Staying healthy, fit while on vacation

FOREVER FIT

My wife and I recently celebrated our anniversary in beautiful Lake Chelan.

Although I grew up in Wenatchee and spent many days on the lake, my wife and I had never vacationed there. The highlight of our trip was wine tasting via private helicopter…it was amazing despite smoke from the Pioneer wildfire. During one of our morning walks, I thought about this week’s article. Here’s how you can stay fit and healthy while still enjoying your well-deserved break. 1. Plan Active Adventures One of the best ways to stay fit on vacation is to incorporate physical activities into your itinerary.

Choose adventures that get you moving, such as hiking, cycling, swimming, or even walking tours. Not only do these activities provide excellent exercise, but they also allow you to experience your destination in a unique and immersive way.

For instance, if you’re visiting a coastal area, consider taking surfing lessons or exploring the underwater world with snorkeling or scuba diving. In mountainous regions, hiking or mountain biking can be exhilarating ways to enjoy nature and get your heart pumping.

2. Make Use of Hotel Amenities Many hotels and resorts offer fitness amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, and yoga classes. Take advantage of these facilities to maintain your workout routine. Even if your accommodation doesn’t have a gym, you can still do bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks in your room.

Some hotels also provide maps for local running routes or offer bike rentals, making it easy to stay active while exploring the area.

3. Mind Your Meals Vacations often come with the temptation to indulge in rich foods and lavish meals. While it’s perfectly fine to treat yourself, try to balance indulgent dining with healthier choices. Aim to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your meals.

When dining out, consider sharing dishes to avoid overeating or choosing smaller portions.

Additionally, look for local markets where you can pick up fresh produce and healthy snacks. Staying hydrated is also crucial, especially if you’re spending time in the sun. Carry a reusable water bottle to ensure you drink enough water throughout the day.

4. Keep a Routine While the structure of your day may change on vacation, try to keep some elements of your usual routine. This could mean sticking to a regular sleep schedule, having breakfast at the same time each day, or maintaining your workout habits.

Incorporating mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation can also help you stay centered and reduce stress, making your vacation more enjoyable.

5. Explore on Foot One of the simplest ways—and one of my favorites—to stay active is by walking. Whenever possible, explore your destination on foot. Walking not only helps you stay fit but also allows you to discover hidden gems and experience the local culture up close.

Consider taking a morning walk to start your day or an evening stroll to unwind. If you’re in a city, you might walk through neighborhoods, parks, or along waterfronts. In rural areas, nature trails and scenic routes offer peaceful walking experiences.

6. Pack Smart Packing smart can set you up for a healthy vacation. Bring along comfortable workout clothes and shoes, so you’re prepared for any physical activity.

Packing healthy snacks, such as nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars, can also help you avoid unhealthy options when hunger strikes.

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.

7. Embrace Local Wellness Practices Many destinations have unique wellness traditions and practices. Take advantage of these local offerings to enhance your well-being. This might include trying a traditional spa treatment, participating in a local yoga class, or enjoying a therapeutic hot spring.

Staying healthy and fit while on vacation doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. By planning active adventures, making mindful food choices, and incorporating some elements of your usual routine, you can enjoy a balanced and rejuvenating getaway. Remember, the goal is to return from your vacation feeling refreshed and energized, ready to dive back into your everyday life with renewed vigor. So, pack your bags and get ready for a healthy and memorable summer vacation!

MICHAEL MARTIN JR. IS A WORLD RECORD HOLDING POWERLIFTER AND AUTHOR OF “REAL QUESTIONS UNREAL RESULTS: Rants, Insights, and Lessons Learned from an Overeducated Underachiever, Chronic Procrastinator, Retired Military Veteran, Cowboy, and World Champion Powerlifter.”