Traveling breaks us out of our normal routine which is a good break from reality, but it doesn’t have to mean giving up exercise. There are so many ways to explore a new destination while burning a few extra calories and it won’t even feel like a workout.
1. Sightseeing Walk or Run
Waking up and hitting the streets before breakfast is one of my favorite ways to start off the morning in a new city. If I am feeling ambitious I might go for a run. If I want to take my time, I may seek out a local coffee shop and walk through the surrounding neighborhood. Using the time while others are sleeping is my personal time to find the “secret” nooks and crannies I may want to revisit later in the day.
2. Stairs
Stairs, stairs, everywhere. In your hotel, at temples and monuments and trekking through the city. Sometimes elevators aren’t an option. Lucky you! During my recent stay in Thailand, the yoga retreat space I stayed at was positioned on a cliff overlooking the ocean. To get anywhere on the property there was an abundance of stairs. Often I would use those short climbs to get a burst of exercise in as I made my way to dinner or a yoga class. Stair climbing can become intentional movement. Structured as a workout, with a time limit in mind or simply an intentional decision to add more movement to your day. Either way you will be building strength and cardio capacity!
3. Hiking
Beautiful scenery, breathing fresh air, and being out in nature! Sightseeing AND getting a sweat on. What is not to love about a hike? Be sure to pack hiking shoes and comfy clothes so if the opportunity arises you are prepped and ready to go.
4. Rock Climbing
Whoa! I had my first outdoor rock climbing experience while in Thailand this summer and it was both challenging and fun! With a knowledgeable instructor, our group of all fitness levels was able to successfully make it to the top of each run. Trust me you will be feeling it for a few days after.
5. Paddle Boarding & Water Sports
If your destination is near a body of water, there are so many options for activities that often double as sightseeing opportunities. From kayaking and paddle boarding to a leisurely swim, these are all great core and cardio activities. If water sports don’t suit you, run on the beach! The sand and water create extra resistance to challenge your body in a different way.
6. Snow Sports
If you are traveling in the winter try snowshoeing, skiing, or snowboarding. You may find a new sport to take home with you. After a day on the slopes, you can grab a hot cocoa in the lodge overlooking the beautiful scenery.
7. Shake Yo' Booty
Don’t underestimate the caloric burn of dancing, whether it be in the hotel room or a night out on the town with friends. Dancing will get those endorphins flowing and calories burning!
8. Simply Walk More
One of the benefits of vacation is getting to create your own schedule. You may be tempted to rent a car or take public transportation, but if you opt to walk to nearby destinations not only will you get the physical benefits of walking, but you may discover a hidden gem. You can easily walk 3-4 miles or more per day without even realizing it.
9. Yoga
Yoga is good for the body and the soul. Taking a yoga class in your new locale is not only great for intentionally moving your body, but you may connect with an instructor or other travelers and community members. There are even apps such as the Lululemon Om Finder where you can search for studios all over the world.
10. Hotel Room HIIT Workout
If you are someone that doesn’t want to miss a “real” workout, wake up and “HIIT” it before leaving your hotel. This quick 20 minute total body circuit does not need any equipment and will be sure to get you sweating!
Complete 4-6 rounds of the following exercises. 45 seconds on, 15 seconds of rest between each exercise. Complete all exercises in the circuit and then rest 90 seconds-2 minutes before starting your next round!
- Stationary Inchworm to Pushups
- Jump Squats or Squat to Calf Raise
- Tricep Dips
- Reverse Lunges or Reverse lunge to a hop
- Plank
There are plenty of ways to squeeze in exercise during travel. Let us know how you incorporate activity into your travel routine!
