When you’re on vacation, the temptation to ditch your training plan and fully dive into relaxation mode can be strong. While taking a break is important, keeping some level of fitness during your trip can actually enhance your experience. Not only does it help you stay on track with your goals, but staying active can be a great stress reliever, allowing you to enjoy your time away even more. Plus, staying committed to your workouts, even on vacation, sets the tone for continued progress and success when you return home.
The Benefits of Vacation Workouts
1. Stress Relief
Vacations are meant to be a break from the stresses of daily life, but sometimes traveling itself can be stressful—flights, airports, and itineraries can create tension. Getting a workout in helps your body release endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, which lower stress and improve mood. This can help you better enjoy your trip and feel more relaxed.
2. Maintain Your Progress
One of the main concerns when taking time off from your workout routine is losing progress. While a short break won’t completely derail your gains, incorporating even light workouts while on vacation helps keep your muscles engaged and prevents setbacks. You’ll return feeling strong and energized, rather than feeling like you’re starting over.
3. Boost Energy and Focus
Working out while on vacation can give you more energy to fully enjoy your trip. A morning workout can boost your alertness and mental focus, helping you be more present during your activities—whether it’s sightseeing, adventuring, or lounging by the pool.
4. Enhance Flexibility
Vacations are often about stepping outside of your usual routine, and that flexibility can extend to your fitness as well. If you’re used to rigid workout schedules, a vacation is a great time to be adaptable and explore new ways to stay active—like trying a local CrossFit class, swimming in the ocean, or hiking a scenic trail.
Tips for Staying Active on Vacation
1. Utilize Hotel Gyms or Room Workouts
Many hotels offer gyms that have everything you need for a quick strength or cardio session. If your accommodations don’t have a gym, bring a resistance band or a jump rope for easy-to-pack equipment, and create a bodyweight circuit in your room. Think air squats, push-ups, planks, and burpees—no equipment required.
2. Find a Local CrossFit Gym
If you’re someone who thrives in a community environment, consider dropping into a local CrossFit gym. Many CrossFit affiliates welcome drop-ins and have flexible day-pass rates. It’s a great way to keep your intensity up and meet new people while sticking with your favorite style of training.
3. Incorporate Vacation Activities
Depending on where you’re vacationing, you might already have active plans built into your trip. Swimming in the ocean, lake, or pool is a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like exercise. You can also explore the area through hiking, biking, or walking tours—getting your steps in without it feeling like a chore.
4. Morning Workouts for More Free Time
If you’re worried about cutting into your relaxation or sightseeing time, try scheduling your workouts in the morning. Not only will it give you a sense of accomplishment early in the day, but it frees up the rest of your time to explore, eat, and relax without the looming thought of getting a workout in later.
5. Track Your Steps
Exploring new cities is a perfect way to stay active without overthinking it. Tracking your steps with a fitness tracker or smartphone can help you stay motivated to hit a daily goal, even if you’re not in a structured workout. Walking between sights or along the beach can quickly add up and keep your body moving.
Key Takeaway
Balancing relaxation and activity on vacation is key to enjoying your time away while still maintaining your fitness goals. Whether you’re getting a quick hotel room workout in, finding a local gym, or staying active with vacation activities like swimming or hiking, every bit of movement helps. Staying consistent will not only make you feel better physically but also mentally, so you can return home without feeling like you’ve lost momentum.
Remember, it’s all about keeping the balance—work hard, play hard, and make the most out of your vacation while staying fit!