Vacationing Without the Extra Baggage!

Vacations usually mean a two-week hiatus from physical activity and fitness but it doesn’t

have to. There are many ways that you can fit in a workout without disrupting the leisurely

vacation that you have been craving all year.

 1. Reset Your Expectations

You won’t be able to do an entire workout or keep your full regime while vacationing.

That’s why it’s called vacation. Time to relax, but for people like me pretty much obsessed

with working out something is better than nothing. This is why you don’t set unrealistic

expectations for yourself. Remember that accomplishing just 40 to 50 percent of what you

normally do is better than nothing.

2. Do Your Homework

Before you even leave town, research the hotel you are staying at and make sure they have

a workout facility or at least around your hotel. Some hotels offer fitness classes, gyms, even

walking programs. Also, check for nearby parks with jogging trails or local gyms with day

passes.

3. Pack It Up

Your suitcase will easily allow room for a resistance bands and a jump rope. Use the

resistance band for upper and lower body strength-training moves. The jump rope provides

an intense cardiovascular workout in a short bout of time.

4. Carry a Load

Instead of packing one large suitcase with rollers, try distributing your luggage between two

smaller suitcases. Then, balance the weight of the two cases on each side of your body as

you carry your bags through the airport. Your upper torso will feel the burn.

5. Take Some Steps

Strap on a pedometer and count your steps each day. Aim for 10,000 steps per day as you

trek your way through your destination’s tourist sites.

6. Take a Detour

You can start at the airport. Take the stairs instead of the escalators. If you arrive early to the airport take walk around the different store. Especially with long flights, you’ll be sitting for a while. If your vacation involves a long road trip, plan a day for a hike along the way. Check with the parks or forestry service in the areas along your route to find a trail that fits your fitness level.

7. Get Adventurous

Rent a bike, kayak, or surfboard. Many rental shops also offer lessons. Try something new

on vacation, and burn a few calories while you’re at it.

8. Make a Splash

Lounging by the pool is common activity during vacation. So, while you’re lounging, hop in

the pool every half-hour for a swim. If you’re not a strong swimmer, try walking through water

that is higher than waist deep. The simple act of moving against the water’s resistance will

provide a moderate workout.

9. Catch Up With Family

Many vacations involve visiting relatives, near and far. This year, instead of chatting about

the latest news over chips and salsa, invite Aunt Sue for an evening stroll around the

neighborhood. Enjoy some quality time with your family while doing something good for your

body at the same time.

10. Come Prepared

Check the weather for your vacation destination and be sure to bring comfortable workout

gear. The last thing you need is one more reason to ditch your workout plans. That changes

everything.