Summer! It means many of us will go away with our families for some much-needed rest and relaxation.
This doesn’t mean you must forego your fitness routine. Once people are in a fitness regimen, it often becomes a necessity–not only for one’s physical, but also one’s mental, well-being. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to burn some extra calories so you can indulge in a vacation-time ice cream cone, occasionally.
Staying at a Hotel:
When choosing lodging, scope out a hotel with a gym or fitness center. Most chain hotels offer a fitness room of some sort, accommodating today’s exercise enthusiasts. Often, the hotel’s fitness center is included in the nightly cost.
Even if there are no free weights/strength training machines, cardio machines like a treadmill or elliptical, will keep your heart pumping. Consider implementing body resistance exercises as well, like push-ups, planks, lunges, squat jumps, burpees, mountain climbers, etc.
If you know the hotel will not have a fitness center, do a little reconnaissance beforehand. Ask the front desk of the hotel, before you arrive (or Google search) if there is a gym in the area. Gyms in vacation spots often have affordable weekly rates for tourists.
As a last resort, you can always jog/walk outside, and/or on the beach; perform body resistance exercises like those aforementioned in your room; swim laps; go hiking; or find other outdoor activities that require some effort.
Cruising:
Going on a cruise? Think your fitness will go down the drain? Classes and group training on cruises are almost always a given. Try something new! Keep your body challenged!
Most cruise lines have a stellar training center. For an extra fee, Personal Trainers in Connecticut are frequently available.
Don’t wish to pay a premium for the above-mentioned services? Go it alone or with a friend. Cruise ship gyms abound with weight training machines, free weights, and cardio equipment. Do your own thing, so you don’t feel the guilt of partaking in that chocolate lava cake later on.
Take an excursion that requires activity. Snorkeling and scuba trips are fun and keep you moving. Some other excursions you might consider are: horseback riding tours, hiking tours, and zip lining/aerial adventure obstacle courses.
Just want to veg on a beach? See if there are beaches in walking distance, and skip the cab, bus or shuttle. Walk to and from your beach destination!
Extra tip: Resign yourself to using the stairs instead of the elevator. Especially if you’re located on the bottom deck of the ship, you will be surprised at how effective taking the stairs–exclusively, for the entire cruise –will help to keep your fitness level and burn some extra calories.
Camping:
Going on a camping trip? Swimming, walking and hiking are the most obvious ways to keep up your fitness.
Take the scenic route—especially if it’s a longer one—and it won’t even seem like exercise.
The most important thing: Be safe and have fun!