Instead of compromising your vacation body, let’s talk about practical ways to stay healthy and fit when traveling. If you’re like most people, you probably save your vacations for cheat meal and drink time, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Here are some ways to stay in shape even while on the vacation of your dreams.
10 Tips to Stay Healthy and Fit When Traveling
Tip #1: Plan for it.
First and foremost, it’s important to plan to stay healthy and fit when traveling. Doing this is as easy as knowing what food choices are available at the location you’ll be staying at, what dining places are nearby, and if your choice of lodging has a gym area. Consider looking for these amenities as you plan your trip.
Tip #2: Look for fun activities.
Visiting a beach? Try snorkeling. Going to the mountains? Consider taking some nature hikes. Taking advantage of fun activities also gives you an opportunity to indulge in the culture of the place you’re visiting. Most places have activities and classes unique to their area, so look into taking up something new while on your travels.
Tip #3: Be active in your explorations.
It’s easy to rent a car or get a taxi to check out the sites. However, you can trade in the sit-and-ride travel for walking or biking to different places. Grab a backpack or satchel, fill it with water, a small hand towel, a map of the area, and hit the streets, using your body to travel.
Tip #5: Commit to working out 15 minutes in the morning.
Even if the place you’re staying doesn’t have a gym, you can still wake up a few minutes early and dedicate it to stretching, walking the beach, or hitting a walking trail. The only thing standing between you staying healthy and fit is being intentional about doing it. Not to mention, you’ll have more energy for the day’s activities.
Tip #6: Eat light for breakfast.
Continental, full buffet breakfasts sound pretty enticing, especially when you’re on vacation – but don’t let it deter you from your health goals. Instead of indulging until your heart’s content, opt in for a few pieces of fruit, a cup of yogurt topped with granola, or a few pieces of toast and applesauce for breakfast. You’ll feel better, lighter, and ready to go.
Tip #7: Keep the cocktails to a minimum.
Having an adult beverage can certainly make a vacation all the more fun, but instead of going for the sugar-packed drinks, try having your alcohol mixed with soda water and a splash of juice (like cranberry or orange). Also save these for treats instead of your go-to beverage. Stay hydrated with water or coconut water.
Tip #8: Choose healthier snacks.
When you’re traveling, it may be tempting to load up on convenient, unhealthy snack foods. If you don’t pack your own healthy snacks ahead of time, go for the nuts, dried fruit, and trail mix. You won’t feel as bogged down and your body will thank you for it too.
Tip #9: Eat healthy meals.
Most lodging establishments and restaurants offer healthy meal options on their menu. As tempting as it may be to go for the cheat meals, keep in mind that it will be more that you’ll have to work off later. Not to mention, this would be a good time to eat healthy according to the culture of the place you’re traveling.
Tip #10: Travel with a health-conscious partner.
It’s one thing to travel, but it’s another experience when you’re traveling with someone just as health conscious as you are. You’ll be drawn to be more active, explore, and stay moving. It can make for a pretty exciting trip when the person you’re traveling with wants to participate in all of the active and fun outdoor adventures with you.
Conclusion
You don’t have to compromise the work you’ve put into maintaining your health and fitness goals. Make your travels and vacations work for you by making a few conscious and intentional choices. Use the tips above to make sure you keep your health and wellness levels up to par. I’d love to hear from you! How do you stay healthy and fit when traveling?
