Traveling is one of the true ways to feel alive! This is often a time that we enjoy the simpler pleasures in life and often time let fitness and exercise fall off our list of priorities. It does not need to be this way though. Some people always pack their workout clothes before going on vacation but in the back of their mind, they know they will probably not use them.
Working out or getting in some simple exercise while on vacation can be easy, allow you see new sites, and feel great while exploring a new area. Here are list of 10 activities that will allow you to get exercise without really trying while traveling.
Swimming
Swimming is a great way to get a total body workout that works muscles in your back, legs, and arms. Even if you are not swimming competitively but just swimming in the waves having a great time in the sun, you are sure to burn a few hundred calories. While in Florida, this was a great daily exercise routine that did not feel like working out at all. The best part is that I was at the beach for hours everyday. Why not take advantage of it?
Bike Rides
Bike riding is the perfect exercise that is low intensity as well as fun. There is no better way to see different areas of a city at a low cost. If you take advantage of local bike tours wherever you decide to travel, they usually last 4 to 8 hours. Without thinking about it, you will be burning calories while enjoying yourself.
Hiking
My absolute favorite way to get in a “workout” while I am traveling is to hike around the area. If you visit an area with tough climes, such as the Cinque Terre in Italy, there are plenty of beautiful trails that will lead you to unexpected places. In these one hour to two hour hikes, you can burn 500 calories which is a healthy dose of exercise. If you are not used to working out, you may feel yourself getting extremely sore the next day. Some trips are based around hiking, so it is important you get enough rest each night so you fully recover. You could also think about taking BCAA supplements so that each day is a new adventure and you are feeling like you could hike another few miles.
Shopping
You may think that shopping is no way to get any cardio in and you may be right. However, if you are walking around a new city all day long, this is a great form of low intensity exercise. If you make sure to eat right, all this extra walking on your vacation can be extremely beneficial.
Lift Weights At A Local Gym
If you are more into lifting weights, finding a local gym in an unfamiliar location to you can be a great way to meet new people and introduce yourself to a new culture of people. You will need to pay for a day pass at most locations but who knows who you will meet there? There is also the possibility of working out in a hotel fitness room if you are staying at one.
Long Walks On The Beach
Are you traveling to a location that has a beach? Research has shown that walking in the soft sand will actually burn more calories than if you are walking on flat land. How many calories? Some say double, but always be careful where you are walking or running to avoid glass and enjoy the site seeing.
Final Thoughts
Staying in shape while on a vacation and touring another country is really not as hard as people think. Yes, you will need to watch what you eat (everything in moderation!), and get your body moving, but this can be an enjoyable part of the trip. Always remember to drink enough water. This is crucial while doing the activities listed. Enjoy your travels and enjoy keeping in shape wherever your next adventure takes you!
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