I’ve spent a good amount of time in airports and on planes lately, and I finally feel like I’ve reached a point where I stay on track with my health and fitness goals while traveling. Travel can be challenging if you’re trying to stay healthy and stick with a workout plan, especially if it’s new! These are not groundbreaking tips by any means, but they are what helps me stick to my goals. As we know, change rarely happens overnight, and sometimes it takes months (if not years) of practice before routines finally sink in. If you’re someone who “falls off the wagon” when you travel, I’d recommend trying to incorporate even one of these tips when you take your next trip.
I always travel with a few apples and a few protein bars, that way I have something if the flight is delayed, I get stuck in the airport, or even if I want to start my day off by eating them as breakfast. Being prepared means less calories and money wasted!
I don’t usually lift when I travel (unless I’m gone for a while or there’s a YMCA conveniently nearby), but I make it a point to MOVE. I’ll make sure I get my steps in, whether its dancing, walking or hiking. Recently I found the Yoga room in Chicago’s O’Hare Airport and took advantage of that for a quick 25 minute flow, and the weekend before we hiked while in Colorado. I didn’t go out of my way to spend time inside at a gym, but I was still active and moved my body. Not to mention, walking is an amazing way to explore a new city!
Don’t use vacation as an excuse to eat everything unhealthy item you see. Definitely eat the dessert, or have the mimosa, but don’t repeatedly eat junk food just because you’re “on vacation.” I used to use travel as an excuse for junk. I’d always treat myself to Sour Patch Kids and Sunchips in the airport or on a road trip (two weaknesses of mine), but I’d end up feeling crappy almost immediately. What I noticed is that since my routine is already off when I travel (early wake ups, long periods of sitting, exposed to more germs, rough sleep) I’m already not feeling my best, so when I choose nutritious food while traveling, it helps me to feel more normal. Plus, you will feel better during and after your trip if you continue to fuel your body with good food (and a few treats here and there).
Easier said than done, right? But if you’re eating *mostly* well and moving your body, then relax about not sticking to your everyday routine to a T. Its best to strike a balance where you’re still taking care of yourself, but you’re away from the structure and stresses of everyday life.
Like I said before, not groundbreaking tips, but these 4 really work for me. Hopefully they can help you as well! And, if you have any awesome travel tips to share, definitely let me know in the comments below!
xo, Maddy
I'm a life + success coach for humans like you who want the support to gain the clarity, confidence, and competence to become the most confident and successful version of yourself.
These are great tips! My boyfriend and I are really trying to make good choices at restaurants now and it’s really making a difference!
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yes! Sometimes its hard but you really do feel SO MUCH better.