Take a Vacation From Work, Not Your Workouts
Summer is almost here which means a time of rest, relaxation, and travel—especially now that travel restrictions are beginning to lift as vaccination rates are on the rise. However, when you deviate from your usual routine, it can be hard to stick to your health and fitness goals. This can be especially true when you travel and you are surrounded by delicious food and comfy hotel beds that make you want to laze around all day. It is important to take breaks and even spoil yourself a little, but it is also possible to stay on track with your healthy lifestyle while you enjoy a summer adventure. Here are four tips to keep you from falling too far off the wagon:
1. Plan ahead for your food. Even if your hotel room does not have a kitchen, you can still prepare to eat healthily. If you fly on a plane, pack some snacks from home so you will not be tempted to buy a cinnamon roll the size of your head when your stomach starts growling. The same goes for a long drive—bring a cooler full of healthy treats instead of resorting to fast food. Additionally, before your vacation, scout out the restaurants near where you are staying so you can check out the menus. You can eat lots of delicious local food and still stay on track with your dietary goals!
2. Find ways to incorporate a workout. Your vacation is a time to recuperate and rest, both of which are important for your body. However, your body still craves movement so give it what it wants! If your hotel has one, check out the fitness center. Or, mix up your routine by utilizing what is around you. For example, if you vacation somewhere with a pool, swim some laps! Or maybe go for a long walk along the beach if you are hanging out somewhere tropical (with plenty of sunscreen, of course). Another option is to do some exercises in your hotel room. Turn that hotel into your personal gym!
3. Plan active side trips. Reserve some time for rest, but make sure you get out and explore the area as well. Depending on your vacation locale, consider adding activities like horseback riding, snorkeling, or a bicycle tour to your itinerary. Be sure to check with the concierge when you arrive as well; they can be able to help you plan fun side trips and might even know of some discounts offered to hotel guests.
4. Avoid the minibar. Not only is it grossly overpriced, but those items are rarely healthy and encourage bad snacking habits. If you are worried about giving into temptation, call the hotel prior to your arrival and ask the staff to clear out the minibar.
Vacations are fun, but that does not mean you have to completely let yourself go so that you end up regretting your time off. Hopefully these tips will help to keep you on track to your personal health and fitness goals while you travel and enjoy your adventures. Additionally, be sure to check with your physician prior to starting any new exercise or diet plan, especially if you are planning on traveling.
Are there any holiday fitness tips you love but we left off our list? Tag us on social media and show us how you stay #BodeStrong on vacation!