top of page

How to Stay Active & Exercise on Vacation: 3 Easy Tips for Keeping Your Fitness Routine in Check



 

Over 40 woman standing next to a bike while on vacation

Let me be upfront with you. Working out while on vacation isn’t something I usually do. In fact, a trip I took earlier this year was the first time I ever used the hotel fitness facilities. I have thought about working out while on vacation in times past, and I thought it was a good idea, but I wasn’t quite interested. It didn’t seem like fun (I mean I’m on vacation) and it also seemed inconvenient. To be honest, the only reason I did it months ago is because I was in the middle of a walking challenge, and I was committed. And maybe that’s the key word I’m looking for, commitment.

 

Typically, when I set my mind to something I am disciplined and committed enough to accomplish the goal. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not perfect but some things are just a part of my nature. So, in this new journey to move my body as much as I can, I find myself thinking about the opportunities I have to do so. On my recent trip to Savannah and South Carolina, I decided to try hard to make the effort to have some form of a workout at least a few days during the week, and here are a few tips I had to apply in order to make this idea of staying active, and trying to exercise while on my vacation a reality.

 


Over 40 black woman walking on treadmill while on vacation

Be Intentional - out the gate you have to make up in your mind that being active while on vacation is what you want to do. I say this because it starts at home and during the packing process. This is what has messed me up most every time I have had the best of intentions. When I am packing for a trip, it can be daunting, and the last thing I want to do is add workout clothes to my suitcase. Well, as I was packing for this trip, I made sure I had room, and I made sure I packed workout gear for at least three days. I did start to stress a little about what to do with the smelly clothes and transporting them back home, but I decided not to worry about that and just be prepared.

 

This is also the time you’re going to want to consider how you’re going to workout. Will it be at a gym, in your room or outdoors? If it is a space where you can use a little equipment, consider packing a light piece of equipment like workout bands. They don’t take up a lot of space, and you’ll get some resistance during your workout away from home. You’re also going to want to make sure the hotel or resort you’re staying at has an exercise facility. Now, don’t be discouraged if they don’t because rest assured you have other options if they do not.

 


Two bicycles side by side I rode on vacation

Consider Different Forms of Working Out – Sometimes you’re not going to want to lift weights and that’s ok. I’m dealing with that a lot nowadays, but remember those other options I mentioned you having? Wherever you’re traveling consider other means of moving your body. I’m really enjoying walking right now, so I like to find out how walkable a city is when I’m visiting. In New York last year I got in about 50,000 steps over the course of three days. I really don’t think I’ve ever walked that much in my life before then. If you’re in the mountains or visiting National Parks, how about a hiking tour? If the beach is your thing, then go ahead and take a stroll or jog along the ocean. During my recent trip to Savannah, I booked a bike tour as a way to see the city and get in some exercise while having fun. See, I told you there were options.

 

Invite Others to Join In – Sometimes an exercise buddy is just what you need so why not ask them to workout with you. When I visited Jamaica, I was very interested in the yoga on the beach session the resort offered. I didn’t want to do it by myself, so I asked the ladies who were with me to join in. They were hesitant, but in their defense, it was at 6 in the morning, but two of them showed up. We actually had a great time, and I was so glad I did it. On my trip to Cincinnati a couple of months ago, I took an evening walk and my daughter joined right in while I finished up my step goal for the day. Those little requests I made helped make things a little easier for me to exercise on vacation.


Picture off resort fitness center I used on vacation.

Listen, I’m not saying it’s easy, but with a little intention and commitment we can totally do this every time. So, grab your gear, grab a friend, and think about how you want to show up and get your body moving on your next trip. What’s your favorite way to workout and stay active while on vacation?

1 Comment


Fantastic tips my friend! And I love your words of wisdom - commitment.

Like
bottom of page