Don’t Take a Vacation from Fitness by Stephanie Nickel
I am currently in the UK (provided this post goes live when I think it’s supposed to). I have not, however, left my exercise routine behind. In fact, I’ve been more active than I have been in a long time.
So just how does one stay active when out of the office and away from regular routine?
1. Toss a resistance band and a full-body workout you can do anywhere into your luggage.
2. Avoid heavy, rich foods.
3. Make use of the hotel’s pool and/or fitness room.
4. Say no, thank you to seconds and buffets.
5. Whenever possible, walk instead of ride—unless you’re riding a bicycle. (And speaking of riding, I get to ride a horse while I’m here. Oh happy day!)
6. When available, choose fresh fruit rather than calorie-rich desserts.
7. Ramp up the walking to hiking. Based on your level of fitness and your destination, this can include everything from easy hill-climbing (which we hope to do a lot of) to mountain climbing (I wish!).
8. Stay hydrated. This is especially important when flying.
9. Remember to check with your travel companions and find out what physical activities they enjoy. A vacation is the perfect time to try something new.
10. Keep nuts, protein bars, electrolyte-rich zero-calorie drinks with you, so you can “graze” throughout the day—especially if you are going to be active.
11. If you’re friends and family members aren’t the active type, be willing to get up a little earlier and get in some exercise before they’re ready to start the day. (I have no problem in this area. My new daughter-in-law is uber active; I won’t even try to keep up. :D)
12. After checking out the nutritional value, try local delicacies. Go ahead. Be adventurous!
13. And speaking of adventure . . . if you’re an extreme sports enthusiast (again, I wish!), why not try cross-country cycling, repelling down a waterfall, or rock-climbing?
*NOTE: Only attempt these and other extreme sports after adequate professional training with careful supervision.
Everyone is unique with unique health concerns. Before beginning or changing an exercise routine, check with your doctor. The suggestions in this article are for information only and are not meant to replace professional medical, nutritional, and/or fitness advice. Readers implement this information at their own risk.
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Check out other articles by Stephanie
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.