Tips for Maintaining Your Health While Traveling

We often hear this question: “How can I stay active while traveling?” It’s a valid concern because a week on the road can disrupt your workout and nutrition plans if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips to help you stay active during your travels!

Long road trips can be tough for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. Sitting in a car for hours might not sound appealing, but there are plenty of ways to get some exercise!

Instead of just using your phone for games, turn it into a fitness tool. There are many apps that can guide you through great exercise routines. For instance, GymSurfing can help you find nearby gyms and give you prices for one-day passes. Or try Power20 for a quick 20-minute workout.

Even if you’re stuck in the car, you can still stay active. Bring along some small dumbbells and do bicep curls while sitting. Just prop your elbow on your knee and lift and lower the weight. Don’t forget to stretch—roll your shoulders or stretch your neck while you drive.

Make your trip more enjoyable by finding activities to break up the drive. Look for trails, parks, lakes, and festivals along your route. If you’re traveling across the U.S., you’ll find plenty of beautiful spots to be active. For example, if you’re driving from the northeast to the southeast, find a beach to jog along. Use your GPS to locate parks for walking, even in urban areas.

On cross-country trips, make frequent stops at rest areas to walk the trails or take a break to camp and go for a bike ride or hike, especially in scenic spots like Lake Tahoe or the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy the beauty around you and take a break from driving!

If you’re stopping at hotels, fitness DVDs can provide quick workouts before you start exploring. Just pop a DVD into your laptop for a 30-minute session. There are many options available, from yoga to boxing, to keep your workouts varied.

Hotels with gyms are a great option if you can use them. If not, get creative: do jumping jacks at rest stops, use stairs instead of elevators, and do push-ups and sit-ups each night, gradually increasing the number you do.

When visiting a new city, challenge yourself to walk instead of driving. Staying active on road trips is challenging but doable with a bit of creativity. Don’t abandon your exercise routine just because you’re traveling!