Traveling shouldn’t cause a break in your workout routine. Whether you are traveling for work or for pleasure, you can stay on track with your workout with just a little creativity and some motivation. Try these tips when you are traveling and keep your fitness goals in your sights.
Pack your fitness gear.
If you leave your tennis shoes at home you might feel justified in saying that you can’t work out. However, if you pack your workout gear you have no excuse. Pack a duffel or slip your exercise items like workout shoes, exercise clothing, resistance tubing, swimsuit, and your music with headphones into your suitcase and resolve to stay on track.
Exercise along the way.
If you are doing a lot of traveling, find ways to get moving. For instance, if you are flying, walk around the terminal during your layover. If you are driving, stop along the way and walk around a bit. When you start looking for ways to get a little exercise in you’ll be surprised at home many opportunities there really are.
Find a gym.
If you are a member of a national gym there may be one in the area where you are. Many times they will allow you to work out even though they are not your home gym. If you are a member of a local gym, check out some of the national gyms or the local YMCA. Often they will give week passes for or for a small fee.
Choose a hotel with a gym.
Many hotels have gyms that are free for guests. Book your room and make sure you hit that gym each morning, even if you just walk on the treadmill. Ask at the front desk what times the gym is less populated, that way you can avoid having to wait for a machine.
Explore the area.
Wander around cities or visit local trails and parks. Bring a map with you so you don’t get lost, especially if you are walking around town. This allows you to get a feel for the flavor of the area you are visiting while you exercise. The staff at the hotel where you are staying can also recommend routes that are safe for running or walking so don’t be afraid to ask.
Make healthy eating choices.
If you can book a hotel with a kitchen area this is probably your best bet. Still, it seems that travel and dining in restaurants go hand in hand. When you find yourself in a restaurant, try to make as many healthy choices as possible. For instance, most portions in restaurants are huge, at least enough for two meals – usually more. When you get your meal, have the waiter bring you a go box at the same time. Immediately put half of your meal into the box and close it. That way you can control your portions and not completely lose control.
Use bodyweight exercises.
So, you forgot you workout gear, no big deal. You can’t get out of working out that easily. Get up a little early and take just 30 minutes to a few bodyweight exercises like jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches, planks, lunges, squats, and burpees. You’ll feel amazing afterward and won’t disrupt your workout schedule.
How do you stay fit while traveling? Share some of your favorite tips with us in the comments below!