We obviously value and enjoy the experience of travel more than most. But it’s important to be realistic about a difficulty you are likely to experience while on the road – maintaining exercise & fitness while travelling. Nightly dinners sampling rich local cuisines; long cross country flights, car & bus rides; late nights out on the town; and a general lack of access to your fitness amenities can all take a toll on your physical health on the road.
Fret not though, below we have your solutions for maintaining your health while simultaneously experiencing your travel destination.
Go for a Run
Instead of sitting for the day on a hop on, hop off bus, choose a neighborhood to explore by foot. This will allow you to gain a greater appreciation of the neighborhood as you experience it first hand while simultaneously working up a sweat. Take note of any cool cafes, shops, or attractions you want to return to post shower.
‘Join’ a workout facility
Most yoga houses, gyms, and other workout facilities offer great deals for first time guests. Whether it be your first visit free, 2 weeks unlimited at a budget rate, or any other sign-up incentive, you can usually find your workout fix at a budget rate while on the road. (*It may sometimes require a bit of ‘flexibility’ in your personal narrative – facilities are more interested in catering towards individuals they see as potential clients in the future).
Swim
Travelling near an ocean, lake, river, or any other body of water? Throw a pair of goggles into that backpack! You no doubt already have your bathing suits packed, swimming is a great way to get the heart rate up in a location where you will want to visit anyways.
Be Active
There are some museums that are must visits; some attractions which cannot be skipped, but don’t get sucked into one tourist activity after the other. Go on a bike ride, hike a mountain, join a pickup game of the local sport being played in the park (kick it up a notch with some pushups and situps in said park following the match). These are all activities which will enhance the experience of your trip while adding some cardio activity into your routine
Go Grocery Shopping
Not related to physical activity, but rather what you’re eating on the road. We love experiencing the local cuisine as much as anyone. But eating 3 meals out a day is both expensive and usually quite heavy. Pick up some fruits, nuts, vegetables, snacks, etc. from the local supermarket, and try to eat 1 – 2 meals/day at ‘home’. You’ll feel better and it will make your meals out that much more rewarding.
For more recommendations on how to stay fit while travelling, or to have a trip itinerary put together for you including exercise and fitness, contact Evolve Tours.
