By Jessica Olsen and Lisa DeGisi
With the holidays behind us and the New Year right around the corner, you may feel like it is impossible to fit exercise into your schedule; especially if you are traveling. There is time for fitness even with unpredictable schedules, flight delays, parties and family gatherings. But believe it or not, you can find time to exercise during the “most wonderful time of the year.”
Healthy holiday traveling is all about planning. Think ahead, envision where, how, and when you can exercise before you go, and pack accordingly. Plan for success and it will be easier for you to stay on track and maintain your health. You won’t be able to stick to your normal workout routine 100% during the holidays, and that’s okay. It’s a time to recuperate and relax a bit, as well.
Here are some tips for enjoying your holiday travels without letting fitness fall by the wayside.
Try active sightseeing and fitness-related excursions
Rent a bike to explore a new city, go snowshoeing or skiing, or simply walk! Exploring new cities by foot allow you to see things you would never experience in a car.
Try out a new-to-you fitness studio.
It’s a great way to mix it up from your normal workout routine and give your body a different challenge. Most often studios will offer affordable day passes. To find a class near you, use GoRecess.com or yelp.com to check out reviews and get insider tips before you check out a workout.
Sign up for a New Year’s Day or First Night Run or Walk
First Night events can make visiting a new town for a holiday more fun. Holiday races are a great way to stay active and motivated to train during the busy season. Most cities and towns have gotten on board the holiday race and wagon; Active.com and RunningInTheUSA.com are good resources for finding races near you.
If studios aren’t an option, design your own workout
Bring resistance bands, a jump rope, a travel yoga mat, or other portable exercise equipment with you, and utilize whatever other equipment you have on hand. Get creative, use chairs for step ups and dips, turn soup cans into light weights, etc.
Incorporate fitness into your family time.
Fitness doesn’t just mean organized activity – embrace your inner kid and build a snowman, go sledding or ice skating, or play tag with your family.
Sources:
www.active.com
www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/stay-fit-while-traveling
http://www.health.com/health/video/0,,20845458,00.html
http://www.wellwellwell.com/simple-strategies-exercises-stay-fit-traveling/
