechaude Mountain
Sofia, the historical capital of Bulgaria
Georgia: Day trips from Batumi – Mtirala National Park
Georgia: Daytrips from Batumi – Machakhela Valley
Mestia – Ushguli hike in Caucasus Mountains
New monthly cost and sport diaries
Finland: Nature and activities in Rokua
Hiking in northern Czech Republic
Hiking in Italy: Monte Chiampon
Castles and hiking trails in San Marino
Portugal: Hiking on Rota Vicentina, coastal Alentejo
The secluded but beautiful North Cyprus
Greece: Hiking in Ridomo Gorge, Peloponnese
Greece: Visiting Meteora in winter
Matka Canyon – outdoor gem next to Skopje
Hiking in Bulgaria: The Seven Lakes in Rila Mountains
Hiking in Bulgaria: Balkan Mountains in October
Hiking in Romania Sep 2017, part 2
Hiking in Romania Sep 2017, part 1
Sporty lifestyle when on the road
Hiking in Slovakia August 2017, Part 2
Bratislava and hiking in Slovakia part 1
Whitewater rafting in Koiteli, Finland
Hiking in Gauja National Park, Latvia, August 2017
COLLABORATION
WITH
In December 2022 we stayed the whole month in Spain, house-sitting for our friends in Torrox, Andalusia. After busy November, in December we had more time for sports, even though both of us had to stop running for a few days due to a flu.
During the month we ran 188 kilometres, which is a new monthly record, and reached the running target for 2022, running altogether 2022 km (yes, same number than the year, by accident). We also ran one more half-marathon, so did also reach the target of 12 half-marathons during the year, one every month.
- 21 activities in total
- Running 188 km (21 runs)
November was a busy month with a lot of traveling, from Turkey all the way to Spain by car and ferries, via Greece, Albania and Italy. Otherwise we traveled quite fast, but stayed a bit longer in Italy, exploring the beautiful Apulia region and spending time with our Finnish friends in Formia.
Sports-wise it was not the best month, quite the opposite actually, since we only ran around 140 kilometers, which is way less than usually. Luckily we still are on track with the yearly target of 2000 km. In addition to running we walked quite a lot when exploring new towns, but didn’t go to gym or anything like that.
- 15 activities in total
- Trail running and road running 140,3 km (15 runs)
- plus some walks
In October we traveled the first two weeks around Turkey, and then settled down for the rest of the month for a house-sit near Ortaca in the south-west. Our road trip took us from Istanbul to Amasra by the Black Sea, to Ankara via Safranbolu, to Göreme in amazing Cappadocia and down to the Mediterranean coast.
Sports-wise it was an active month, even if we didn’t go to gym or do any weight training. We made a new monthly running record (185 km) and when house-sitting, walked with dogs daily too. We ran the half-marathon of the month on small roads between Ortaca and Dalyan.
- 18 activities in total
- Trail running 96,9 km (9 runs)
- Road running 88,2 km (9 runs)
- dog walks
In September we started traveling again, after a long house-sit in Sofia. We headed to Rila Mountains in Bulgaria for some hiking, shortly visited Bansko in the Pirin Mountains and returned to Serbia for one more week. In the end of the month we drove through Bulgaria, via beautiful Plovdiv, to Turkey, where we settled in Istanbul for a week.
Sports-wise it was not as active month as the previous ones, since we didn’t run as much, and didn’t go to gym. On the other hand, we made a quite demanding three-days hike in Rila Mountains and walked a lot when getting to know new destinations.
- 19 activities in total
- Running and trail running 154,7 km (16 runs)
- Hiking 53 kilometers (3 days, 3000 vertical meters)
- plus walking a lot
Our long house-sit in Bulgaria continued still in August, so we stayed the whole month in Sofia. We continued running and trail running a lot, and also used the small gym that we have in the house.
All in all August was another very sporty month, and we again made a new monthly record, running a bit over 182 km. Most of the runs were around 10 km, but we again ran one half marathon, and also did some shorter runs with the dog, often combined with going to gym.
- 34 activities in total
- Running and trail running 182,3 km (22 runs)
- Strength training 12 times
- plus some dog-walks
In July our house-sit in Sofia, Bulgaria, continued, so we stayed the whole month in one location again. As we stay close to great running paths and have a small gym in the house, we had plenty of time and possibilities for doing sports. July was a very hot month, which meant that running was quite tough and sweaty, but we didn’t give up, and it was a very sporty month!
We didn’t go hiking in July, but run more than usually, altogether 182 kilometers, which is a new monthly record I think. Also once again we ran one half marathon, so have done 7 of them this year now. And we also went to gym quite often, and getting more muscle also starts to show in our figures.
- 31 activities in total
- Running and trail running 181,9 km (20 runs)
- Strength training 11 times
- plus some dog-walks
We stayed the whole month in Sofia, Bulgaria, where we are house-sitting for the whole summer. It’s a great place for outdoor enthusiasts like us, since the Vitosha mountain with wonderful hiking trails is just next to the city, and we even have a small gym in our apartment. So there are no excuses, even if the hot weather and the hilly trails and streets make running quite demanding.
During the month we ran altogether 159 km (partly longer runs and trail runs, partly short runs with dog), went to our gym 10 times and did one 11 km hike to the top of Vitosha mountain. All in all it was a sporty month, and we are on track with our 2 000 km yearly running target.
- 30 activities in total
- Running and trail running 158,6 km (19 runs)
- Hiking 1 time (11 km)
- Strength training 10 times
- plus some dog-walks
We started the month house-sitting in Budapest, then traveled around Serbia for three weeks, and in the end of the month crossed the border to Bulgaria. May was a month of traveling, but we also managed to run a lot, and all in all it was an active month (we also ate heavily to keep things balanced :D).
Altogether we ran 178 kilometers, which keeps us nicely on track towards the 2000 km yearly target. We ran the half marathon of the month in the middle of the amazing rock formations of Belogradchik in Bulgaria.
- 15 activities in total
- Trail running 120 km (10 runs)
- Running 58.5 km (5 runs)
- plus walks with and without dogs
We stayed the first three weeks of the month in Finland, vising family and friends and also doing a short house-sit for our family, taking care of dogs and chickens. In late April it was time to leave Finland behind again and continue our travels in East Europe.
Sport-wise April was a quite active month. In Finland it was still winter, and when visiting family members in Lapland we went cross-country skiing. We also reached our monthly running target again (164 km in total), and ran the half-marathon of the month in beautiful Budapest.
- 17 activities in total
- Running 146 km (13 runs)
- Trail running 17 km (2 runs)
- cross-country skiing 56 km (2 times)
- walks with dogs when house-sitting
We stayed the first week of the month in and around Barcelona in Catalonia, Spain, and the rest of the month in snowy Finland, working in Oulu Music Festival. It was a busy month with a lot of work and traveling, but we still managed to find time for sports too.
We reached our monthly minimum target of running, and also again ran one half-marathon, this time in beautiful Sitges and surroundings, near Barcelona.
- 15 activities in total
- Running 113 km (12 runs)
- Trail running 41,4 km (3 runs)
- plus walks with dogs when house-sitting
We stayed the whole February in sunny Spain – in Alicante region, in Mallorca island and in Barcelona area. It was again a nicely sporty month, with 168 kilometers of running and trail running in total. We ran the half marathon of the month in Mallorca, along the southeastern coast, admiring stunning views with deep cliffs and small sandy bays.
We also walked quite a lot during the month, mostly with dogs when doing house-sits. Regarding strength training and stretching we didn’t do much though, so need to pay more attention to that again.
- 14 activities in total
- Running 64,1 km (7 runs)
- Trail running 104 km (7 runs)
- a lot of walking too
Hello 2022! We rang in the new year in snowy Finland, before flying to southern Spain to warm our bones. For 2022 our aim is to run at minimum 150 km each month, including one half marathon (and maybe also some longer runs), and to pay attention to strength training and stretching too.
In January we clocked in 171 km of running and trail running in total, and the ran the half marathon of the month in Torrox Costa in Malaga. While in Torrox, we also did some strength training, utilizing resistance bands and body weight. We also walked quite a lot, so all in all it was a sporty month, nicely active start for the year!
- 21 activities in total
- Running 134 km (12 runs)
- Trail running 37 km (3 runs)
- Strength training 6 times
- +walking
The last month of the year was again quite sporty, with close to 180 km of running in total. We stayed most of the month in Riga in Latvia, where we also ran the half marathon of the month, and the rest in Finland. By the end of December we fulfilled the yearly target of 1800 kilometers of running and trail running, clocking in altogether 1829 km! Check out more yearly statistics in summary of 2021 post.
- 19 activities in total
- Running 130 km (11 runs)
- Trail running 48,2 km (5 runs)
- Trekking 9,5 km
We stayed the first days of the month in Poland and then a week in Latvia before driving to our home country Finland for a couple of weeks visit.
As we were on the road a lot, it wasn’t the most sporty month, but still quite active. We ran altogether a bit over 140 kilometers, which is less than our monthly target, but we’ll fix this in December. We ran the half marathon of the month in Riga this time.
- 14 activities in total
- Running 97,3 km (9 runs)
- Trail running 43 km (4 runs)
- Volleyball 1,5 h
In October we stayed mostly in Berlin, where we were house-sitting and taking care of a lovely dog. In the end of the month our journey continued to Poland, with a road trip through the central parts of the country.
It was an active month with 150 km of running and trail running, a lot of walks around Berlin mostly with the dog, and also some short strength training and stretching. We ran the half-marathon of the month in Poland – 10 half-marathons behind this year, two more to go!
- 17 activities in total
- Running 87 km (8 runs)
- Trail running 63 km (4 runs)
- Weight training 5 exercises
- A lot of walking and stairs
In early September it was time for hit the road again and begin the Season 5 of FinnsAway nomadic life. We traveled through the Baltic countries and Poland, and then settled in Berlin, Germany for a house-sit.
It was a quite sporty month, with the usual 150 km of running and trail running, including one half-marathon, this time in Berlin. We also (finally) started to pay attention to strength training, doing some short exercises mostly after running, and plan on continuing the routine. In addition we walked a lot with the dog that we are taking care of, but didn’t count those in as activities.
- 18 activities in total
- Running 111 km (10 runs)
- Trail running 39,5 km (3 runs)
- Weight training 5 exercises
- A lot of walking
In August we stayed the whole month in Finland, visiting friends and relatives. From activity point of view it was an average month, except that there was a one-week break from exercising due to being ill with a fever.
Due to the break, we didn’t manage to fulfill the monthly goal of 150 km for the first time, but on yearly level we are still on target, as we have ran a little extra on some months. As a downside, there again was no other exercise than running and some walks – we really should pay attention to strength training and body balance.
- 12 activities in total
- Running 72,8 km (7 runs)
- Trail running 62,65 km (5 runs)
In July we were in our home-country Finland, visiting family and friends around the country. Sportswise it was an average month, with the usual 150 km of running and trail running, and in addition some cycling and one match of beach volley with friends. We ran the half marathon of the month in our former hometown Oulu.
- 18 activities in total
- Running 103 km (10 runs)
- Trail running 48,8 km (5 runs)
- Beach volley 1 hour
- Cycling 40 km (2 rides)
In June we traveled through France and Germany to Finland, but also stayed over two weeks house-sitting in Alsace in the way. We worked quite a lot, so it wasn’t as active month as the previous one that we spent on the road, walking a lot in new destinations. However, we still managed to reach the monthly running goal of 150 km. We also ran one half marathon, this time in Alsace, France.
- 17 activities in total
- Running 91,7 km (8 runs)
- Trail running 58,3 km (5 runs)
- Weight training 3 times
- Cycling 18 km (1 ride)
May was a month filled with traveling, as we were on a road trip through Spain. It was an active month, since we managed to reach out monthly goal of 150 km of running, and also walked a lot when exploring new destinations. On the other hand, we didn’t go to gym or do any other weight training, or any other sports whatsoever. The monthly half-marathon was completed in the stunning Picos de Europa National Park.
- 14 activities in total
- Running 90,4 km (9 runs)
- Trail running 60,8 km (5 runs)
In April we lived the whole month in Torrox Costa, in Andalusia, Spain, and had great opportunities for running along the coastline and trail running up on the hills. We also had a small outdoor sports area almost on our doorstep, so we did some (body)weight training too. In addition to running, we made one day hike too, climbing on top of El Cielo mountain (1508 m). Quite sporty month, and again we managed to run more than the monthly target of 150 km, including one half marathon.
- 22 activities in total
- Running and trail running 160,5 km (15 runs)
- Hiking 21 km (1 hike)
- Weight training 6 times
In March we stayed almost the whole month in Velez-Rubio in Almeria, and moved back to coastal Malaga in the end of the month. In terms of sports, it was a normal month, with 150 km of running and trail running. We continued out “one half-marathon per month” challenge by running 21,1 one km along the partly mountainous trails in Velez-Rubio. In the end of the month we decided to finally start some weight training too, as there is an outdoor sports area right next to our new apartment in Torrox, so no excuses!
- 22 workouts in total
- Running 150,1 km (13 runs)
- Weight training 2 times
- Dog walks 33,4 km (7 walks)
In February we stayed in Andalusia, Spain – the first weeks in Torrox in coastal Malaga, and the in the end of the month we returned to Velez-Rubio in the mountains of Almeria province. It was quite an active month again with a bit over 150 km of running and trail running, including one half-marathon in Torrox. Still no weight workouts though, and not as many longer (dog) walks as in January.
- 18 workouts in total
- Running 150,5 km (15 runs)
- Walks 16 km (3 walks)
The new year begun in Spain, house-sitting in small Velez-Rubio in the mountains of Almeria. In mid-Jan we moved to the coast of Almeria and stayed in an Airbnb apartment.
It was again a rather sporty month, with lots of trail running and walking with Scobi the dog, and then more runs, including one half marathon, in Roquetas de Mar by the coast. We didn’t do any weight training though, which is a shame. We are well aware that we could do body weight workouts wherever we are, but still, it’s too easy to skip it when there is no gym / equipment available…
- 27 workouts in total
- (Trail) running 162 km (15 runs)
- Walks 62 km (12 walks)
In December we stayed still for a couple of weeks housesitting in France, and the rest of the month housesitting in Spain, taking care of Scobi the dog. It was another sporty month with quite a lot of running on trails and using treadmill. In Spain we don’t have a gym room in use anymore, but instead we walk here more than before, taking Scobi out for daily walks or trail runs.
During the whole year 2020 our runs and trail runs sum up to 1260 kilometers, which is more than in 2019. Maybe for 2021 the target could be 1500 km?
- 20 workouts + 9 dog walks
- (Trail) running 85 km (8 runs)
- Treadmill 27 km (6 runs)
- Weight training 6 times
- Dog walks 43 km (9 walks)
We stayed the whole November housesitting in Dordogne, France. It was a sporty month, even if we were under a Covid-19 related lockdown, that limited the duration of our runs to just 1 hour (there was a rule that people could only be outside for one hour and within one kilometer radius from their homes). From 29th of November the lockdown rules were eased to 3 hours and 20 km radius, so we celebrated that by running a half marathon :). During the month we went running altogether 12 times, and used the small gym room of the house 8 times.
- 24 workouts in total
- Trail running 124 km (12 runs)
- Treadmill 20 km (4 runs)
- Weight training 6 times
In October we were house sitting in Dordogne area in France for the whole month. As there was a small gym room with a treadmill in the house, we did much more weight training than usually. Also, we ran quite a lot inside, as the weather was very unpredictable for most of the month. Still, also 7 runs outside either along forest paths or through nearby villages. Altogether 127 km running and 12 times at gym.
- 28 workouts in total
- Running 39 km (4 runs)
- Trail running 36 km (3 runs)
- Treadmill 52 km (9 runs)
- Weight training 12 times
In the beginning of September it was time to move from Alsace in eastern France to Dordogne in south-western part of the country. We settled in a tiny village for a house sit, taking care of a charming cat.
We found some nice trails in the surrounding forests, and made some runs through the lovely neighboring villages also, including one half marathon. As there is a small gym room in the house, we were able to do some proper weight training too for a change. All in all it was an active and healthy month.
- 20 workouts in total
- Running 67 km (5 runs)
- Trail running 84 km (8 runs)
- Weight training 7 times
In August we were house sitting in France and had a two weeks sport holiday in the Alps. As we walked the famous Tour du Mont Blanc long-distance hike and also did quite many trail runs, it was a very active month.
TMB meant 8 days of walking, 140 km of trails around the Mont Blanc massif in France, Italy and Switzerland, with over 8 000 meters vertical ascent and descent, carrying all camping gear and stuff. Not the easiest hike for sure, but it was an amazing experience! Post about TMB will follow soon in the blog.
- 21 workouts in total
- Hiking 140 km (8000 m vertical)
- Running 46 km (5 runs)
- Trail running 46 km (4 runs)
- Weight training 3 times
In early July we finally hit the road again, traveling from Finland to Poland via Baltic countries, staying a few days in each capital. From Warsaw we took a bus to Colmar in Alsace, France, to go to live in the house of our friends in a nearby village.
It was quite active month, but there were also a lot of days spent on the road, when we didn’t exercise. However, we ran quite a lot, partly in the parks in the cities and partly along the trails in the countryside. In the end of the month, when we settled down in Alsace, we also started to do some weight training.
- 15 workouts in total
- Running 96 km (9 runs)
- Trail running 30 km (3 runs)
- Weight training 3 times
We stayed in Finland also the whole month of June. It was a lovely summer month with amazingly warm weather and a lot of sunshine. We stayed most of the month in Oulu, and made some nice runs along the trails and roads that follow the Oulujoki River and delta area. We also played some beach volley games with friends and went to outdoor gym a few times, but it still wasn’t especially active month. In addition to the actual sports listed below, we also rode quite a lot around the town by bike.
- 17 workouts in total
- Running 83 km (9 runs)
- Trail running 16 km (2 runs)
- Outdoor gym 3 times
- Beach volley 3 h 10 minutes
Due to travel restrictions and the global coronavirus pandemic, we stayed put in Finland in May, working and spending some time with friends. Regarding sports it was quite active month, we ran more than usually, and even went to an outdoor gym, though only a couple of times. In addition to the actual sports listed below, we also rode quite a lot around the town by bike.
- 18 workouts in total
- Running 133 km (13 runs)
- Trail running 15 km (1 run)
- Mountain biking 20 km (1 ride)
- Outdoor gym 2 times
- Beach volley 1 h 40 minutes
Due to coronavirus pandemic, we stayed the whole April in northern Finland. As there was still snow in Lapland, we managed to go cross-country skiing a couple of times, great fun! We also ran and trekked quite a lot, mostly on snowy trails, and went snowshoeing and fat biking in Rokua Geopark. Quite a lot of sports, but it still wasn’t a super active month, as we didn’t travel and explore new places, but focused mostly on working and stayed indoors in front of our laptops a lot.
- 18 workouts in total
- Running 41 km (4 runs)
- Trail running 19km (3 runs)
- Cross-country skiing 60 km (3 x 20 km)
- Trekking 29 km
- Snowshoeing 9 km (2 walks)
Fat bike ride 10 km
We will remember March 2020 as one of the weirdest months ever. COVID-19 hit hard also Europe, and we got stuck in Finland for who knows how long. We are happy to be healthy and in our home country in this situation though. When it comes to sports, March was not the most active month, but we went running and trail running every now and then, in Oulu and in Rokua National Park. We also played volleyball with our friends, and Toni played floorball a couple of times. We worked for a 1,5 weeks with Oulu Music Festival, and during that time didn’t have time for sports, but the days were busy and active.
- 11 workouts in total
- Running 53 km (5 runs)
- Trail running 14 km (2 runs)
- Volleyball 2 x 1,5 h
- Floorball 2 x 1,5 h
We stayed first 10 days of February in Puerto Peñasco, northwest Mexico, on the northern shore of Gulf of California. We ran one half marathon and shorter routes along the coastline, enjoying sunshine. Next destination was then Phonix, Arixona, where we only stayed a couple of days, but made a great trail run in South Mountain Park and Preserve, admiring the gigantic cactus trees and views over the hills and towards the city. In mid February we flew to New York for a house-sitting gig and to get to know this iconic city. We took care of two adorable dogs, and took them for walks twice a day. We also went to gym, used treadmill for running and walked a lot when sightseeing. After NY we stopped for a few days in Amsterdam, and ran in Amsterdam Forest, and in the end of the month we flew to Finland, and went running in there as well, enjoying the snowy landscapes.
- 10 workouts in total
- Running 62 km (5 runs + treadmill)
- Trail running 14,1 km (1 run)
- Gym 4 workouts
- 10 workouts
- Hiking 30 km (2 hikes)
- Running 53 km (6 runs)
- Gym 5 workouts
We were on the road the first three weeks of December, traveling in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador. The rest of the month we stayed house-sitting in Mexico City. When it comes to sports, this really wasn’t a very active month, even if we walked a lot when exploring new destinations. We both had flu symptoms when in Guatemala, and unfortunately needed to skip the planned long hike to volcanoes around Antigua. We also had a longer break of running. We made one hike in Los Naranjos by Lake Yojoa in Honduras and another to the summit of Santa Ana volcano in El Salvador, and four short runs. When in CDMX, we had a small gym in the apartment building where we stayed, and utilized it several times.
- 11 workouts
- Hiking 21 km (2 hikes)
- Running 33 km (4 runs)
- Gym 5 workouts
The first three weeks of the month we traveled in Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, and the rest of the month in Belize and Guatemala. As we were on the road a lot, we didn’t exercise as much as when staying put in one location. owever, we stopped for a bit longer time in Merida, made some nice runs there and even went to a gym a few times. Overall it was a pretty active month, as on top of the exercises listed below, we also walked a lot when getting to know new destinations.
- 11 workouts
- Trekking 8 km (1 hike)
- Running 59 km (6 runs)
- Canoeing 3 hours (2 trips)
- Cycling 10 km
- TOTAL 81 km
- 7 workouts
- Hiking 27,4 km (2 hikes)
- Running 32,1 km (4 runs)
- Trail running 7,1 km (1 run)
- TOTAL 66,6 km
We spend September still in Europe, partly in Alsace France and partly in Baden-Württemberg in Germany, where we were house- and pet-sitting for ten days. We worked a lot, trying to get as much done as possible before flying to Cuba, so we didn’t have time to go for longer hikes for example, even if autumn in Central Europe is perfect for hiking. But we ran quite a lot, along trails up on the hills and on more even ground as well. During our house sit we were able to do short runs with two energetic dogs, which was great for a change! No gym exercise during the whole month unfortunately, just some occasional push-ups and sit-ups.
- 12 workouts
- Trail running: 80 km (9 runs, including one half marathon)
- Running: 30 km (3 runs)
- TOTAL 110 km
In August we stayed the whole month in one place, house sitting in Alsace, France. From sports point of view it was a pretty active month, even though we sat long days in front of our laptops, getting work done. We lived in our friends house, very close to the foothills of Vosges Mountains, and the possibilities for trail running there are just great. We made several demanding runs up on the hills, and also some easier runs down in the valley, along narrow roads in between vineyards and through the picturesque small villages. Unfortunately there is no gym in the village, but we did some weight training with a barbell at home.
19 workouts
Trail running: 92,9 km (8 runs)
Running: 49,8 km (5 runs)
Weigh training: 5 exercises
Cycling: 18 km
TOTAL: 160,5 km
In July our summer road trip in northern Spain and southern France continued. In the beginning of the month we were in Pyrenees Mountains, and enjoyed hiking and trail running on mountain paths. One of the highlights of the month was a hike in Sorteny Valley in Andorra, and another a long trail run in Ordesa Valley National Park, with stunning mountain views. We ran quite much also in July, and basically all the runs were, at least partially, trail running. Some of the mountain runs and hikes were so demanding, that we needed to have a couple of extra days with no sports after them, bu still 13 workouts all together during the month, and plenty of walking on top of that.
13 workouts
Hiking: 46 km / 20.5 h
Running: 118 km
TOTAL: 164 km
We spent most of June on a road trip in southern France and northern Spain. From sports point of view, this meant more hiking than usual, and also quite nice amount of trail running. Some of the highlights were an afternoon hike in Chamechaude Mountain in French Alps, near Grenoble, and a day hike in Montserrat Mountain in Catalonia, Spain. For us running is often also a way of sightseeing – when arriving in a new destination, we hop in sports clothes and run around the town or to nearby attractions, depending on the location.
14 workouts
Hiking: 55 km / 19 h
Running: 95 km
TOTAL: 150 km
This was a pretty active month, spent mostly in Cyprus, where we made very nice runs and trail runs, and also great, short day hikes. We stayed in total two weeks near or in Limassol, and ran a few times along the coastal promenade, and along the coastline near Kolossi and Episkopi villages. We also stayed a week in small Vikla village up on the hills near Paphos, and made some pretty exhausting hill runs from there. We had a rental car in use, and headed to Akamas Peninsula for some hiking, and also made one short loop when driving up in the Troodos Mountains. In the end of the month we left Cyprus behind, and were on the move for a few days – no actual sports during that time, but a lot of walking, part of it with all our backpacks with us, you could call that exercising too…
Running and trail running: 111 km (9 runs)
Hiking: 32 km (4 short hikes)
Cycling: 15 km
In April we slowly got back in track with doing sports after the super busy March in Finland. During the first half of the month we were still staying in Finland, and headed out to do some cross-country skiing for four times. It’s really good exercise, and you get to enjoy the beauty of snowy forests. We also played volleyball twice with our friends. When in Bulgaria, we hiked in Vitosha nature park near Sofia, and when in Cyprus, we started to run and go trail running again. We also got to borrow bicycles when house sitting near Limassol, and made some sweaty drives over the hills and easier riding by the coastline. All together 17 workouts during the month.
Cross-country skiing 74 km (5 h 35 min)
Running 34,5 km
Hiking 4 hours (12 km)
Cycling 24 km
Other 3 h 15 min
Oh dear, this is embarrassing. March was (again this year) a horrible month when it comes to sports. We were in Finland, and worked a bit over to weeks in Oulu Music Festival, and during that time we didn’t have any time or energy for doing sports. On the other hand, the days were really active, as we walked and carried stuff a lot. Before and after the festival we had made a couple of runs and also tried out new nordic skiing shoes when visiting Rokua National Park. In addition, we played volley ball twice. Better than nothing of course, but lousy month really.
RUNNING: 19 km (3)
VOLLEY BALL: 2:20 h
OTHER: 1:05 h
In February we stayed still in Cyprus, visiting also North Cyprus side. In the end of the month we flew to Finland. It was a pretty active month, as we tried to focus on running, and made both short runs along asphalted roads and a bit longer trail runs up on the hills and along paths. After flying to snowy Finland, we continued running despite the cold weather.
RUNNING: 60 km (5)
TRAIL RUNNING: 65 km (5)
HIKING: 11 km (1)
We stayed the whole January in Cyprus, and had great possibilities for trail running when staying in smaller villages. We kind of decided to try longer runs, aiming to participate in ultra runs later this year. This means the need of running more than before, making longer runs and adding some hill training in the program. Ultra long runs (which means longer distances than a marathon) are exhausting and very tough for knees, hips and leg muscles, even if you are in good shape, so a lot of training is needed. During the month we mostly run on hills near Limassol, and made some runs in the seashore in Kolossi, Larnaka and Paralimni.
January was pretty active month when it comes to running, but no gym training at all… we are really losing some muscles here, boo to that.
RUNNING: 59.57 km (6)
TRAIL RUNNING: 48.65 km (3)
We started the month in UAE, where we walked a lot, over 15 km per day for sure, but didn’t do any actual sports during the first week of December. After UAE we flew to Cyprus, and stayed in the small village of Agios Tychon for 10 days. When the weather was nice and sunny, we made runs along the coastal walking promenade and in the nearby hills. Around Christmas and New Year we were in Nicosia, and made some runs, including one half marathon, along a nice and long walking path.
Stats of the month: 80 kilometers running and trail running (6 times) and 2 times in gym. Taking into account the amount of walking, it was an active month, but we really should go to gym more often.
We started the month with a two weeks trip from Batumi to Azerbaijan. It meant lots of traveling, long days in local buses and less weight training, but we went running quite often and made one day hike in Sheki and surroundings. back in Batumi, we suffered from the flu, so not as much running as usually. In the end of the month we traveled to Tbilisi for couple of days, and then flew to Riga and to United Arab Emirates. We walked crazy much in UAE, but didn’t record that. Also some running by the coastline and even gym, though it was for men only.
Stats of the month; 6 times in gym, including 12 kilometers on treadmill, 35 kilometers running outside and 25 kilometers hiking.
October was a bit different month when it comes to sports. We spent three weeks of it in one place, Batumi in Georgia, and had a membership to a local gym. That meant of course much more weight training than usually, and at the same time less running outside. Weather was still mostly nice, and we did couple of hikes in the nearby national parks.
In the end of the month we traveled over the Lesser Caucasus mountains to Yerevan in Armenia. Long travel days in mini-buses and train with no exercise, but then again we went for a run and to gym in Yerevan also.
Stats of the month; 10 times in gym, including 17 kilometers on treadmill, three 10 kilometer runs and 41 kilometers hiking. One hike was in Mtirala national park, climbing 1300 meters up to a hill top in the middle of subtropical vegetation, and another to Machachela national park. 15 days with exercise, not including long walks around the city, so quite an active month, and it was great to see some results in gym!
In September we traveled the whole month in fantastic Georgia. We started from the capital Tbilisi, visited smaller Kutaisi, traveled to Mestia for hiking in Caucasus Mountains and after that stayed in Batumi by the Black Sea.
In Tbilisi we ran on the scenic hills around the city and in Batumi along the gorgeous beach boulevard, but the highlight of the month was a three-days, nearly 60 km hike in Svaneti mountain area. Absolutely stunning, and quite demanding; we walked over 17 hours, and the total ascent was 2659 meters. In addition to running and hiking we went to gym few times, and even bought a membership to a gym in Batumi in the end of the month.
Stats of the month; in total over 32 hours sports, 53 km running + 7 km running on treadmill, 58 km hiking, 13 km trail running and 6 times in gym. Very active month, even if we had several days break from doing sports after the hike.
We spent first three weeks of August house-sitting in beautiful Alsace, France. After that it was time to start traveling again, this time without our car. We took a train to Paris, and flew from there once again to Riga, and from then onward to Minsk for a short visit. In the end of the month we flew to Tbilisi to start our two months adventure in Caucasus.
In Alsace we continued our routine of trail runs up in the mountain sides and runs through cute, neighboring villages, and also did some strength training and bicycled around. Towards the end of the month, when traveling more, the amount of sports decreased a bit, but we ran also in Minsk and in Tbilisi.
Stats of the month; 79 km trail running (7 sessions), 38 km running (4 sessions) and maybe 6 short sessions of weight lifting, not all recorded. Nicely active month even though there was longer breaks from training in the end of the month when we traveled more.
We started the month in Czech Republic, and drove through Germany to France to start our 6 weeks of house sitting in Alsace. In Czechia we went to gym twice, hiked and went trail running in Bohemian Switzerland National Park and ran along forest trails near gorgeous Karlovy Vary. During our short stay in Germany we went trail running in Blaubeuren near Ulm. While house-sitting in France we had plenty of time for trail running up on the nearby hills and jogging through picturesque Alsace villages. We also lifted some weights and rode bicycles.
Stats of the month; 64 km trail running (5 sessions), 44 km running (5 session), 1 hike (9 km), 5 strenght training sessions and 50 km bicycling. Very active month, and an indication that when traveling less, so staying in one location for longer, it’s easy to do more sports.
In the beginning of June we flew from Riga to Athens to pick up our car, and started a road trip in Central Europe. After a ferry ride to Ancona, we drove through Italy and Austria to meet with our friends and former orchestra in Prague and to explore Czech Republic. We went hiking in San Marino, in Bolca and Gemona del Friuli (up to Mt Chiampon) in Italy and in Krkonose Mountains in Czech Republic, and also made several runs in Italy and Czechia.
Stats of the month; 72 km hiking, 65 km running, 3 gym sessions and 20 km inline skating (yes, we have our roller skates in the trunk of our car). Nicely active month, training almost every other day.
In May we traveled around Portugal, and in the end of the month flew to Riga for a few days visit in Siberia. In Portugal we ran through small villages when house-sitting in the countryside and hiked and went trail running along the Rota Vicentina / Fisherman’s Trail, admiring the views of coastal Alentejo. We also went running in Almograve, and along a hiking trail near Mina de Sao Domingos and its deserted mining area, as well as near Peniche north from Lisbon. The last hike of the month was on the forested hills next to beautiful Sintra. In Siberia the tour program was so intense, that we had no time for sports.
The stats of the month; 68 kilometers running and trail running (7 sessions), two hikes (25 kilometers) and one gym session in Riga. Pretty active month, counting out the trip to Siberia.
We started the month with a visit to our parents in Finnish Lapland, and went cross-country skiing in Rovaniemi. We actually used to do that quite a lot in our old life, and were still able to ski 30 km in a bit above 2 hours. Before continuing our journey abroad, we went for a long run (half marathon) in Finland, but after that our legs were so sore that we could hardly walk for couple of days… maybe a bit shorter route would have been wiser after a long break from running, whoops. When back on the road we went running in Riga in Latvia and in Lisbon, Paco de Arcos, Amora and Verdelho in Portugal.
No gym during April, we should really get back on track with that before all our muscles are gone… Altogether nearly 90 km running (8 times) and 30 km skiing, so not that bad month as March, but clearly not active enough still. We’ll improve from this!
We started the month with still couple days in Cyprus, but didn’t do any other sports than just walking around. Then it was time for almost 6 weeks work and holiday in Finland. We were really busy basically the whole March, which unfortunately meant very limited amount of sports. Even if are well aware that exercising even for shortly helps to stay energetic. In the end of the month we headed to visit our parents in northern Finland and went to cross-country skiing after a long time!
The stats are unmerciful; only 6 training sessions and just 6 hours of exercise during the whole month. This must be record low for us, like ever. One cross-country skiing of 20 km, 2 times running, 2 short gym exercises and just one run. Still close to 300 kilometers measured in steps, so in that sense it was quite active month even if the amount of actual exercise was low.
First week of February we were still in Peloponnese, mostly near Kalamata. We made a nice day hike to Ridomo Gorge and also ran up and down the mountain slopes. After leaving our car behind and flying to Cyprus went running and to gym in Larnaca, Nicosia and Kyrenia. We also made some day hikes to the mountains near Kyrenia in North Cyprus. The last days of the month we spent in Empa near Paphos, where we ran along the seashore under the warming spring sun.
All in all February was pretty active month with 16 training sessions and up to 29 hours of exercise. We went running 8 times (89 kilometers) and hiked 50 kilometers. In addition to that we went to gym 5 times and also walked a lot as altogether 354 kilometers was measured in steps.
We started the year in Athens, where we were quite active with sports; went to gym several times and ran in parks and on the outskirts of the city few times during the three weeks we spent in Athens. After that we moved to Peloponnese, but there was a break with exercising due to fever. After we were back in the came, we went to gym and running in Perigiali in the end of the month.
The measured activities sum up to 16 sessions but just over 13 hours of exercise, which is not that much but OK taken into account the fever period. 68 km running outside is nice result after two colder and not that active running months. No hiking in January, and only 4 times in gym, should find more time for those activities in the future.
We spent most of December in Albania. Started the month in Vlore, where we went to gym couple of times, hiked up from the coast to the Kanine village over the hills and ran along the beach walkaways. After driving through Albanian Riviera to our next destinations Sarande and Ksamil, we continued going to gym and also went running when the weather was nicer.
In the end of the month we moved south to Greece, and headed first to Kalambaka for hikes in Meteora Monasteries. When celebrating Christmas in coastal Itea again went running and also made a short day hike in Delphi. The year ended in Athens, where we went for some sightseeing runs to get familiar with the city.
All in all December was quite active month; 16 measured training sessions and 29 hours of exercise. As the weather was mostly cold, we went more often to gym than usually, but still 54 kilometers running and 44 km of hiking outside.
During the first week of November we suffered from slight flu with sore throats and thus didn’t do any sports. After gathering back our strength there were 12 sporty days in Macedonia and Albania. We hiked twice in Matka Canyon near Skopje, Macedonia and went to gym and running in Tirana, Durres and Vlore in Albania. Weather was getting colder and rainier, so there was less outdoor exercises in November than before. Luckily we found some great fitness centers and could also run indoors.
Totally 84 km of running and hiking and 260 km measured in steps during the month. All in all we exercised almost 20 hours during November, so not that bad taking into account that one week was reserved for recovering.
October was quite nice exercise month for us. Weather was mostly good for running and hiking and we found some great gyms with good value for the money. The most awesome gym / fitness center was in Plovdiv (Bulgaria), it was opened just about a month ago.
Totally 125 km of running and hiking and 370 km measured in steps during the month.
Have to say that we are not too satisfied with this month fitness results, since compared to August, our stats went down. There were more hiking days (5), but we went running only seven times during the month. On the other hand, we really needed some days rest after the demanding hikes. Gym training count dropped down to 3 events, when not counting in some occasional, short training sessions in outdoor gyms.
Totally 128 km of running and hiking and 412 km measured in steps during the month.
160 km of running and hiking and 470 km measured in steps.