I recently spent a week on the road and found myself very far from my normal workout routine. When I first started into the world of health and fitness, this was a loop hole for me, a way for me to get out of it because I couldn't do what I "normally" do, or workout how I wanted to. But the one big pitfall of this practice was that I always found it difficult to get going again once I returned home.
The truth is that there are lots of ways to incorporate fitness into travel - whether you're traveling for business or for pleasure, keeping moving is totally possible. Here are some options:
During my stay this past week in the Hilton Garden Inn, I found they offered "Stay Fit Kits" (free!) for in-room use. They could be used on their own or in conjunction with the Pay-Per-View exercise programs offered on TV. They include a mat, a yoga strap & bricks, light dumbbells, a medicine ball, and fitness bands, along with instructions for use (if you chose not to use with a PPV program). Inquire with your hotel to see if there are any comparable kits available.
Almost all hotels or resorts offer a fitness room. Granted they are usually far from ideal, but you can pretty consistently count on at least one treadmill and an elliptical or stationary bike. Some will have a small array of dumbbells and a bench available, or some sort of universal cable unit. You can always get some cardio in if only to keep consistent with your routine.
DVDs...most of us travel with a laptop and most will play an exercise DVD. Bring your favorite short workout and make some space on your room floor.
Pack fitness bands in your luggage. You can get a full body strength workout with bands, or even with bodyweight exercises right in your room. Need some help coming up with a plan? You know who to contact!
Travel days themselves can be difficult when we have planes to catch and we're on the go at the crack of dawn. Use long delays or layovers to get your cardio in. I often find myself stuck in Atlanta. Terminal A to Terminal E is one mile. A brisk walk down and back (no cheating and using the moving walkways) lugging your carry on is an excellent way to both pass the time and get a nice cardio workout done. Stick a pair of sneakers in your carry on to save your feet :)
If you're on vacation - you have all these options and more! Get out and explore! Go hiking, rent bikes, play tennis, go snorkeling, go outlet shopping (and walk!)...just keep moving!
There are always options. Don't use this as an excuse to stop moving and risk dropping the habit you worked hard to get into. Staying consistent, even if it's not ideal, makes getting back to your routine easier when you return from your trip. The change of pace will also do your body good!
Do you have ideas on how to stay fit while on the road? Share them here!
