Traveling often disrupts our regular fitness routines, but it doesn’t have to. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can stay fit and healthy while exploring new destinations. This guide offers practical tips and strategies to help you maintain your fitness levels on the go, ensuring you return home just as fit as when you left.
Key Takeaways
- Walk everywhere you can to explore the city and get some exercise.
- Pack portable workout gear like resistance bands or a jump rope.
- Choose accommodations that offer fitness amenities or are near parks.
- Make healthy food choices by visiting local markets and opting for grilled over fried foods.
- Stay accountable with fitness tracking apps and virtual workout classes.
Walk Everywhere You Can
When I’m traveling, I always choose to go by foot whenever possible. Avoid the urge to take the nearest bus, tram, or train if your destination is just a few kilometers away. Do NOT give in—just put on some comfy shoes and do it on foot! This way, you’ll get some exercise and save money from your travel fund.
Explore the City on Foot
Once at your destination, keep walking as much as you possibly can. If I have time, I’ll walk anywhere I need to get to, provided it’s within an hour or two. My record for city walking was in Taipei, where I walked 11 miles back to my hotel after visiting a museum on the outskirts of the city. I’ve had fewer more enjoyable days in a foreign city and certainly never seen so much of a place in a single day. Walk, walk, walk.
Take Scenic Routes
Other than doing your own ‘tour,’ look for free walking tours in the city that you’re in! There are a lot of them out there, and a quick Google search will easily lead you to one. I know that the walkalator in the airport looks so tempting, but don’t get lazy. Walk with your own might! It might not seem much, but small efforts can do a lot if put all together.
Skip the Elevator
Whenever and wherever possible, take the stairs instead of the escalator at airports. Only use the horizontal escalators if you’re late for a flight. Modern hub airports are huge, and you can cover some serious ground by walking. Motion is lotion, so if you want to remain loose and ready for more strenuous exercise, keep your body moving.
Pack Portable Workout Gear
When I’m on the move, I always make sure to pack some portable workout gear. It’s a game-changer for staying fit without needing a full gym setup. Do your future self a favor and add these to your travel essentials.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are incredibly versatile and take up almost no space in your luggage. You can use them for a full-body workout right in your hotel room. I found some great options on Amazon, like the Evo Gym set which includes six resistance bands, a base, and handles. Perfect for strength training anywhere!
Jump Rope
A jump rope is another must-have. It’s lightweight and can give you a fantastic cardio workout in just a few minutes. Whether you’re in your hotel room or outside, a skipping rope is great if you’re short on time. Plus, it’s super easy to pack!
Travel Yoga Mat
Don’t forget a travel yoga mat. It’s compact and can be rolled up to fit in your backpack. This way, you can do your morning stretches or a full yoga session wherever you are. It’s perfect for keeping your routine consistent, even on the go.
Another hack is to buy some piece of travel fitness equipment that fits in your backpack and can be set up anywhere you are. Incorporating it into your routine can make a huge difference in maintaining your fitness levels while traveling.
Choose Active Accommodations
When I’m on the road, I always make it a point to choose accommodations that keep me moving. It’s a great way to stay fit without even trying too hard. Here are my top tips for picking the right place to stay:
Stay at Hotels with Gyms
I love staying at hotels that have gyms. It’s super convenient to just head downstairs for a quick workout. Plus, many hotels offer standardized amenities that make it easy to stick to your routine.
Book a Place Near Parks
One of my favorite things to do is book a place near a park. It gives me the perfect excuse to go for a morning jog or an evening stroll. Parks are also great for doing some outdoor exercises like yoga or even a bit of wall climbing.
Look for Bike Rentals
If you’re into biking, look for accommodations that offer bike rentals. It’s a fun way to explore the city and get some exercise in at the same time. Many places now offer this service, making it easier than ever to stay active.
Choosing active accommodations can turn your trip into an adventure. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just a simple walk in the park, staying active while traveling doesn’t have to be a chore.
So next time you’re planning a trip, think about how your choice of accommodation can help you stay fit and enjoy some active adventures along the way.
Make Healthy Food Choices
When I’m on the road, I always try to make healthy food choices. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely doable with a bit of planning and effort. Here are some tips that help me stay on track:
Visit Local Markets
One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to visit local markets. Not only do I get to experience the local culture, but I also find fresh and healthy food options. I usually grab some fruits, vegetables, and nuts to snack on throughout the day. This approach could involve looking up restaurants in advance with healthier meal options, packing snacks such as fruits and protein bars, or even finding…
Opt for Grilled Over Fried
Whenever I have the option, I always choose grilled over fried foods. Grilled foods are generally healthier and have fewer calories. Plus, they often taste better! It’s a simple swap that can make a big difference in my diet.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when traveling. I always carry a reusable water bottle with me and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. It helps me feel more energized and keeps my skin looking great. Some healthy foods to pack when traveling include protein bars, nuts, jerky, dried cheese crisps, fruit and whole grain crackers.
Living healthy and working out go hand in hand — one can’t be done effectively without the other! Always remember this.
Incorporate Short Workouts
When you’re on the move, it’s essential to aim for shorter, more manageable workouts that can easily fit into your travel schedule. Here are some ways to stay active without dedicating too much time.
Morning Stretch Routine
Starting your day with a quick stretch routine can set a positive tone. I usually spend about 5-10 minutes stretching my major muscle groups. It helps me wake up and feel energized for the day ahead.
Hotel Room Exercises
You don’t need a gym to get a good workout. I often do bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks right in my hotel room. A 20-minute session can be surprisingly effective.
Quick Cardio Bursts
High-intensity, low-duration workouts are my go-to. For instance, I might do a series of burpees, mountain climbers, or jumping jacks for 1 minute, rest for another minute, and repeat this cycle a few times. This method is not only efficient but also keeps my heart rate up and burns calories fast.
Remember, it’s not about how long you work out, but how effectively you use your time. Even a few minutes of intense exercise can make a big difference.
Incorporating these short workouts into your travel routine can help you stay fit and active without taking away from your travel experiences.
Stay Accountable with Apps
When I’m on the road, one of my go-to strategies for staying fit is using fitness apps. They help me keep track of my progress and stay motivated, no matter where I am. Using an app also means that you get the chance to mix things up rather than simply going through the same boring routine day in, day out. Personally, I currently use the TRX “Training Club” fitness app that offers a wide array of different routines ranging from HIIT, Core, Yoga, and strength.
Fitness Tracking Apps
One hack that I recently came across was to start using a fitness app to help me stay fit on the road. The beauty of this approach is that you can use the app to find a routine that is suitable – i.e., a workout that requires no equipment or one that can be executed with very limited space. Some of my top picks include:
- 8fit
- Aaptiv
- Apple Fitness+
- Blogilates
- Centr, by Chris Hemsworth
- Find What Feels Good
- FitOn: Fitness Workout Plans
- Jefit
Healthy Eating Apps
Staying fit isn’t just about exercise; it’s also about what you eat. I use healthy eating apps to help me make better food choices. These apps offer meal plans, grocery lists, and even recipes that are easy to follow. They make it simple to stick to a healthy diet, even when I’m tempted by local delicacies.
Virtual Workout Classes
Sometimes, I need a little extra motivation, and that’s where virtual workout classes come in. These classes are great because they offer a sense of community and accountability. Plus, I can join a class from anywhere in the world. My favorite apps for virtual workouts include:
- Seven – 7 Minute Workout
- Sworkit
- YogaGlo
- Barre3
- Fitify
You can also have some fun with it if you’re crazy like me. In Croatia during Yacht Week last year, I came up with a rule that I had to do 10 squats and 10 push-ups every morning for each drink consumed the night before. What started out as a joke among my boatmates suddenly became an accountability tactic. They gladly helped me count my beverages and then count my push-ups the next morning on the deck of the yacht.
Engage in Local Activities
When I’m traveling, I always make it a point to engage in local activities. It’s a fantastic way to stay fit and immerse myself in the culture of the place I’m visiting. Here are some of my favorite ways to stay active while exploring new destinations.
Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep while traveling is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health. Here are some tips to help you prioritize sleep on the road.
Stay Mindful of Your Mental Health
Traveling can be a whirlwind of excitement, but it’s crucial to keep tabs on your mental well-being. Mindset is everything, so remind yourself of the importance of the energy boost and endorphins you get from exercising. Here are some ways to stay mindful of your mental health while on the go:
Practice Meditation
Starting your day with a clear head can make a world of difference. I like to do some breathing exercises or a quick meditation session. It helps me keep an eye on unhealthy feelings and deal with them before they spiral out of control.
Journal Your Experiences
Writing down your thoughts and experiences can be incredibly therapeutic. I often jot down my daily adventures and any emotions I’m feeling. It’s a great way to process everything and stay grounded.
Take Breaks When Needed
Don’t forget to take breaks! Whether it’s a short walk or just sitting in a park, taking time to relax is essential. Being aware of where your mental state is at can help you avoid burnout and enjoy your travels more.
Ultimately, it is so worth putting the time into your mental health and building a habit stack – start with some affirmations, journaling, and maybe have a crack at writing your own manifesto.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re on the move. Here are some tips to help you keep your hydration levels up while traveling.
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
I always make sure to invest in a high-quality reusable water bottle. It’s eco-friendly and ensures I have water on hand at all times. Plus, it’s easier to keep track of how much water I’m drinking throughout the day.
Drink Water Before Meals
One trick I use is to drink a glass of water before each meal. It not only helps with digestion but also keeps me hydrated. This simple habit can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.
Limit Alcohol Intake
While it’s tempting to indulge in a few drinks while on vacation, I try to go easy on the alcohol. Excessive drinking can leave you dehydrated and feeling sluggish. Instead, I opt for water or non-alcoholic beverages between alcoholic drinks to stay refreshed and avoid dehydration.
Staying hydrated is not just about drinking water; it’s about maintaining a balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body. Consider adding a pinch of salt to your water or drinking coconut water for an extra boost of hydration.
Use Public Transportation Wisely
When I’m traveling, I always try to make the most out of public transportation. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s also a great way to stay active and explore the city.
Walk to Transit Stops
Instead of hailing a cab or using a ride-sharing app, I prefer to walk to the nearest transit stop. This way, I get some exercise and save a bit of money. Plus, walking gives me a chance to see more of the local area.
Get Off a Stop Early
One trick I love is getting off a stop or two early. It might add a few extra minutes to my journey, but those extra steps can really add up. It’s a simple way to incorporate more walking into my day.
Use Bike-Sharing Programs
Many cities offer bike-sharing programs, which are a fantastic way to stay fit while getting around. I always look for these options because they allow me to cover more ground than walking, and it’s a fun way to see the sights. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!
Using public transportation wisely can significantly reduce your travel expenses and carbon footprint. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring a new city, make sure to plan your routes and schedules in advance. For more travel tips and to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and more, visit our website today!
Conclusion
Staying fit while traveling doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating simple habits like walking more, making healthier food choices, and finding creative ways to exercise, you can maintain your fitness routine no matter where you are. Remember, it’s all about balance and making the best choices available to you. So next time you hit the road, keep these tips in mind and enjoy your travels without compromising your health. Safe travels and stay fit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy ways to stay active while traveling?
Walk as much as possible, explore the city on foot, and take scenic routes. Additionally, look for hotels with gyms or book accommodations near parks.
How can I maintain my workout routine without a gym?
Pack portable workout gear like resistance bands, a jump rope, or a travel yoga mat. You can also do hotel room exercises and quick cardio bursts.
What should I consider when choosing accommodations to stay fit while traveling?
Choose hotels with gyms, book places near parks, and look for bike rentals. These options provide easy access to fitness facilities and outdoor activities.
How can I eat healthy while traveling?
Visit local markets for fresh produce, opt for grilled over fried foods, and stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink water before meals.
What apps can help me stay fit and healthy while traveling?
Use fitness tracking apps, healthy eating apps, and virtual workout classes to stay accountable and motivated.
How can I incorporate short workouts into my travel schedule?
Try a morning stretch routine, do hotel room exercises, and incorporate quick cardio bursts throughout the day.
Why is it important to prioritize sleep while traveling?
Sticking to a sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding late-night snacks can help you maintain your energy levels and overall well-being.
What activities can I engage in to stay fit and experience the local culture?
Join a walking tour, try a local sport, or take dance classes. These activities help you stay active while immersing yourself in the local culture.
