Fitness on the Go

Whether it’s for business or pleasure, there comes an opportunity to get out of your personal “shire” to experience new sights, tastes, and adventures.

For those of you who are seasoned “worker-outers” or for those who have just begun and would like to keep up the good work, traveling can set you back a bit if you do not take the time to make exercise as important to you while you travel as you do back home.

It is no surprise that our routines get thrown out of the window when we travel. I have clients come to me before my spin class to tell me that “it’s been awhile, please don’t kill me,” as if they are taking the guilt off of their shoulders with their “confession” of not exercising while on vacation. Please believe me when I say that it is okay to not exercise as much on vacation as you would at home. After all, it is a vacation! If, however, you are training for something like a race, too many missed days of exercise can set you back.

Do you need some vacation exercise direction? Are you looking for ways to keep on track while you are gone? I have some great ideas to help you keep fit during vacations.

I am a big fan of working out without equipment when I travel. I love to run, so a pair of running shoes is a no-brainer in my suitcase. The beautiful thing about running is that no matter where you travel, there will always be a road. Unless of course, you are on a boat. Overcome your shyness and ask a local where a good trail might be, or what the safest roads are to take. I usually take an “out and back” route, meaning I head out and come back the same way. I do not like to get lost! Not a runner? Walk it! You will probably find that running/walking allows for sightseeing opportunities and moments to absorb the beauty of your surroundings. Mindfulness and presence are essential when traveling, in my humble opinion. You absolutely have them both when you are getting outside and being active.

Another favorite travel exercise can be done indoors or out, which is so convenient. I decide on three movements, for example, sit-ups, squats, and push-ups. I do ten repitions of each exercise ten times. Breaking it down, it looks like this: ten sit-ups, ten squats, and ten push-ups, followed by a SHORT rest. Repeat ten times. Depending on your fitness level, you could split it and do five repetitions of each movement five times. This provides you a full body workout in a short amount of time in a small amount of space. Add various other exercises, such as jumping jacks, planks, and knee highs, for variety. Mix it up, play some tunes, and have fun!

Visiting exercise studios is a great way to be a part of the community you are visiting. Whatever your interest, whether it be yoga, Pilates, CrossFit, cycling, Barre, etc., there is an opportunity for you to embrace the culture and still get a great workout. As a bonus, you might just meet some locals who can give recommendations for dining and entertainment that you cannot find on Google!

Whether you are traveling by car, train, or plane, work travel can force you to sit for long periods, which is not good for your health. To fit some physical activity into your travel days, wear your walking or running shoes. If you are traveling by plane and time permits, or you encounter a delay, stroll through the airport terminal rather than sitting at the gate. When traveling by train, walk through the cars occasionally. If you are driving, take breaks to get out and stretch.

Many hotels either offer their own fitness centers or have contracts with local fitness clubs which offer free or discounted workout opportunities for their guests. If you are really strapped for exercises, walking up and down the stairs of your hotel is a great way to get your heart pumping!

You have surely heard it many times, but I am going to repeat it: Exercise is important! Traveling often includes eating extra calories, so take the time to be active for a few minutes every day! Have a good time, embrace the experience, but remember to take care of yourself from the inside out. Be mindful, intentional, and grateful. You are worth it! Bon Voyage!

Jennifer Kieta is a native Texan, born and raised in Houston. She graduated from Texas Tech University and has lived in Fort Worth since 1996. Jennifer worked as a Child Life Specialist at Cook Children’s Medical Center for 9 years before becoming a full-time mommy to her two daughters. In the fall of 2014, Jennifer started training and soon became a spin instructor for Zyn22, a boutique spin studio here in Fort Worth. Her love of and belief in taking care of your mind, soul, and body has always been a priority, and she looks forward to sharing that love with her community!