How to Maintain Your Fitness Routine While Traveling
Traveling is one of the most exciting aspects of life, but it often disrupts our regular routines. For fitness enthusiasts, maintaining a workout regimen while on the go can seem challenging, especially with limited access to gym facilities or the temptation to skip workouts due to a busy travel schedule. However, I've found that with a little planning and creativity, it’s entirely possible to stay fit while enjoying the adventure of travel. Here are some tips and tricks that have worked for me over the years to maintain my fitness routine while traveling.
1. Prioritize Movement, Even on Busy Days
One of the key aspects of maintaining your fitness routine while traveling is prioritizing movement throughout the day. Even if you don’t have time for a full workout, there are plenty of opportunities to stay active. Walking around new cities, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and even standing or doing stretches during long flights or train rides can add up. For me, a recent trip to New York City reminded me of the importance of staying active. Instead of relying on taxis or subways, I made it a point to walk everywhere. Not only did it help me stay active, but I also got to explore the city in a way that I wouldn’t have if I had taken the easy route.
2. Use Your Hotel or Airbnb Gym
If your accommodation has a gym, make use of it! Hotel gyms are often equipped with basic cardio machines, weights, and other fitness essentials. In my experience, even a 20-30 minute workout on the treadmill or a quick bodyweight circuit in the gym can keep your energy levels up and help you stay consistent with your fitness goals. On one occasion, while staying at an Airbnb in Los Angeles, I was pleasantly surprised by the small but fully equipped gym they had. I took advantage of it every morning before heading out to explore the city, and it kept my fitness routine intact throughout my trip.
3. Pack Portable Workout Equipment
When traveling, it's not always feasible to access a gym or a fitness class, but you can still get a good workout with minimal equipment. I always pack resistance bands, a jump rope, and a set of small dumbbells (if I'm driving to my destination). These tools are lightweight, easy to pack, and can provide a full-body workout in a hotel room or outdoor space. During a road trip across California, I used resistance bands and bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups to stay fit. I set aside 30 minutes each day, and it felt great to maintain my strength while seeing some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
4. Make Use of Online Workout Programs
If you prefer guided workouts, online fitness programs can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a fan of yoga, pilates, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), there’s an abundance of apps and websites that offer workout routines for any level and any location. I’ve personally used apps like Nike Training Club and Daily Burn when I couldn’t find a gym or needed something that didn’t require any equipment. The best part is that these workouts can be done in your hotel room or even outdoors at a park. During a recent business trip, I did a 20-minute HIIT workout in my hotel room before a meeting, and it helped me feel energized and focused for the rest of the day.
5. Embrace Active Sightseeing
One of the best ways to stay fit while traveling is to turn sightseeing into a workout. You can hike to scenic viewpoints, bike through cities, or even take walking tours. On my last trip to Rome, I signed up for a walking tour of the historic city center, which included a trek up to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. Not only did I learn a lot about the history of the city, but I also burned plenty of calories while enjoying the beautiful architecture. Combining fitness with sightseeing makes it easier to stay active without sacrificing the fun of exploring new places.
6. Stay Consistent with Your Diet
Fitness isn't just about exercise – it’s also about fueling your body properly. Traveling often leads to indulgent meals and snacks, but staying mindful of your diet is important. I’ve found that if I plan ahead and pack healthy snacks like nuts, protein bars, and fruit, it’s easier to stay on track with my nutrition. When I visited Spain last summer, I made sure to focus on enjoying the local healthy dishes like grilled seafood, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean salads, rather than overindulging in heavier foods. Staying consistent with my nutrition helped me maintain my energy levels and fitness goals.
7. Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities
Another great way to stay fit while traveling is to embrace outdoor activities that are unique to the destination. Whether it’s surfing in Hawaii, hiking in Colorado, or skiing in the Alps, outdoor adventures are not only fun but also provide an excellent workout. I love being in nature and doing activities like kayaking, cycling, or even swimming in the ocean. On a trip to Costa Rica, I went ziplining through the rainforest and hiking to waterfalls. Not only did these activities give me a full-body workout, but they also allowed me to connect with the natural beauty of the place.
8. Get Creative with Your Workouts
Sometimes, you might find yourself in a place without a gym, or the weather might not cooperate for outdoor activities. When that happens, get creative with your workouts. I’ve done workout circuits using furniture, like squats, lunges, and tricep dips using a chair or bench. You can also do exercises like planks, mountain climbers, and burpees that require no equipment. During a trip to Paris, I didn’t have access to a gym but still managed to keep up with my fitness routine using bodyweight exercises in my hotel room. It was a great way to stay fit, and I didn’t have to worry about missing a workout.
9. Keep Your Goals in Mind
Lastly, staying focused on your fitness goals while traveling can help you stay motivated. Whether your goal is to maintain your current fitness level, lose weight, or simply feel good during your trip, reminding yourself of your goals can help keep you on track. On my last trip to the Caribbean, I kept my goal of staying fit and energized at the forefront of my mind. By setting realistic expectations and staying consistent, I felt great during the entire trip and was able to enjoy the experience without compromising my fitness.
