We all like to experience local food when we travel. We usually have carefree attitudes and don’t want to worry about watching what we eat. I usually eat and drink what I want when I travel because I never want to miss out on anything. For those on the road all the time they need to be more sensible about what they eat but for a week long vacation we don’t want to come back feeling out of shape and unhealthy. Here is what I do to stay fit when I travel.
Before the Trip
Before you even take your trip you should be hitting the gym and eating well. This doesn’t give you a pass on vacation but it will help to balance the effects of exercising less and eating more. However, don’t over do it. You don’t need to kill yourself getting in shape for a vacation. Do everything in moderation. Eat right, hit the gym a few times a week and prepare your body for what lies ahead.
Local Food
I always want to try all the local food and street food when I am traveling and I think everyone should. The best way to do this is by sampling different food vendors and not overeating. Eating out doesn’t mean you need to eat food that is bad for you. Try something off the menu that is healthy and true to the region’s culinary culture.
Go to the local markets. Farmers markets in foreign cities are a great way to live like a local and see what their daily lives are like. It is also a great way to buy breakfast or lunch for a picnic. You will always save money at markets instead of dining out.
Only eat out at restaurants once every day. It is difficult to avoid eating out when you travel but try not to do it at every meal. Not only will you save money but you will probably find new foods and meet more people shopping at local establishment. Also, making your own meals if you are at a hostel or house rental shouldn’t be too hard because they usually have kitchens for your use.
Be Active
Many of us usually do not want to think about the gym, work, or anything we associate with home on vacation. That attitude is fine but don’t let your body take the punishment. Stay active by walking whenever possible. Explore the cities and get lost on food. You will save money by not taking a taxi and probably see a lot more along the way too. It will also help burn off those extra calories from dining out the night before.
Get up early and take a walk. If you are very fitness minded do some hood workouts and use your surroundings as a gym. Body weight exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, and squats will go a long way at home or on the road. You can do them almost anywhere so there is no excuse not to.
Don’t Forget to Relax
If you are someone who hits the gym hard at home a week off can be great for your body. Your muscles need breaks once in a while and a long rest can be good for them. During your vacation you may consider doing some stretching, getting a massage, or trying some yoga. Anything different from your home routine and low impact on your muscles is good for you. Just take it easy.
Pack for Success
Pack shoes, a workout shirt and shorts so you can at least one day go for a walk, run, or do some yoga. If you don’t bring any work out clothes you can still exercise by walking as much as possible. However, you should pack at least one set of workout gear and try to get it dirty at least once.
Overall
Enjoy every meal on your trips. Don’t let your diet at home get in the way of trying new things but be conscious of the what you are putting in your body. I usually eat and drink whatever I want on vacation. I find that I usually come home a few pounds lighter without even trying, even on long trips. This is because I eat local yet healthy. I walk the city and I try to do some urban or hood workouts at least 2x per week. I do them outside when possible but there is plenty of room in your hotel room to break a sweat.
Check out my post on Hood Workouts for more ways to stay fit on the road.
