About to embark on your next travel adventure? Don't hit pause on your fitness journey just yet! We know it can be tempting to take a break during your time away, but what if instead you use the time to mix it up and try something new or different. Whether you're planning a beach escape, city exploration or mountain retreat – vacation workouts can be a blast.
Imagine jogging along the beach. Exploring new city streets by foot. Jumping into a local Orangetheory Studio. Or joining a summer fitness challenge like Push 30 from Orangetheory. Your vacation workout plan is up to you.
Should You Workout on Vacation?
As you pack your bags, you might be wondering if you should create a vacation workout plan. The answer? It depends. Regardless of whether you are new to exercise or not, taking a week off exercising won’t ruin your progress. It can be a chance to recover if that is needed.
Dr. Brittany Leboeuf, research scientist at Orangetheory, advises, “For novice exercisers, establishing a routine is key to maintaining consistency. If you've just started your fitness journey, incorporating workouts into your vacation can help solidify this habit.”
However, even seasoned gym-goers can benefit from a brief pause. Dr. Leboeuf explains, “Taking breaks from exercise can provide your body with much-needed rest, allowing for recovery and reducing the risk of burnout.”
You may find yourself doing more daily movement on vacation due to exploring a new area, walking around town, etc. In these situations, you may choose to prioritize daily movement over a structured exercise routine – which is great!
Ultimately, the decision to work out on vacation comes down to listening to your body and honoring its needs. Whether you choose to stick to your regular routine, get into one of the 1,500+ Orangetheory studios around the world, or indulge in some well-deserved rest, prioritize what feels right for you.
Maintaining Fitness on Vacation
While it can be tempting to try and stick with your at-home workout routine, vacation workouts can be your chance to recover. Dr. Leboeuf says, “It doesn’t necessarily have to be an “all or nothing” approach. If you typically workout 4-5 days a week, maybe you set a more modest goal of 2-3 times while on vacation.”
Your goal should be to find ways to keep moving, such as:
- Take a leisurely walk to explore your destination.
- Swim in the hotel pool.
- Rent bikes to tour the area.
- Have a hotel dance party!
- Find other low-impact activities that not only keep you moving but also allow you to soak in the sights and sounds of your surroundings. Dr. Leboeuf recommends aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day to reap the health benefits. “Even short bursts of exercise can improve mood, boost energy levels and enhance overall wellbeing,” she explains. Your body and mind will thank you for it!
Tips for Staying Active While Traveling
If you’re looking for some more ideas to keep active and maintain your fitness routine while traveling, consider the following tips:
- Check out local studio and gym offerings.
- Embrace the terrain for new and different outdoor workouts.
- Bring along travel-friendly fitness gear like resistance bands or a jump rope.
- Try new activities that are both physically demanding and enjoyable, like paddle boarding or rock climbing.
Most of all, remember to relax and enjoy your vacation. Balance structured exercise with leisure time activities. Find opportunities to relax, savor local cuisine and create lasting memories.
Places to Seek Out When on Vacation
While on vacation, finding the right places to stay active can make all the difference. Here are some options to consider:
- Local Gyms: Look for gyms or fitness centers near your accommodation. Many offer day passes or temporary memberships for travelers.
- Fitness Studios: Explore boutique fitness studios, such as the local Orangetheory Fitness studio.
- Outdoor Spaces: Take advantage of parks, trails, and scenic routes for outdoor activities.
- Hotel Amenities: Check if your hotel has a gym or fitness facilities available for guests.
- Online Workouts: Access online platforms for guided workouts and classes, perfect for hotel rooms or outdoor spaces.
- Community Centers: Some destinations have community centers or recreational facilities offering affordable fitness options.
- Group Fitness Events: Keep an eye out for local fitness events or meetups happening during your stay.
By seeking out these resources, you can stay active and make the most of your vacation while maintaining your fitness routine.
Balance is the Key to Consistent Progress
Maintaining a healthy balance between relaxation and activity is essential for your overall well-being, especially during vacation. Dr. Leboeuf stresses the importance of planning ahead: "Decide on your fitness intentions before departure to prevent feeling off-track upon your return."
Remember, it's okay to take a break and enjoy some downtime, but staying active can also enhance your experience.
