5 Effortless Strategies to Maintain Your Fitness (Without Missing the Fun) on Vacation

Traveling is about having fun and letting loose. Don’t beach yourself up about skipping a workout! Knowing how to stay in shape on vacation includes finding the right balance of indulgence and consistency. Here’s your guide to looking and feeling your best regardless of where your trips take you. 

How to Stay in Shape on Vacation

Summer is here! It’s time to pack your bags, hit the road and have fun. I’m headed to Port Aransas in a couple of weeks, and I know some of our staff and clients are going to Corpus Christi, Florida and even India! 

If you’re like most of us, you might be worried that your vacation will derail your weight-loss goals. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to! You can absolutely enjoy yourself on vacation without returning home feeling bloated and frustrated. 

Here’s a simple game plan I use for myself and with clients when considering how to stay in shape on vacation. 

1. Quick and Effective Workouts

You don’t need to spend much time out of your trip finding a gym and getting a workout in. Use your body weight or a hotel gym to crank out quick 15- to 30-minute sessions. 

Lower the rest times and crank up your intensity a bit, and you’ll get a very effective workout with minimal or no equipment. It might not be a Chris Protein Personal Training workout, but it’ll get your heart pumping and body moving!

2. The 80/20 Rule for Vacation Food

Let yourself fully enjoy 20% of your vacation meals and treats guilt-free. The other 80% of the time, stay mindful and focus on doing your best with nutrition. It’s realistic, enjoyable and won’t undo your hard-earned progress.

There’s nothing wrong with getting ice cream for dessert while on vacation. Just be consistent and remember the personalized nutrition plan your trainer made for you. If you follow the 80/20 rule, you’re on the right track. 

Bonus tip: Stop by a grocery store or have some healthy staples delivered to your hotel room when you arrive. Then, you are prepared to stay in shape on vacation.

3. Hydrating Your Body

Sunshine, salty snacks and celebratory drinks can dehydrate you. Staying hydrated keeps hunger in check, boosts energy and even supports fat burning. Keep your water bottle handy!

If you plan to be outside, limit your caffeine intake because it could be counterproductive. Sodas and coffees increase the frequency of bathroom trips, which can dehydrate you. Supplement your beverages with water to stay hydrated.

4. Active Excursions

Lounging by the pool all afternoon makes for a relaxing vacation. However, I’m shore you could fit in a quick swim! Make time each day for an outdoor adventure, whether on the river or in the mountains. Sign up for local activities if you’re wondering how to stay in shape on vacation with the community. 

For example, you could head to the beach for outdoor yoga. This mindful exercise is excellent for stretching and starting your day right. Yoga experts say sweating removes toxins from the body, making it a powerful workout. 

5. Getting Plenty of Rest

After you seas the day with activity, it’s time for a good night’s sleep. Vacations might throw off your schedule if you change time zones and lie in a different bed. Therefore, you should be even more conscious of your rest routine to help your energy levels. 

Follow your normal bedtime routine to help you fall asleep. For example, sleep experts recommend limiting sugar and caffeine and blocking light entering your room. Instead of scrolling on your phone, end your evening with a warm bath.

How to Stay in Shape on Vacation With Planning

You’ve made reservations and are ready to hit the road. Don’t weight until you get to the hotel to plan your fitness routine — start now! Here are a few tips for staying ahead of the game:

• Set realistic goals: What are your fitness goals for vacation? You could try to maintain your current weight or even shed a pound.

• Plan your workouts: You might not have access to all-inclusive gym amenities, but you can plan your workouts before you leave. Block time during the day for the hotel gym or a walk in the park. 

• Pack smartly: Figuring out how to stay in shape on vacation is easier if you bring the proper equipment. Pack smartly with free weights, resistance bands and a yoga mat in a gym bag. Talk to your trainer about a personalized exercise plan for the road. 

• Research menus: You can plan your meals if you know the restaurants beforehand. Check the menus for healthy ingredient swaps, such as grilled meat instead of fried.

• Adjust when needed: It’s vacation time, so don’t overwork yourself! Listen to your body and rest when needed. 

• Get excited: Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore! Get excited about your workouts because they could introduce new hobbies and relieve stress. 

Get in Shape With Chris Protein Personal Training

Having fun and enjoying yourself should be the objective of your vacation. One week of traveling won’t waist your fitness efforts! However, it helps to be mindful of your goals and prepare beforehand. 

If you’re ready to get in shape, book a free transformation session with Chris Protein Personal Training in South Austin! Your first visit includes a facility tour and a personalized plan to crush your goals. Our trainers can help you make waves with healthy vacation choices!