Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, exercising on the road is difficult. A strange environment, an altered schedule, and even a little bit of jet lag can make exercise unappealing, but we’re here to help! Before you neglect exercise for the duration of your trip, check out these 5 tips to help you stay active while traveling.
Plan Ahead
Plan to succeed! If your hotel has a gym, call the front desk to find out which equipment is available. If your accommodations don’t include a fitness center, talk to the concierge or go on-line to find fitness studios, gyms, or walking/running trails in the area. Participating in the local fitness community is also a great way to appreciate regional culture and make new friends!
Be Ready for Action
Traveling, especially for work, can be hectic. Be ready for action by wearing (or carrying) athletic shoes, breathable clothing, and a pair of headphones. Having proper attire on-hand can help you squeeze in a few minutes of exercise between meetings. If you prefer to workout in the privacy of your hotel room, pack a resistance band, jump rope, or light dumbbells and use your smartphone or laptop to access workout videos that require little-to-no equipment.
Utilize Layovers
That long layover doesn’t have to be a waste of time. Many major airports now offer upscale gyms and yoga studios – right inside the terminal! If your airport doesn’t offer a dedicated fitness area, lace up your sneakers and take a brisk walk. You’ll get a great workout and relieve some of that travel-induced stress!
Explore Your New Surroundings
Get out and explore! Wherever you roam, there are ample opportunities to get active and soak up the culture. If you’re traveling to a city, take a walking tour, explore the museums, or just sightsee on foot. If your destination is more remote, get outdoors and discover the local terrain. You may even be able to try something new, such as kayaking, rock climbing, or skiing. Don’t forget to ask the locals for suggestions.
Be Kind to Yourself
Even the most relaxing vacation can interfere with your workout routine. If you can’t find a dedicated time to exercise, focus on staying active by incorporating activity into your day whenever possible. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. If you miss your workout for one day or throughout the entire trip, simply plan to return to your routine as soon as possible. Your body will thank you!
VHPGO is here to help you stay active, anywhere, anytime. We offer live fitness classes, a media library packed with workout videos, and access to our Virtual Fitness Specialists. Log-on and discover all the VHPGO has to offer!
