Tips for Fitting in a Workout While on Vacation
Vacation is a time to relax and enjoy yourself, but that doesn't mean you have to abandon your fitness routine.
Here are some tips for fitting in a workout while on vacation.
Schedule Your Workouts in Advance
Get a workout in before starting your day:
Going for a morning walk or jog.
Doing some yoga.
Hitting the gym can help you set the tone for the rest of the day and make it easier to stick to your healthy routine while on vacation.
Make time for a workout, even if it's just a short one: Even if you only have 30 minutes, you can still get in a great workout. Take a brisk walk, go for a swim, or do some bodyweight exercises in your hotel room.
Schedule your workouts into your day: Just like you would with any other appointment, schedule your workouts into your day, so you don't forget to do them. Set the alarm on your phone or use a fitness tracker to help you stay on track.
Stay Motivated for Your Workouts
Psychologists say it takes 21 days to form a habit. So, if you work out regularly at home, keeping yourself motivated, there's a good chance you can keep up the same routine while on vacation. Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated for your workouts:
Set a goal, and have a plan. Once you know what your goals are, map out how you're going to achieve them. Decide which days you'll work out and what type of exercise you'll do. If possible, schedule your workouts into your vacation itinerary, so you don't have to think about it when the time comes.
Make it social if you can. Invite your spouse, partner, or friends to join you for your workout. Not only will this help hold you accountable, but you'll also have more fun and be more likely to stick with it.
Reward yourself. After completing a workout, give yourself a small reward, such as a piece of dark chocolate or a new workout outfit. This will help you stay motivated and look forward to your next workout.
Don't beat yourself up. If you miss a workout or two, don't stress about it. Just pick up where you left off, and don't let it derail your entire vacation.
With a bit of planning and effort, you can stay fit and motivated while on vacation. Just remember to focus on your goals, make a plan and enjoy yourself along the way.
Set a Daily or Weekly Workout Goal
It can be tough to stay on track with your workout routine while on vacation. However, setting a daily or weekly goal can help you stay focused and motivated.
Simply don't overdo – Set a realistic goal that fits with your vacation schedule. If you are only going on vacation for a short time, don't try to cram in too much exercise. Instead, focus on maintaining your current fitness level by doing a few moderate-intensity workouts each week.
Find a Local Gym or Fitness Center
Check with your hotel. Many hotels will have a gym on-site or at least be able to point you in the right direction of a nearby facility.
Ask around. If you're not sure where to start, simply ask people in the area for recommendations. Chances are, someone will be able to point you in the right direction.
Look online. A quick internet search should turn up a list of gyms and fitness centers in the area. This is a great way to get an idea of what's available and find one that fits your needs.
Call ahead. Once you've found a few potential options, call them to see if they offer day passes or other options for travelers. This way, you can be sure that you'll be able to use the facility while you're in town.
Drop-in. If all else fails, stop by a few gyms or fitness centers to get a feel for the place and see if it's a good fit for you. Many times, you can purchase a day pass on-site.
Bring Your Workout Gear With You
This way, you can ensure you have everything you need to stay fit and healthy. Here are a few tips to help you pack your workout gear:
Pack light. Only bring the essentials so that you don't have to lug around a lot of weight.
Pack versatile items. Choose workout gear that can be used for multiple activities. For example, bring a pair of running shoes that can also be worn for hiking.
Choose comfortable clothing. You want to be able to move and breathe easily while working out, so make sure your clothing is comfortable.
Bring a water bottle. Staying hydrated is essential, especially when you're working up a sweat.
Pack healthy snacks. If you'll be working out in the morning or afternoon, it's a good idea to pack some healthy snacks to fuel your body. This could include fruits, nuts, or energy bars.
Get Creative With Your Workouts
There are plenty of ways to get a great workout without going to the gym.
Take advantage of your surroundings. Take advantage of it if you're lucky enough to be vacationing in a beautiful location! Go for a hike, swim in the ocean, or explore a new city on foot.
Choose activities that you enjoy and that fit with your vacation destination. If you are visiting a city, take advantage of the opportunity to walk or bike around and explore. If you are traveling to a beach location, take advantage of the opportunity to go swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.
Make use of hotel amenities. Many hotels have gyms and pools that you can use for your workouts. If your hotel doesn't have a gym, see if they have any fitness equipment that you can use in your room, such as a yoga mat or resistance bands.
Get the whole family involved. Vacations are a great time to bond with loved ones. So why not add them in your workout routine? Go for a walk, run together, play beach volleyball, or take a dance class.
Use your downtime wisely. Even if you're not the most active person, there are still ways to incorporate physical activity into your vacation. Take a walk after dinner, do some stretches while watching TV, or go for a light jog on the beach.
Final Thoughts
Most importantly, have fun! Remember that working out should be enjoyable, so don't take it too seriously. Find activities that you enjoy and that make you happy. If you're not having fun, you will not stick with it.
Other posts we think you might like…
