If you’re like a lot of people, you have some big travel plans during the holidays. And on top of that, you might have some parties and feasting on your schedule! With more calories in your diet, and less time for exercise, it’s no wonder so many people report weight gain over the holidays.
We have already shared tips on controlling your caloric intake during the holidays. Now let’s talk about cramming some exercise time into your busy travel schedule – when you’re away from your regular gym and usual routine.
Pack some workout equipment. No, you probably don’t want to pay the baggage fees to bring fifty pounds of weights with you! But you can easily slip a jump rope into your bags, along with resistance bands and any other light equipment you might own. Remember to bring ear buds or wireless headphones so that you can play music from your cell phone wherever you go. And of course, don’t forget your running shoes!
Hike the airport. There’s no rule that says you have to sit for hours, waiting on your flight. If there’s a delay (or you just followed instructions and arrived at the airport very early), go on a walk around the airport while you wait. You’re about to spend hours sitting in a cramped airplane seat, anyway.
Check local gyms. Some gyms offer special day rates to out-of-towners. Or, perhaps the people you’re visiting have a guest option on their own membership. Another option is to stay at a hotel that has a gym or indoor pool on property.
Enlist a relative. Ask a relative to go on a walk with you. You can fit in some one-on-one time and have a private conversation, while stay true to your fitness goals. If the weather interferes with your plans, head to the mall under the guise of hitting the post-holiday sales. You can window shop while doing laps.
Remember that doing anything is better than doing nothing. If you can only spare thirty minutes to do some jumping jacks, squats, lunges, push-ups, and crunches in a spare bedroom somewhere, then do it!
Remember to stretch after long flights. Sometimes, sitting still for hours can make you more sore than a workout. Remember to stretch after you get off the plane, and you can hopefully prevent sore muscles later.
