How to Exercise While Travelling?

I have written about home workouts before because well, personally I enjoy working out that way. There’s no-one watching you and you don’t have to find the time or the childcare to do it. However, the downsides are that you’ll have less equipment at home and no instructor to correct or motivate you. So perhaps you may prefer group exercise or working out down the gym.

We are all different and all like to do different types of workouts. Some people like cycling or running, some like yoga or pilates and some enjoy dance (like zumba). Most of my friends who workout regularly like going to the gym where they are more likely to exercise than they would at home.

My favourite type of workout is HIIT (high intensity interval training) and I also like a bit of weight or resistance training. But I’m certainly not ripped! I just need to keep myself moving and that’s what I enjoy. There’s so many ways to exercise, so when you’re without the gym you can always find ways to exercise while travelling.

 

Related Post: Home Workout Plan

 

Staying Fit When You’re Away

If you’re a bit of a gym bunny and enjoy using the machines and weights, or like to attend a class regularly, it can be difficult to get back into the swing of things when you take a holiday. Not only have you taken a break from your routine, but you might be indulging on good food and beverages. Which, whilst away is perfectly acceptable. But the guilt might be hanging over you, or in my case, the bulge!

So what can you do to stay fit and even find time to exercise whilst you’re on holiday? That depends on where you are, what you have access to and what you can take with you.

The Adventure Holiday

So this is a no-brainer. You’ve picked an active vacation, meaning you’re on the move a lot. You might be doing water sports, hiking, mountaineering, or a combination of different activities. In that case, there’s no need to think about working out if that’s what you’re doing all day long. Keep yourself hydrated and well nourished and think of all those calories you’re burning!

 

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Package Holiday Abroad

I love an all inclusive holiday. We don’t do them very often, so when we do it’s great. Someone else has cooked and there’s access to drinks and bar snacks all day. Fantastic.

So how do you avoid piling on the pounds and feeling unfit by the end of it?

• Spend time in the pool

It’s right there, so use it. Play in it with the kids, join in with the activities the reps put on and simply swim. Swimming is great for using all the muscles and supporting your body weight. Take advantage of what is available.

 

 

• Play on the beach

Playing games on the beach is a great way to keep fit. If you didn’t pack your frisbee then have a look in the beach shop. You’ll no doubt find balls and cricket sets. They’ll be something where you’re staying. Some beaches also have volley ball nets where you could have a go (or join in with an existing team).

Other games available may include: Limbo, crazy golf, kite flying, going on a pedalo, bat and ball games or burying each other in the sand! Digging a massive hole can be hard work…

 

 

• Going on day trips

Heading out for the day and walking around will certainly help with your fitness levels. If there are steep hills or plenty of steps to climb then even better!

• Water activities 

Activities such as snorkelling or diving tend to be available. Again, great for keeping active.

 

 

The City Break

If you are visiting a city then the chances are you’ll be walking around all day. Some cities have steep hills or steps to climb (Florence is just one example).

You may go inside a church or cathedral, or even a castle with plenty of steps to climb.

If you are near a beach or have access to a pool (or even a gym) then you could also use those facilities to stay fit. Take advantage of what you can use. Quick tip: Remember to pack your trainers!

Then of course, if you venture out for the evening into the town, the walk will also help!

 

 

Staying in a House/Cottage/Villa

I have been known for taking gym equipment on holiday with me, but you have to be practical with what you can actually pack in your suitcase.

If you’re flying then obviously you can’t really pack weights. But resistance bands are great as they are small and there are loads of workouts you can do with them. If you’re driving then you could probably fit a kettle bell or two in the car. Last year, we drove to the south of France, and that is exactly what I did!

Staying in a private house means you can make use of the space without annoying other guests (unless you annoy the people you are holidaying with!).

Use the indoor space and if you’re lucky enough to have outdoor space too, then you can do some circuits and weights. Make yourself a program and use the timer on your phone.

Of course, if you have a private pool as well, you can have a swim at the end of your workout. Perfect in hot weather!

 

 

Going for an Early Morning Run

If you have remembered your running shoes, then you could head out early doors if you wish for a run. Find a beach, a park or some countryside and get your workout done before the day starts.

Check Out What’s Going On

Get the whole family involved in any activities that will keep you moving. Sports, adventures, splash parks or zips wires. Explore what there is to offer where you’re staying.