Jet lag, packed schedule, binge eating unique local foods, getting all too relaxed and comfortable – these are what happen when we travel, and it seems so hard to stay fit given all these perfect reasons. But of course, these are only excuses.
Travelling does not hinder you from keeping fit, but quite the contrary, it should be an excellent opportunity to give yourself tune-up. There are many chances and ways to get active and get in shape, as long as you’re motivated.
1. Water Water Water!
(source: The Wirecutter)
Bring a bottle of water with you wherever you go. Get one of those lightweight, collapsible water bottles which you can stuff into your bag or even your pocket. We all know that it’s recommended to consume 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, but not many people are aware that it’s not only for hydration, but also a useful tool for losing weight.
Water helps to boost our metabolism and detoxify our body, which leads to weight loss and better skin. Drinking sufficient amount of water also keeps you feeling full, and thus suppresses your appetite.
When we travel, we usually move a lot or spend a whole day outside. Keep a water bottle handy. There are plenty of water bottle refill stations and drinking fountains in most tourist attractions, and even everywhere on the streets in some countries like Australia.
If you have a bottle with you, you can always refill and never run out of water. It also saves you money on buying drinks, and prevents you from consuming unhealthy beverages like soft drinks. To make drinking water more pleasurable, you can easily add a little squirt of lemon or lime into it to improve the taste.
2. Exercise Anywhere
(Source: healthyhappysexywealthy)
If you are staying in nice hotels, why not hit the gym or the pool since they’re already included in your room rate. But even if you’re staying in hostels, airbnb, or even camping, there is no excuse for not exercising! I’m not a gym member nor a runner, but I practice my workout routine every day at my living room, so as when I’m travelling.
All you need are just a space to lay a yoga mat or a towel, as well as your phone to time your routine and play some music. Go download any workout/HIIT/Tabata timer apps. Many of these apps are free and very easy to use. I’m currently using one called “Exercise Timer“. You can create your own routines, set the intervals, and save them for every day use.
The famous 7-Minute workout is a good start for beginners. It’s a series of 12 cardio and bodyweight exercises, which lasts for 30 seconds each with 10 seconds rest time in between. You can definitely take two rounds of it for better result. You can also try, or even add other workouts on top of it to train your abs, butt and legs, depending on what you need. There are many free fitness videos on YouTube that you can follow.
3. Walk Instead of Using Public Transport
Walking – isn’t it the essence of travelling? The best way to explore a new place is by walking, and it’s certainly a good way to lose the calories of those local foods that you have no reason not to try (right?). Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes. Let your feet and your heart guide you.
Strolling along the streets, wandering around the parks… just take it slow to immerse yourself in a foreign place and become part of it. There are many beautiful little things that you may missed out in between your destinations if you choose to take the bus or subway insteading of walking.
It’s an amazing fact that every time after a trip, my body gets leaner because I walk A LOT! Even if I also eat a lot while travelling, all the walking and sweating always set off the fat and calories. And the sunkissed skin tone also makes me look fit. So get active and walk! Nevertheless, shopping also counts.
4. Get Outdoors
No matter where you travel, there should be heaps of outdoor activities that you can try out. You can get moving even in bustling cities! It’s always a matter of choice. Let’s say, you can go cycling around the city of Adelaide with it’s free bikes (yes they’re free, no excuse); go rock climbing or stand-up paddling at the South Bank of Brisbane; go biking along the Han River in Seoul, rather than binge buying Korean bargain cosmetics; go hiking the world-class trails in Hong Kong instead of shopping and eating. I’m from HK and I can assure you that the metropolis actually boasts numerous mountains and trails, while three-quarters of the land is countryside.
If you’re not in a city, then things get even more exciting. Just open up yourself for explorations and expeditions. I still remember the time when I decided to go to Tasmania as the last stop of my yearlong journey in Australia, because impulsively accepted an invitation to go on a 6-day hike at the 65 km Overland Track. Hiking up and down the hills with a 15kg backpack was no easy task, but it was absolutely rewarding, both spiritually and physically.
So just keep yourself motivated and explore the unknown. It’s always the unexpected experiences which are the most unforgettable and rewarding!
Do you have any other tips for staying fit whilst travelling? Please feel free to leave a comment!
Keep Walking On 