7 Ways to Stay Fit and Healthy on Your Travels

October 16, 2021

COVID has had a toll on everyone’s lives! I, for one, have piled on the pounds during lockdowns, drank too much and lost all motivation for everything including exercise and the list goes on. Now, even though the virus is still with us, the world is slowly opening up again which means we might be able to have that long awaited holiday abroad. But, if you’ve already started your journey back to fitness, how can you keep the momentum going if you do manage to get away? Let’s look at 7 ways to stay fit and healthy on your travels.

1. Walk everywhere

Wherever you end up, instead of taking the local public transportation, take to your own feet and walk. Not only is this a great form of exercise, but you’ll discover places and see things that you wouldn’t normally see if you’re stuck in the back seat of a taxi. Walking is also a great way to ‘get your bearings’ when you are visiting somewhere new.

Things to do when visiting somewhere new — Walking in Bangkok

2. Go jogging

Go for a jog around a park or on the beach. It’s free, it’s a good way to clear your mind and you’ll keep those extra pounds at bay. If the idea of jogging makes you feel like throwing up, start slowly walking, then get faster until you break into a jog. You’ll be amazed at how energised you’ll feel and your body will benefit from the fresh air.

Things to do in free time — Jogging in King Rama IX Park, Bangkok

3. Enjoy a swim

A fabulous form of exercise that will work your whole body, swimming is easy to fit into any holiday or longer trip. Everyone takes time to relax and, more often than not, that time is spent on a beach or by a swimming pool. Get in and do a few lengths of the pool or wade out into the blue ocean.

4. Do body weight exercises

Body weight exercises need no equipment whatsoever. All you need is a bit of space and the motivation to stay active. Try push ups, burpees or air cycles. There are so many exercises you can do and all are designed to get your heart pumping and keep your body strong.

5. Watch what you eat

When you go travelling, it’s so tempting to overeat. I do it all the time – all those delicious new foods! I feel like I’ve put on ten stone by the time I’m heading home! Try to abstain from foods that you wouldn’t normally eat at home – MacDonalds, KFC etc. If you are self-catering, head to the local market where you’ll find a huge array of delicious fruits and vegetables or try to stick to healthy choices when eating out in restaurants.

6. Don’t drink alcohol every day

As with overeating, drinking alcohol every day is easily done. We have all been guilty of this one, waking up with a horrendous hangover and vowing never to drink again. Don’t cut out completely, especially if you enjoy a tipple with your evening meal, but don’t overdo it. Your head and your liver will thank you in the morning. Trust me, I have been there!

7. Keep hydrated

If you are travelling through a hot country, it’s imperative to keep yourself hydrated. Most of us don’t drink nearly as much water as we should, and this is particularly important when the sun is constantly blazing down on you. Being hydrated will stop headaches and keep your energy levels up.