By Allison Elfline, Personal Trainer, OBGYN The Group
When it comes to staying on your fitness routine while on vacation, there are two different camps: try to get in some moderate activity while still enjoying yourself, or laying around on a beach towel for a week. There is often no middle ground. However, many sneak away on vacation and enjoy a healthy dose of activity and fitness, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of their exotic locales.
To begin, if you are heading out of town via the airport, there are many ways to start off your vacation on the right foot by always opting for walking through terminals whilst waiting for your plane. Opt for stairs instead of elevators (this goes for your destination location, as well), and park further from the terminal to get in your extra steps to and from the check-in desk.
While at your destination, there are numerous ways to continue to exercise and enjoy your time away. Opt for restaurants and sightseeing opportunities you can walk to; just make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes! Also, choose hotels and inns with a fitness center or pool to be able to take advantage of this free perk.
In addition, this might be your chance to try something exciting and different, such as hiking hills or mountains, take a salsa class, water-ski, or rent some kayaks or canoes. Most tourist destinations have rental companies that specialize in renting out bicycles, boogie/surf boards, and other activities to try your hand at something new.
Nowadays, most everyone has an activity monitor, such as a Garmin, Fitbit, Jawbone, or an app on their mobile device that can help keep them motivated throughout the day. Your vacation shouldn’t deter you from getting in those goals each day. Many apps you can download on your mobile device can also help to keep you accountable during your trip, such as MyFitnessPal, Fitocracy, Runkeeper, Nike Training Club, and FitStar, which creates custom workouts based on your preferences.
Lastly, the best reason to keep up with your fitness routine while on vacation is it will help you to feel your best! You will need extra energy for all the sights and experiences you are set to have. Make sure you make the most of your trip!
Allison Elfline, NASM-CPT, WFS, is the owner of WellWomanQC and on-staff as a certified personal trainer of the weight management program at The Group. For more information on our weight loss programs, call today to set up an appointment at 563-355-1853. The Group looks forward to seeing you at 53rd St. and Eastern Ave. in Davenport! Visit us at www.obgyngroup.com.