Whether you travel for work or leisure, you may wonder how you can stay physically active when you are going to a different destination and may need extensive travel time to get there. The good news is that you can keep moving even when your goal is to relax, or you are busy with business meetings and other events.
Motivation is an important factor but planning and keeping things simple can make a positive difference in exercising during any trip. Learning some simple tips can help you approach your next travels with greater peace of mind.
Pack the Gear You Need
Packing smart is one of the first steps you need to take when planning to work out while traveling. You want to consider how you will reach your destination and make sure to check the weather forecast. Keep in mind what your luggage size is going to be too. This gives you specifics for what you can pack in addition to other clothing and items you need to bring with you.
Common exercise essentials to pack are:
- Workout clothes, including a sports bra or swimsuit if applicable
- Comfortable running shoes
- A Fitbit
- Sunscreen
- A refillable water bottle
- Earbuds or headphones
- An extra storage bag for sweaty clothes
You can also add accessories like resistance bands, jumping rope, a yoga mat, or a mobile device on which you can watch workout videos. If you don’t have space for accessories, remember that you can use your own body for strength training!
Stretch Your Legs During Transit
Whether you fly or drive, make sure to either get out of your seat on the plane or train or make regular stops if you travel by car. Stretching your legs is important for your health to alleviate muscle tension and promote adequate blood flow. If you have an airport layover that gives you time to take a lengthier stroll, go for it!
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes during your transit time, even if you need to keep another pair of shoes in a small bag to switch for once you get your destination.
Walk and Take the Stairs
Once you are at your destination, prioritize walking whenever possible. If you stay at a hotel, ask the staff for nearby trails and local parks recommendations. You can also look into taking a walking tour of the area. These are safe options to go on foot in an unfamiliar location. Walking has many benefits and is a simple but effective way to stay physically active.
Another easy tip is to take the stairs instead of the elevator, whether at your hotel, a business center, or a local monument you are visiting. Stairs boost your cardiovascular function and help build strength.
Find Workouts to Do in Your Hotel Room
If you are staying at a hotel, check their website ahead of your trip to see what amenities they offer. If they have a swimming pool or a fitness center, it can help you plan accordingly. If they don’t have either or you are unsure of what your schedule will look like, you can research workout videos that you can safely do in your hotel room.
You can find such videos on YouTube or via specialized fitness apps. If you don’t know where to start and usually work out at a gym, you could ask the trainers for recommendations. Checking what types of workouts that you would like to do in terms of activity, like high-intensity interval training or HIIT, Pilates, or yoga, and what duration you are interested in will make it easier for you to keep up with a fitness routine while traveling.
Yoga can be an effective option during travels thanks to its energizing or relaxing qualities depending on the practice you choose. Having even a short practice in the morning as a warm-up or one at night to wind down can revitalize you.
Get Enough Rest
Traveling can be exhausting, especially if you have a long transit time or go to a different time zone. Making sure to get enough sleep is important for any activity you do during your trip, including exercising.
Allowing your body to replenish its resources helps your physical and mental well-being. Enough rest will boost your immune system and increase your energy levels. If you are too tired, you should prioritize rest rather than forcing a workout. If you have worked out, rest is also helpful to optimize your results, including muscle development.
Stay Hydrated
Just like rest is vital for your health and making sure your body makes the best of your workout, drinking enough water makes a significant difference in staying active. Hydrating enough offers many benefits, including smooth digestion and headache prevention.
While you are traveling to your destination, make sure to drink water regularly and continue to stay hydrated during your stay. Water can be expensive, so using a refillable water bottle whenever possible will save you money and make sure you always have water available to drink. An adequate water intake helps curb cravings since some feelings of hunger are thirst cues.
Are you looking for professional advice to implement healthy habits in Covington, Metairie, or Harvey? Contact Soza Weight Loss today at (504) 475-9817 to schedule an appointment!