When you’re a frequent traveler, maintaining your fitness routine and staying healthy can be a challenge. Between jet lag, disrupted sleep patterns, and unhealthy food options, it’s essential to develop a solid strategy that will help keep you on track. After all, traveling doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the well-being that you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Here are three tips to help you maintain your fitness while on the go:
1. Focus on maintenance, not progression
While it may be tempting to take advantage of your time away from home to push your limits, travel may not be the best time to do so. Instead, focus on maintaining your current fitness level. Your body is likely already dealing with stress from work and travel, and pushing too hard could lead to injury or illness.
Upon arriving at your destination, one surefire way to combat jet lag is to head outside and get some exercise. This will help reset your internal clock and provide a much-needed energy boost. Whether it be jogging, swimming, or hiking, it’s essential to incorporate a form of physical activity, so being indoors doesn’t prolong your jet lag.
Walking is another excellent way to maintain your fitness while traveling. In cities like New York, for example, consider skipping the subway and walking to your destination instead. You might be surprised at how many miles you rack up throughout the day.
2. Look for outdoor training opportunities
There’s no need to spend hours searching for a gym while on vacation or a business trip. Many outdoor spaces, such as parks and beaches, provide ample opportunity for a workout. Focus on exercises that utilize your own body weight, such as push-ups, lunges, and squats. Not only will this save you time and money, but it will also allow you to make the most of your natural surroundings.
If you know you’ll be near a beach, try packing an empty sandbag in your luggage. Upon arrival, fill it with sand or dirt to use as a makeshift weight for exercises like shoulder presses and lunges. When it’s time to head home, simply empty the bag and dispose of it.
3. Prioritize good nutrition
Making smart food choices while traveling is crucial, especially when airport food options tend to be loaded with unhealthy, processed ingredients. Be mindful of what you eat and drink while on the go, and try to stick to low-carb snacks and meals whenever possible.
Intermittent fasting can also be a helpful tool for staying healthy on the road. By skipping meals when high-quality options are scarce, you can avoid succumbing to the allure of fast food.
To find healthier alternatives at the airport, you may need to hunt for them. Keep an eye out for places offering nutrient-dense salads, wraps, or protein bowls, and always prioritize hydration by regularly drinking water throughout your journey.
Incorporating these three simple tips into your travel routine can help you maintain, and maybe even improve, your fitness level while on the road. By focusing on maintenance, training outdoors, and prioritizing good nutrition, you’ll be better equipped to handle the stresses of travel and return home feeling refreshed and recharged. Happy trails!
