Whether you’re traveling for work or for pleasure, being out of the house and out in the world for days on end can wreak havoc on your daily routine. Unfortunately, time set aside for exercise is often one of the first to get bumped off the daily schedule. But fear not, with a little planning and creativity, you can stay fit and healthy even when you’re on the move.
As personal trainers and owners of a state-of-the-art personalized indoor/outdoor training facility, we’re no strangers to travel disruptions, but we’ve come up with some tips and tricks for maintaining your fitness while traveling:
- Plan Ahead
The key to staying fit while traveling is planning. Most hotels have gyms these days, but if you’re pinching pennies or staying with friends/family, you should plan ahead. Research your destination and the fitness facilities that are available. Look for local gyms, yoga studios, or community centers that offer temporary memberships or day passes.
- Pack the Essentials
Lightweight fitness clothes and gear can easily fit in your carry-on bag. For a long trip, compact gear like resistance bands, a jump rope, or a travel-sized yoga mat can be easily packed and taken with you wherever you go.
- Prioritize Bodyweight Exercises
Bodyweight exercises are a traveler’s best friend. They require no equipment, can be done anywhere, and effectively work multiple muscle groups. Some simple bodyweight exercises include:
- Push-ups
- Squats
- Lunges
- Planks
- Burpees
Create a mini-circuit workout by combining these exercises and try to aim for 3-4 sets of each. This will help you maintain muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness while traveling.
- Travel by Foot or Bike
Instead of relying solely on public transportation or ride share services, try getting from point A to point B on your feet or a bicycle. Not only will you get to experience the local culture more intimately, but you’ll also burn calories and improve your cardiovascular fitness along the way.
5. Choose Active Experiences
If you’re traveling for pleasure, opt for travel activities that incorporate movement and physical exertion. Hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, even skiing or snowboarding, are all excellent ways to stay fit and enjoy the local scenery. If you’re traveling for work, consider incorporating a team-building activity that requires physical activity, like group hike or team-building sports game.
In our current climate, travel has become more and more unpredictable every day, and you may not always be able to stick to your usual fitness routine. So, don’t be afraid to try new activities or adjust your workout schedule based on your travel itinerary. Remember, the goal is to stay active and maintain your fitness, even if it looks different than your regular routine.
