Staying Fit on Vacation: How to Keep Your Workout Routine While Traveling
We all know how easy it is to fall off track when we’re on vacation. Between exploring new places, indulging in delicious food, and simply unwinding, exercise can often take a backseat. But here’s the truth: staying fit on vacation doesn’t have to be hard, and it doesn’t mean spending hours in the gym. It’s all about finding ways to integrate movement into your travel schedule in a fun and stress-free way. I’ve had my fair share of vacations where I’ve managed to stick to a workout routine, and today, I want to share the top tips I’ve learned for working out while traveling.
1. Plan Ahead: Research Your Destination
Before I even pack my suitcase, I take some time to research my vacation destination. I look for hotels or accommodations that offer fitness facilities, such as gyms or outdoor exercise areas. Some resorts even provide fitness classes or offer rental bikes, which can be great for staying active. If I’m staying in a city, I check out local parks or running trails. This helps me visualize my options ahead of time so I’m not scrambling for an exercise plan once I arrive.
2. Pack Smart: Bring Travel-Friendly Gear
One of the easiest ways to stay active on vacation is by packing lightweight fitness gear that doesn’t take up much room in your luggage. Resistance bands, a jump rope, or even a portable yoga mat can fit into your suitcase without adding extra bulk. I always make sure to pack these items because they allow me to do a variety of workouts in my hotel room or on the beach. The best part? They’re easy to use and don’t require any fancy equipment!
3. Morning Workouts: The Key to Staying Consistent
On my vacations, I’ve found that early morning workouts are the key to staying consistent. Waking up before the day’s activities begin gives me the energy I need to enjoy sightseeing without feeling sluggish. I typically aim for a 20-30 minute workout that includes bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. These exercises can be done anywhere and don’t require a lot of space. Plus, the fresh morning air and quiet surroundings make the workout even more enjoyable.
4. Make it Fun: Try New Activities
Vacation is the perfect time to try new sports or activities you wouldn’t normally do. Whether it’s paddleboarding, hiking, or snorkeling, I always look for opportunities to move in a way that’s fun and exciting. For example, during my trip to Hawaii, I tried surfing for the first time. Not only was it an amazing workout, but I also got to experience something new and adventurous. By exploring different activities, I stay active without feeling like I’m forcing myself to work out.
5. Explore by Walking or Biking
One of my favorite ways to stay active while on vacation is to explore a new city or town by walking or biking. Instead of hopping in a taxi or taking public transportation, I opt to walk to my destination whenever possible. It’s a great way to get my steps in and discover hidden gems that I might have missed otherwise. If the area has bike rentals, I’ll grab a bike and pedal around the city. You’d be amazed at how much ground you can cover and how many calories you can burn just by leisurely exploring.
6. Utilize Hotel Amenities
Many hotels offer more than just a bed and breakfast. If your hotel has a pool, I recommend doing a few laps in the morning or evening. Swimming is an excellent full-body workout, and it’s often less taxing on the joints than traditional exercises. If there’s no pool, look for a fitness center or a dedicated space for stretching and yoga. I once stayed at a hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace that was perfect for a sunrise yoga session. It was an incredible way to start the day and also helped with jet lag!
7. Take Advantage of Fitness Apps and Online Workouts
If I’m traveling somewhere without access to a gym or outdoor space, I turn to fitness apps and online workout videos. There are so many great apps that offer quick, no-equipment workouts that can be done in a small hotel room. I especially love apps that offer yoga, pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These workouts are perfect when I’m short on time but still want to get my heart pumping and muscles working.
8. Stay Active During Downtime
Not every moment of vacation needs to be packed with sightseeing or lounging by the pool. When I find myself with some downtime—whether it’s waiting for a tour or relaxing at the hotel—I like to do simple stretches or a few quick exercises. Even while watching TV, I might do a set of lunges or squats during commercial breaks. These small bursts of activity add up over time, and I feel better for it.
9. Stay Hydrated and Eat Mindfully
Fitness isn’t just about exercise; nutrition plays a huge role too. During my vacations, I focus on staying hydrated and eating wholesome meals to fuel my body. I try to balance out indulgent foods with healthier options, like salads, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Drinking enough water is also key, especially when traveling to warmer destinations. Staying hydrated helps with recovery after workouts and keeps my energy levels up throughout the day.
10. Don’t Stress if You Miss a Workout
Finally, I remind myself that it’s okay if I miss a workout or two while on vacation. The most important thing is to enjoy the experience and not put too much pressure on myself. Fitness is a lifelong journey, and sometimes taking a break or embracing the vacation mode is just as important as sticking to a strict workout routine. After all, the goal of a vacation is to relax, recharge, and have fun!
In the end, the key to staying fit while on vacation is to keep it simple, flexible, and enjoyable. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so find what works for you and fits your travel style. Whether it’s through early morning workouts, fun activities, or simply moving more during the day, there are plenty of ways to stay active and feel good while on vacation.
