5 Ways To Stay Fit While On Vacation

Memorial Day Weekend is considered the beginning of the summer vacation season… so welcome to summer everyone! I’m sure many of you have plans you’re looking forward to, whether it’s a beach day, family vacation, or solo time. I encourage you all to take some time off if you can—it’s been a tough year already, and a tough few years before that. 

Something else I encourage you all to do is, if you do go on vacation, try to stick to your healthy habits. You may be thinking: “But isn’t the point of a vacation to take a break from real life?” And trust me, I get that. But living a healthy lifestyle isn’t a part-time gig, and if you stray too far from the path, you may not be happy with where you end up.

Thankfully, with a few tweaks here and there, you can maintain your healthy lifestyle and continue working towards your goals if you have them, all while enjoying your vacation to the fullest. Read on to get my five tips for staying healthy while away on vacation. 

1. Do Some Research Ahead Of Time

Before you leave town, or perhaps while you’re looking at accommodations, do a little research about the facilities in and around your hotel. Is there a gym? A walking path? Beach access? Some hotels offer fitness classes (think beach yoga, water aerobics, etc.), which can be a fun way to switch up your workout routine. If where you’re staying has no such facilities, see if there’s a gym nearby that offers day passes. You want to know what you’re working with before you get there so you can prepare and pack accordingly. 

2. Get Your Steps In

Even though the PJW Spring Walking Challenge is done, I urge you to keep up your daily walking habit! I’m a huge fan of going for long walks on vacation, especially if I’m somewhere with a beach. You can go with friends, family, or by yourself. It’s a nice way to fit in some alone time if you’re traveling with a big group, or get yourself from A to B while saving money on transportation. 

3. Embrace A New Activity

Trying new activities on vacation is SO much fun, and some activities can stand in for your daily workout. Try renting a bike, going kayaking, or trying your hand at surfing. Many rental shops offer lessons, so keep an eye out for activities that look appealing to you. You can even turn it into a group activity for even more fun and memories. 

4. Get In The Pool!

Lounging by the poolside is a common activity during vacation. Similar to how we’re encouraged to get up from our desks every half hour, try to hop in the pool every 30 minutes or so! If you’re not a strong swimmer or don’t like swimming laps, you can wade into the water above your waist and then walk through it. Getting in the pool will ensure that you’re not being overly sedentary during the day, and it can provide a moderate, low-impact workout. 

5. Do Your Workout First Thing In The Morning 

If there is indeed a gym where you’re staying, I recommend getting your workout done first thing in the morning. You’re less likely to make excuses in the morning, and you won’t miss out on any fun activities that the day brings. (You could even get a 30 minute workout in before your travel companions wake up, if you’re someone who’s prone to FOMO.)

While most of us can find excuses not to work out while on vacation, I hope this summer, you’ll see taking care of your body as a reason TO work out. Look for those opportunities to move, and above all, enjoy your vacation!

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Xo, 

Renata