9 Ways to Stay Fit While Traveling

Taking regular vacations isn’t just rewarding, it’s essential for your mental and spiritual well-being.  Although we tend to skip out on our regularly scheduled lives when we’re on a getaway, any gap in your fitness routine can really cause more harm than good.

No matter where you are in your fitness journey (starting out, working towards a new goal, or simply maintaining), keeping fit while traveling is key.  Here are my tips to keep it up!

1. Book a fit vacation
Before you book your hotel, check and see if they have a fitness center or lap pool.  Select the hotel that fits your budget and health needs.

2. Look for nearby classes
Being in a different part of the world doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of ways to keep up with your regular workouts.  I find that it’s really fun to checkout my favorite classes (spin, yoga, etc.) with new instructors and new perspectives.  Some of my favorite classes have been on vacation, because I can totally check out and focus on my workout.

3. Bring exercise bands
Resistance bands are the cheapest, lightest, and easiest option for travel.  Pack them in your carry-on for workouts on the go!

4. Don’t forget your workout clothes
Who doesn’t love traveling in yoga pants??  They’re comfortable and guarantee you’ll have an outfit to work out in.  Double the chances of you staying fit by traveling in your favorite workout gear.

5. Take laps in the airport
Airports can be a huge waste of time, or a great way to lock in mileage.  Bring a rolling suitcase and take laps.  Bonus points if you can find a quiet area to do squats, lunges, and chair dips

6. Walk whenever possible
If you love to explore, you should love to walk.  You will experience more of a destination by hitting the road.  Opt to walk during the daytime (if it’s safe).  Most hotels will help you select a safe route.

7. Long flight? Don’t forget to stretch
Sitting for long periods of time can cause stiffness, poor circulation, and fatigue.  Take 5-10 minutes after you land or during your layover to do some leg, back, and shoulder stretches.

8. Bring healthy snacks
If you’re road tripping, don’t forget a couple ice packs and a cooler.  This will help you store healthier foods like veggies, fruit, and lean proteins.  Look for sugar-free protein bars, almonds, and veggie chips.

9. Stay hydrated
Travel is dehydrating, especially if you’re flying.  Keep a reusable water bottle handy to refill on the go.  It’s an easy reminder to keep drinking and it’s better for the environment!

Sarah Ann Kelly, Fabletics Master