Quick summary: The rise of endurance escapes reflects a growing trend where 25% of Britons are more inclined to participate in physical challenges when they are integrated into a domestic holiday. This shift towards sports tourism highlights the importance of holistic well being, as athletes increasingly prioritise self catered accommodation to manage nutrition and facilitate psychological recovery alongside their physical performance. By transitioning from isolated one day fixtures to shared travel experiences, these events foster stronger community connections and offer clear benefits for long term mental health and physical resilience.
A new survey has highlighted the growing popularity of combining sporting challenges with UK holidays, as enthusiasts increasingly turn major fitness events into memorable getaways.
From HYROX competitions to marathon running and Ironman events, sporting events have surged in popularity in recent years. The survey, carried out by Parkdean Resorts, found that nearly 2 in 5 (38%) Brits said they or someone they know had competed in a sporting event recently. A quarter (25%) said they would be more inclined to compete if it involved travel, whilst almost 4 in 5 (78%) said they would travel to support a family member, partner, or friend at an event.
Brits are increasingly keen to incorporate their sporting hobbies into a staycation that allows them to prepare ahead of time and relax post-event. Parkdean Resorts is coining the trend “Endurance Escapes.”
Upcoming events
Major events on the UK calendar include the London Marathon on 26th April, HYROX Cardiff from 29th April – 4th May, Ironman Bolton on 7th June, and the Great North Swim from 12th–14th June.
To help athletes plan their trips, Parkdean has partnered with personal trainer and HYROX competitor Ben Teasdale, who offers the following advice.
Fuelling your performance
Nutrition planning is essential, according to Teasdale: “My biggest tip is that you’ll need to think about what you’re fuelling your body with while you’re away to ensure you’re maximising performance. That means prioritising getting plenty of carbohydrates the night before. If you’re away from home, you might need to research restaurants or food options nearby and book to make sure you’ll get the right kind of food. Self-catered accommodation makes a great option as you can bring the food you’d usually eat at home, or order a food shop to be delivered for ease.”
On race day, he recommends eating fast-release carbohydrates like bagels, sugary cereals, and bananas to fuel glycogen stores, while avoiding high-fibre foods such as beans and dairy, which may cause bloating or sluggishness. For longer events, athletes should also pack race fuel such as energy gels, electrolyte drinks, or sweets.
“Planning your meals before the trip ensures you’re eating foods you’re used to, so they won’t upset your stomach or cause unexpected issues,” Teasdale added.
Packing smart
Teasdale also stresses the importance of preparation when packing: “Make a checklist in advance so you don’t forget essentials like your kit, trainers, hydration, and any accessories you’ve trained with. It’s always a good idea to pack spares of key items like socks or nutrition, just in case. If you’re travelling the day before, lay everything out the night before your event so there’s no panic in the morning. Keeping your routine as close to normal as possible will help you feel more confident and focused.”
Rest and recovery
Once the event is over, Teasdale advises athletes to treat recovery with the same seriousness as preparation: “refuel with a balanced meal that includes both protein and carbohydrates within a couple of hours of finishing, to help repair muscles and replenish your energy stores. Hydration is also key, so keep sipping water or electrolyte drinks throughout the day. make sure you stretch after your event and take the time to properly rest. Light movement can actually help reduce stiffness the next day, but it’s important not to overdo it.”
He added that facilities such as a sauna or pool, where available, can be a valuable part of recovery.
Making the most of the experience
Teasdale encourages competitors to look beyond the event itself: “an endurance escape isn’t just about the event. Plan something enjoyable for after your race, whether that’s exploring the local area, celebrating with friends or family, or simply taking time to relax and reflect on what you’ve achieved. By planning ahead and striking the right balance between preparation and enjoyment, you can make the most of both your performance and your time away.”
A spokesperson for Parkdean Resorts said the trend reflects a shift in how people approach fitness: “Sports tourism is really having a moment, and we’re seeing more people than ever looking to turn their passion for fitness into a full experience rather than just a one-day event. People are increasingly choosing to travel with friends or family, making it a shared experience. What’s really driving the trend is that balance: pushing yourself physically, then rewarding that effort with time to relax, recover, and enjoy a break in a comfortable setting.”
Parkdean Resorts operates multiple holiday parks across the UK, providing self-catered options suitable for endurance escapes.