Photo courtesy of Steph Beth Nickel

On the Road Again by Stephanie Nickel

It was probably about this time last year that I shared some thoughts on how to stay on track even when we’re away from home.

I will be heading off to Toronto for the Write Canada conference on Thursday, June 11. It’s going to be a jam-packed three days, but I’m hoping to take advantage of the hotel facilities at least once or twice.

So, what can we do when we’re away to maintain the momentum?

Here are 13 ideas:

1. Take the stairs rather than the elevator—two at a time if you’re particularly ambitious.

2. Go for a swim in the hotel pool.

3. Pay a visit to the fitness room and walk on the treadmill, maybe even lift a few weights. If that’s not your thing, pack resistance bands or hand weights and exercise in your room.

Just a word of warning here . . . make sure you know how to operate the equipment properly and workout with a friend so you can stay safe.

4. If your hotel is centrally located—and it’s safe to do so, walk rather than taking a vehicle to your various destinations.

5. If you will be doing a fair bit of walking, keep that in mind when choosing footwear. Make sure they’re adequately “broken in,” if you have recently purchased new shoes, boots, or sandals for your time away.

6. Try to get adequate rest. This can be difficult, but sleep is crucial to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

7. Keep water on hand at all times and stay hydrated.

8. Eat small portions and eat often. This will keep your energy level up and your blood sugar regulated. It will help prevent overeating at the next meal and may fend off headaches and irritability.

9. Choose fresh fruit as an alternative to heavy, rich desserts—at least most of the time.

10. Avoid buffets if you tend to overeat.

11. Keep the intake of calorie-rich beverages to a minimum.

12. Don’t get so wrapped up trying to make the healthy choice that you feel deprived and miss out on the fun. It’s about doing better so you can enjoy the countless benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

13. Have fun! Mental well-being is important too.

Of course not all suggestions will pertain to all readers—and what constitutes “healthy eating” varies greatly, depending on who you’re talking to, but if you keep the following in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making healthy choices:

Keep moving. Stay hydrated. Eat clean; eat often. Sleep well.

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Keep moving. Stay hydrated. Eat clean; eat often. Sleep well. (tweet this)

Check out other articles by Stephanie

12 Ways to Stay Active When You Have Company

8 Suggestions to Stay Active Despite the Weather

12 Fitness Tips While on the Road

Steph Beth Nickel is an author, a freelance editor and writer, a labour doula, and a former personal trainer. She’d love to connect with you on Facebook or Twitter, on her website or blog.