Whether you’re touring a continent or on your way to the land down under, it’s important to stay in shape so you can happily and comfortably enjoy exploring beautiful places around the world. And on each places, you step your foot on, there is always something that evokes such high aspirations for activity, thanks to a seemingly endless supply of exciting things to do and see that mother nature and technology has given us.
So, if you’re heading for a long holiday and are hoping to stay in tip-top shape so you can better embrace the experience, read on. Here are 6 ways to say in shape when travelling.
1) Stretch!
For many people, getting on a vacation, especially abroad is a long-haul journey, involving more than a few uncomfortable hours on a plane. While the cramped quarters (and common decency) prevent you from breaking out your yoga mat for a full-on flow, you can certain stretch a little. Stretching in your seat or getting up and stretching while you wait in line for the loo is a great way to feel instantly energized, prevent sore and stiff muscles and to be able to relax better while enroute.
2) Rest Well
We know you want to see and do everything you can, but you cannot burn the candle on both ends. There needs to be a calm yin to your go-go-go yang. So, by all means, spend time actively engaging in your stunning surroundings, but also make time to just relax, rest and get solid sleep. Which prevents you from stress that might cause binge eating. This will also ensure you can mentally and physical take on the rigours of the outback, and the demands of any trip. Don’t overdo it. Remember: there is no ‘on’ without the ‘off.’
3) Hydrate
Our diets tend to fall by the wayside when we travel, and this can cause everything from disrupted sleep, to unwanted weight gain, to changes in mood and serious digestive distress. One of the best and easiest ways to make sure your mind and body operate as close to peak as possible is to drink enough water — between 2.7 and 3.7 litres. Water will keep every cell in your body hydrated, and it will also help you focus, keep you more alert and even bolster your mood and energy. So be sure to drink up!
Pro-tip: Be sure to stay hydrated on the plane, too. The cabin air can be quite dry which can cause dehydration, fatigue and muscle cramps.
4) Limit Alcohol
No one is saying you have to lay off the sauce entirely, but over imbibing on your get away vacation will really put a damper on your plans to see what you want to see, and do what you want to do. It’s the nature of the epic hangover. Alcohol will also pile on unwanted calories, leading to weight gain. This isn’t even accounting for the lack of energy you’ll expend and junk food you’ll nursing a two day hangover. So, enjoy a tipple or two, but try to take it easy on the booze. Your mind and body will both thank you!
5) Short & Sweet Sweat
Just because you’re away from your gym doesn’t mean you have to stop working out. You can train absolutely anywhere, anytime using HIIT training — high intensity interval training. In as little as 12 minutes, you can use your own bodyweight crush calories and torch fat using intense full-body exercises that push your body to the max. Think jump squats, burpees, push ups, dips, pikes and switch lunges. There’s really no excuse not to workout wherever you are, and if you keep in shape on your trip, you won’t have to struggle to get back into shape when you get home. If you’re stuck for motivation, hop on board an online HIIT website, like BodyRock or BodyBoss, and let their trainers lead you through the workouts.
Be sure to pack your trainers, women’s or men’s gym shorts and any gear you may need so you don’t make excuses not to sneak in a quick workout.
6) Eat Clean(ish)
You’re on vacation, so you’re likely not going to eat super clean all the time. You can, however, make a commitment to eat as clean as possible. Give yourself a 60/40 rule, where 60% of your food has to be in the form of whole foods like lean cuts of protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. The rest? Go wild. This is your vacation, after all, and while the 60/40 rule won’t help you lose weight, it will help you refrain from gaining more weight.
Got it? Good! All these tips are realistic and simple, so you’ll have no problem implementing them and staying in shape during your journey to and around Oz.