From easy-to-pack items, to fitness goals and daily routines, these tips will help you stay active on your travels.
My adventures around the world have kept me pretty active. But, while walking and hiking can feel like ‘exercise’, the type of fitness feels a little different to the cardio I’m used to at home.
I’m a keen runner. Actually, let me rephrase that. I’m a runner, and sometimes I enjoy it! I feel a million times better after a run. I adore the headspace that a jog around the local park brings. For 30 minutes, I feel untouchable. My daily stresses can’t get to me! I feel the breeze in my hair as my eyes take in nature, city life and more.
Oh, and how about that uplifting surge of endorphins? That’s amazing too!
But, when I’m away on my travels, I run a lot less. My intentions are good. I often pack my running shoes, yet getting me out the door on a jog feels like a challenge.
But, even if a run isn’t on the cards, I’m always really active on my travels. I love a hike, an adventure, a water activity or something more adrenaline-filled!
What about you? Are you the same? Do you stay active when you’re travelling or do you end up lazing around a lot?
In this post I’m going to share a few quick tips for keeping your energy levels up on your holidays and adventures. They’re simple suggestions that can make a huge difference to your physical fitness.
8 Ways To Keep Fit On Holiday
Plan Ahead
I often look at the destination I’ll be visiting and look at what kind of exercise might be suitable. As I like to run, this usually involves looking on the map to see what paths are nearby to my accommodation. If you’re more of a gym bunny, you could see if any local gyms offer short-term passes. Or perhaps you’re choosing your hotel and you could pick one with a gym. A bit of planning can go a long way.
Pack The Right Clothes
You don’t need a full gym wardrobe to stay active while travelling. I’d recommend taking a few sporty items, like comfy leggings, athleisure wear and a decent pair of trainers. You just need a few items and you’ll be able to nip out for a power walk, run or to the gym.
If you want to train in a specific way, you could pack some resistance bands or a skipping rope. They’re both lightweight and compact, so you’ll be able to do strength or cardio work without overpacking.
Walk, Walk, Walk
One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay active while travelling is to walk. This is my favourite ways to see a new destination. Often, as you walk, you spot interesting sights, hidden gems or stumble upon lovely spots for food and drink. Not only will you be burning a few calories, you’ll also be adding to your experience of the town you’re visiting.
Work Out In Your Hotel Room
Even if you don’t have access to a gym, you can still exercise in your hotel room. I follow some amazing fitness YouTubers, including MadFit and Grow With Jo, who are great for guiding you through workouts. I’ve been known to stream them on my travels, doing push-ups, squats, lunges and jumps in my hotel room (sorry to anyone staying below!)
If you’re looking for more tips for staying active on holiday, definitely take a look at these from Avanti Travel Insurance
Try Local Activities
Fitness abroad can be a lot more fun than at home! I often get bored of running around the same few parks each week. I also love that I can swap my daily exercise for a more engaging activity, such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaking or swimming.
Not long ago, we visited the beautiful Florida Keys. One of the highlights was waking up by the water each day, and hopping on a stand up paddle board. Not only was I staying active, I was also enjoying a bit of headspace as I took in the stunning surroundings.
Set Fitness Goals
I usually aim to do 30 minutes of proper cardio exercise, three times a week. If I’m travelling, that can be harder to fit in. But, it’s good to set some kind of goals for your trips. I usually try to keep to a step target of 10,000 steps a day. My phone automatically tracks this, but you can easily log this using fitness apps such as Strava or a watch like a Garmin or FitBit.
Enjoy The Social Side
Travelling is about so much more than just getting from one place to another. It’s about creating moments with the people you care about. Some of my favourite memories from my trips involve swapping lazy time by the pool for volcano hikes, or skipping the pub and going out kayaking!
I’ve also had funny moments at a spinning at a hotel in Mexico and trying pilates in Mauritius. I can’t say I was very good at either of them, but it was fun to try them with the people I was travelling with!
If you’re looking for an easy way to stay active and have fun with friends, look at whether you can hire bikes in your destination. Just hopping on two wheels and scooting around will get your heart racing a little more than walking!
Don’t Be Hard On Yourself
It’s ok if things slip when you’re on holiday. I think it’s inevitable that you’ll return a little less fit! You’re likely to overindulge a little and your routine will go out the window. Even with the best intentions, it can be hard to stick to your plan.
Don’t be too hard on yourself. Relax. Just enjoy the adventures and stay as active as you can. You’ll be back in a routine at home before you know it!
I hope this guide helps you stay active on your travels. With a little planning and a positive attitude, you enjoy your travels and feel great at the same time!