It’s hard to keep up your workout routine when you are on vacation but if you plan ahead and try to do something almost everyday you will feel great while you are away. While I am all for taking a break while you are on vacation, I think it’s more important to change it up. Use the extra time you have to get in some form of physical activity. If you are not in a regular fitness routine, vacation is the perfect time to start one. You will be motivated by the change of scenery, you will have more time for yourself, and you can explore a new area while exercising. This could jump start your fitness habits! Not only will you feel better putting on your bathing suit, you will have lots of energy!
Here are a few tips to get you going!
1. Plan ahead.
Check out your resort’s website for whether or not there is a gym on the property. If there is, then plan to use it a few days. If not, than throw an exercise band into your suitcase or make a mental plan to do some bodyweight workouts during your vacation week.
Also, check to see if it’s safe to run from your hotel and what the best path would be to take. Make sure to take a friend with you, so you are not alone and running somewhere you are not familiar with. Or rent a bike and go for a ride!
2. Do an excursion or an adventurous activity.
Think about doing an activity that allows you to see the sights while being active. Look into kayaking, hiking, biking, paddle sports or water sports, to name a few. You will have fun while working out!
3. Play a game.
Get your friends and family together for a big football game on the beach or a simple game of frisbee.
4. Get it over with in the morning.
If you are running on the beach, walking on a path, working out at the gym or even in your hotel room – the best time to do it is in the morning. After a cup of coffee on the balcony, get it done. You won’t be hot, sweaty or wet from the pool yet and it will be easier. You won’t be tempted by a lunch-time marg or an afternoon glass of sangria. You won’t be sun burned or worn out from the day yet.
If I don’t work out in the morning on vacation, I know I won’t be doing it that day. So if you want to get it done, do it early and don’t pretend it’s going to happen in the afternoon.
Who would want to leave this and go workout?
5. Be effective.
You don’t need to spend 2 hours working out or even an hour. Plan for 45 minutes or do a 20 minute interval workout one day. Do something quickly and effective so you don’t waste your time. This will increase your motivation to workout. If you plan to be in a lawn chair with your book by 9:30am. Then work out from 8:30-9 or 9:15 and get out there!
Make it fun and you will do it!
