For most of us vacation means a break from the routine. It also usually means plenty of time for relaxation, family, friends, fun and food. With so much going on your fitness routine may go on a vacation, too. Sometimes, that’s okay. There is nothing wrong with taking a planned or earned fitness break. In fact, breaks can aid in recovery and help you return to your routine stronger and more motivated. Other times, a break is not warranted. You may be in the middle of preparing for a big race or worried about losing ground on your budding routine. Not to worry. You really can work fitness into vacation fun. Try one or more of the following tips to help you stay on track even on the laziest vacation days.
Skip the rental car
One of the best things about vacation is getting an up close look at the local customs, neighborhoods and people. Whether you are traveling just to the next state or leaving the country altogether, why not skip the car and hit the street on your feet? Not only will you save money, you will burn a few calories and enhance your vacation experience. Add in a few walking or biking tours and you can skip your work out for the day guilt free.
Choose a hotel with a 24-hour fitness center
Baggage fees being what they are you aren’t likely to bring along yoga mats or hand weights, but you can make room for fitness gear. Choosing a hotel with a 24-hour fitness center gives you the flexibility to work out anytime that works for you. Don’t worry about doing your full workout if you can’t or don’t want to take the time. You can realize important health benefits working out just 20 minutes three times a week.
Hit the pool or the lake
Who says you can’t combine fun and fitness? A few laps in the pool can burn just as many calories whether you call it working out or hanging out.
Try a destination vacation
Combine your fitness and training with your vacation. Why not travel to your marathon destination with your training buddies. There are a number of beautiful race courses in every imaginable locale. Have motivation, will travel.
Plug into exercise TV
Most hotels and lodging sites have Wi-Fi and/or cable. Find a yoga or Pilates program you can do right from the comfort of your room. Get your family to join you and keep the feeling of togetherness going. Too much togetherness? A fitness break can help you settle down and get centered so you can patiently enjoy your family.
Make fitness your vacation goal
Hiking, boating, ski trips and the like are perfect ways to keep moving. The best part is you don’t even feel like you are exercising. You get the benefits and the fun.
Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Look for small ways to keep moving that don’t interrupt your vacation feel. In fact, when you keep moving you may just be surprised to find when you return home that the scale did not move a bit in spite of all your vacation treats.
