I will be travling in Turkey (Istanbul and Bodrum) for a week in early September 2012. I will also be training for a marathon during that time, and ideally will be able to fit in 3 runs during my trip. I know jogging outside is not as common in other parts of the world as it is in the U.S. Can anyone provide insight into the running culture in Turkey? (E.g., will I get strange looks, is it acceptable to wear running shorts/leggings) Recommended running routes in Istanbul and Bodrum would also be appreciated.
Thanks!
Posted by
Genesee, ID
1840 posts
Running is just as acceptable outside the United States as inside. My wife and I saw numerous runners in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Bucharesti, Vienna, Krakow, Linz, Ulm. You can wear what you want when you go running, everybody else does. Running is not a U.S. activity.
Posted by
Dunwoody, Georgia
338 posts
You'll be fine running in Turkey in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt, but may get some looks, especially outside of Istanbul. In my experience Turks tend to dress up a bit more during exercise - wearing sweat pants, etc. Outside of Istanbul the looks I've received have been more along the lines of surprise at seeing someone who is clearly not local rather than disapproval of my running garb. My advice on a route in Istanbul depends on how far you want to go and where you're staying. Assuming that you're in Sultanahmet and want to go on a mid-length run, a good spot is along the road bordering the outside of the Golden Horn (Kennedy). Its flat and has a sidewalk and street lights and some small park areas. It also gives you a unique view of some of the historic sites and of the water. This is best run in the early morning when traffic is low. One note - I have seen stray dogs in the early mornings here, but never had a problem with them. There is a park next to the Topkopi Palace that you could use for a short run if you like to run during the day. This option will require several laps as the entire park is only about a half mile long. Roads within Sultanahmet and the other Golden Horn neighborhoods are another option. They're somewhat hilly and you'll have to make lots of turns, but an early morning run is a good way to explore and help plan your day. This works best as an out and back option. I can't offer specific advice for Bodrum, but imagine that there is a road along the bay that might be an option. Good luck in your race!
Posted by
Kirkland, WA, usa
32 posts
I just returned from Istanbul and bodrum today. I ran almost daily in Bodrum and got in one long run in Istanbul. I also have run a marathon so you should have no problem going out on runs in shorts/t-shirts/tanktops. Bodrum is pretty hilly so a long run could be a challenge but great place for hill work. In Instanbul I stayed in Sultanahmet neighborhood which is by the water front with a great long flat path along Kennedy. Have fun!