8 Fun Tips to Stay in Shape on Vacation
But it’s vacation, why do I need to stay in shape???? Mainly because you’ll hate yourself when you get back home and feel the scale is mocking you. No need to worry, you can do this and still enjoy and indulge in your trip. Read further to learn fun tips to stay in shape on your next vacation.
Fun Ways to Stay Fit on Vacation
1) Be Realistic
You worked hard for this vacation, and you earned it. You will not feel like it’s a vacation if you restrict yourself unnecessarily. I set a goal not to gain more than one to two pounds. I would be ecstatic if I just maintained my weight. Do not plan to lose weight while on vacation.
2) Use the Gym if Available
Most hotels, resorts, and cruise ships have gyms, so the most significant obstacle will be getting yourself to go. Be sure to pack workout clothes and proper shoes to be prepared. Don’t feel the need to get fancy, you’re just going to get sweaty. Lightweight items that dry quickly are ideal.
Health Risk Tip – Use the gym if available, but don’t decide to take on strenuous machines you have not tried before while on vacation. Don’t ruin your vacation by hurting yourself on the first day in the gym.
3) Walk, Don’t Ride
Use your feet as your transportation whenever possible and safely. My husband and I love to explore as much as we can on foot. It allows you to feel more like a local and see things you might not see on a tour with specific stops and locations. Walking helps achieve our exercise goals while visiting new places. This is one of my favorite fun tips for staying in shape on vacation. Not to mention it’s a money saver too!
4) Ride a Bicycle
Take a Bike Ride
Nowadays, many cities offer easy access to bike rentals. You can rent bikes inexpensively for short periods and move freely around town. It’s easy to rent a bike from the stands with a credit card and return to any location in the city when you are finished or your time is up. Then quickly pick up another bike when ready to move again. Some hotels like Marriott include bikes in their resort amenity fee.
5) Hiking & Running Trails
Most popular vacation destinations around the world offer beautiful hiking terrain. Whether you’re staying in the mountains, in the city, or at the beach, there are always options for walking, running, and hiking trails. You can find information on trails in the United States at TrailLink and AllTrails. Both of these sites offer apps for iOS and Android devices. Traildino.com has a great map with information about trails throughout Europe.
6) Beach Yoga
For your next beach vacation, look into Beach Yoga classes. Most resorts offer beach yoga classes, and some water sports rental companies offer them as well. Of course, if you already practice yoga, invest in a compact travel mat you take anywhere you plan to go. Yoga Travel Mats, written by My Five Acres, offers some good insight into some of the options available.
7) Take the Stairs, if You Can
My husband, Jerry, and I always take the stairs whenever we can while on vacation. We started doing this the first time we took a long cruise with our daughters in 2006. The idea started as a way to keep our girls from being lazy, but soon became just something we do because it keeps us moving. Of course, I don’t recommend you go up a million flights of stairs. Instead, if you have to go up or down two or three floors, try the stairs instead. The stairs are an excellent workout for your legs and give your heart and lungs a workout, too. That being said, if you are not physically able to climb stairs, please disregard this section.
8) Don’t Forget to Dance!
You’re on vacation, you’re supposed to have fun, right?? Well, dancing is most definitely fun, and it is a wonderful way to get exercise. Go ahead and join the party at the resort and find a local dance club to dance the night away! Dancing to me is 68one of the best fun tips to stay in shape while on vacation.
More Ideas to Stay in Shape While Traveling
Traveling gives you the chance to try new foods, but it’s easy to overdo it. Here’s how to keep things balanced:
- Start with a Healthy Breakfast: Pick fresh fruit, yogurt, eggs, or whole-grain toast. This gives you energy and helps you make better choices later.
- Snack Smart: Carry nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars for healthy snacks between meals. This keeps hunger in check and helps you avoid grabbing junk food.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle. Drinking enough water helps you feel your best and can curb cravings.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine in Moderation: Savor new dishes, but try not to overindulge daily. Share plates or choose lighter menu options when possible.
Final Thoughts on These Healthy Travel Tips
Staying in shape while traveling doesn’t have to feel like a chore. By adding movement to your sightseeing, joining in on group activities, and making healthy food choices, you can enjoy your trip and take care of your body. Next time you plan a getaway, remember these fun tips to stay in shape while on vacation. Have any favorite tips or stories to share? Let us know how you stay active while you explore new places!
If you’re planning a trip to Europe in the near future, check out my most recent blog, Travel Tips for First Timers to Paris. This article offers excellent tips for Paris, but the tips are relatable to most larger European cities.
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