Traveling is one of the biggest obstacles to a regular exercise commitment. Not only does it upset the regular routines we’ve established, but it also means we often find ourselves without gym access and without the time to squeeze in a workout. When it comes to holiday travel, as many of us know, the added temptation of rich foods, sweet treats, and calorie-bomb cocktails make it extra difficult to stick to healthy habits. Here are a few of our favorite healthy traveling tips and tricks to avoid the pitfalls while away from home:
- Get thee to the Grocery! One of the biggest obstacles to healthy eating while traveling is restaurants. Whether it’s the “I’m on vacation” mentality or simply not being able to choose where and when you’re eating, traveling can result in thousands of unwanted calories. Avoid this by finding a grocery store near where you’re staying and stocking up on some healthy options. Dried fruits, nuts and snack bars (just beware of the sugar content!) are great options to keep snacking healthy, and if you have access to a refrigerator or kitchenette, try preparing at least one meal per day at “home”.
- Scope the Fitness Scene! No matter where you’re headed, chances are your favorite workout is one Google search away. If you’re a crossfitter, look up a local gym. Search for a nearby studio if you’re a spin junkie or a yogi. Better yet, make the most of your surroundings. Near a beach? Sign up for a surf, kayak or paddleboard lesson! Or, take advantage of free drop-ins and promotions for out-of-towners at local gyms and studios.
- No Equipment? No Problem! When in doubt, go equipment-free. Sometimes, a good, old fashioned hotel-room workout is just what the doctor ordered. Even if your regular routine involves weight machines or other gym equipment, take the opportunity to switch it up with a bodyweight workout. Remember that you can get in a good workout just about anywhere by combining things like pushups, sit-ups, squats, and sprints. Bonus points for packing resistance bands—these little wonders fit easily into a suitcase and can enhance just about any workout!
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! One of the biggest travel no-no’s is forgetting to drink water. Between the busy itinerary and lack of a regular routine, it can be easy to forget this most basic principle. Pack a reusable water bottle and take it with you everywhere. Be sure to refill it several times each day. And remember, if you’re traveling to a hotter or more humid climate than you’re accustomed to, you’ll need to drink extra water throughout the day to maintain your hydration—especially if you’re planning to workout.
- Walk Everywhere! There’s no better way to explore a new place than on-foot. Not only will you take in more of the city’s sights and sounds, but you’ll also help walk off those extra drinks and desserts! So instead of taking a taxi from your hotel to dinner, or from one museum to another, ask a local for his/her favorite suggestions within walking distance. Or, if you’re in the sightseeing mood, opt for a walking tour instead of a bus tour—that way you won’t feel so bad about indulging in the city’s tasty treats.
Do you have any favorite healthy traveling tips that you rely on? We would love to hear them in the comments below!
P.S.
If you are a trainer that likes to give your clients a little extra bang for their buck, consider putting together a travel bag for them! This could contain a set of workout bands, accompanied by 2 or 3 short workouts. You can loan them out as needed to clients for business or holiday travel, and clients can stay committed to their exercise, making their return to their regular sessions with you even easier.
