Maintaining Your Workout Routine on Vacation

When you travel, it's tempting to throw all caution to the wind and abandon your health routine for a week or two. And while it's OK to take a little break—after all, a vacation is supposed to be a relaxing getaway from everyday life—avoiding exercise altogether, even for a short period of time, can make it difficult to return to your routine when you’re back at home. Maintaining your workout routine on vacation offers numerous other benefits as well:   

• Keeping up your energy levels and avoiding feeling sluggish on your trip  
• Staying on track toward your long-term health and wellness goals  
• Experiencing new fitness activities you might not have access to at home  
• Meeting new people who share your enthusiasm for fitness  
• Easing any guilt you might feel about overindulging during your vacation  
• Increasing your confidence 
• Promoting positive mental health and relieving travel-related anxiety 

So, how do you make it work? Start with these tips.

1. Choose the right lodging.  

Many hotels and resorts offer some sort of facility for exercise, whether it's a fully equipped gym or a small space filled with assorted equipment for strength and cardio workouts, like weights, a treadmill, and a stationary bicycle. Some luxury lodging options may even offer lap pools, tennis courts, climbing walls, and various fitness classes like water aerobics or spinning. Before you book your accommodation, consider doing some research to determine if the place you choose offers any type of fitness options that suit your interests.

2. Pack your favorite workout gear.  

While traveling with your twenty-pound dumbbells might be a little too cumbersome, you can always bring some of your own workout gear along, assuming it's lightweight and easy to pack. If you have room in your suitcase or carry-on, think about packing your resistance bands, a yoga mat, earbuds, some comfortable workout clothing, and, of course, your favorite pair of ASICS running shoes. Keeping some of your familiar gear accessible might provide the motivation you need to get in a workout every day.  

3. When possible, walk.  

Getting out and exploring your vacation destination is one of the best ways to squeeze in some exercise while you're traveling, and you can do it without even realizing you're working out. When possible, skip the bus or taxi and walk to the attractions. Make a point to explore some parks, beaches, and other outdoor areas where you can walk, jog, or hike in a unique setting. Set out into the city with no precise itinerary and see where your feet take you.

4. Try a new activity.  

One of the most exciting aspects of traveling is discovering new activities, which can extend to those contributing to your overall physical fitness. Now is the time to find the courage to take that surfing lesson, hike that mountain, sign up for that yoga class, take up kayaking, swim in the ocean, or try rock climbing. Anything that motivates you to incorporate movement into the day is a great way to help you stay active while you're enjoying some downtime. If it gives you an adrenaline rush, even better.

5. Rely on technology. 

When all else fails, pull up your favorite workout apps and online videos and incorporate a quick workout into your morning routine in your hotel room. You’ll find hundreds if not thousands of free apps and videos on sites, including everything from Pilates to HIIT training. And completing that hotel workout first thing in the morning can help set the tone for a successful day. When you exercise, your body secretes neurotransmitters that can improve mental clarity and your attention span. Morning workouts may also give you a stronger sense of accomplishment that you can carry with you throughout your day. 

No matter how you choose to incorporate movement and physical activity into your vacation, just remember to be patient with yourself. Your workouts on the road won't look exactly like those at home, but making that effort will help keep you feel great during and after your trip.   

Please note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not contain or constitute medical advice or a medical opinion. Always consult with your qualified and licensed medical professional prior to beginning or modifying any diet or exercise program.