Going on vacation in the summer is a great way to take a break - no need to focus on work, chores or your other daily responsibilities. While it may be tempting to disconnect entirely and forget all of your usual routines, some of your real-world habits should continue while you're away from home, like your workout regime.
Getting regular exercise is essential for staying healthy, so you can't really afford to take time off from any physical activity just because you're on the road. But if you're used to using gym equipment to get your heart rate up? Going out of town can make it a little more challenging to maintain your typical schedule. Try adapting your workout routine with some of these tips while you're on the road:
Get Your Cardio in Anywhere
Are you used to hopping on the elliptical or treadmill to get your cardio workouts in? While the machinery may make it easier to track your miles, you can get a run or brisk walk in pretty much anywhere. Wake up early to go for a jog on the trails near your campsite, or pack up your travel companions for a day-long hike. Even just walking in the sand on your beach getaway can provide a great workout. Roam New Roads adds that when you start your day with some brisk cardio, it can help energize you and leaves the rest of the day open for you to make other plans.
Many of your favourite water activities, like kayaking or swimming, are good workouts as well.
Choose Engaging Activities
Sometimes, getting exercise can feel more like a chore than entertainment, but many of your vacation activities can be a great way to get a workout in. Why rely on the gym's rowing machine when you can go kayaking during your camping trip, or get in a game of beach volleyball outside of your seaside resort? From swimming to running around outside with your kids to taking your dog for plenty of long, leisurely walks, it's easy to combine your fun time with heart-healthy physical activity.
This can also be a great time to learn a new hobby, too. If you're staying at a campground or beach community with a recreation center, look to see if they offer lessons and rentals for local sports. Try your hand at rock climbing, or learn how to wind surf. You'll be so busy absorbing information on how to succeed at your new activity that you won't even realize you're working out!
Stop to stretch and do light exercises when you're on a long road trip.
Take Breaks From Your Road Trip
Staying active while you're at a cabin with friends or camping in a tent in the mountains may seem intuitive, but what if you're trapped in the car for a long road trip? Your body will thank you if you take the time to get off the road and get some exercise in from time to time!
Best Health Magazine recommends you take just a few minutes to do some workouts or stretches during your trip. Get in the grass at a rest stop to do some sit-ups, push-ups or burpees. Use park benches to do tricep dips, or go for a quick jog. Even while you're in the car, rotate your ankles, twist your back and stretch your arms over your head to keep your blood flowing and improve your posture.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation adds that there are a number of exercises you can do without any equipment. Consider packing just a lightweight resistance band to give you even more options without weighing down your luggage.
Going on vacation doesn't mean you should take a break from your health. Find fun ways to incorporate activity into your trip to keep up with your workout routine.