So, where are you going on your vacation? The beach? The
mountains? To visit family? A trip abroad? So many places, so
little time, right?
So, where are you going on your vacation? The beach? The mountains? To visit family? A trip abroad?
So many places, so little time, right?
And the question on your mind is “What am I going to do about my workouts?”
According to a USA Today poll, almost one-half of all travelers questioned felt that they were in worse shape because they don’t have as much time as they would like, or the means available, to exercise properly while traveling.
This does not have to be the case. There are as many ways to stay in shape on the road as there are destinations. It sometimes takes as bit of creativity, but the options are there.
Let’s discuss a few of them:
Since I have spent a lot of time lately on introducing T-Tapp to you, let’s begin with that. One of the beauties of T-Tapp is that each of the workouts requires very little space (four square feet) and no equipment.
The Total Workout video (which you can get on VHS or DVD) also comes with an audio cd. So, even if you don’t have access to a VCR/DVD player, it can still be done. Concerned about having the time? Fifteen minutes a day is all you need.
Remember the three major components of any exercise program: cardiovascular (aerobics), strength training and flexibility. T-Tapp encompasses all of these. But now let’s look at some other options.
Cardiovascular activities are relatively easy to maintain while you are on vacation. It’s likely that you will be outdoors quite a bit.
Take a walk (or jog) along the beach, or hike up a mountain. Take a bike ride along the coast or on a trail though the woods. Swim in the ocean, or if you prefer a lake or a pool.
All of these things are aerobic and will raise your heart rate. Or pack a jump rope in your suitcase. It takes up minimal space, is great for cardiovascular conditioning and will make you feel like a kid again.
Perhaps you are one of those people who are motivated by a gym or health club atmosphere. Many hotels have a fitness facility on site. Or if they don’t, they often work out (no pun intended) affiliations with local gyms. In addition, many gyms worldwide hold memberships to organizations which allow reciprocal use amongst them.
What about strength training on the road?
Excellent options, which fit in any suitcase, are elastic bands or tubing. Almost all exercises that can be done with dumbbells can be executed with these bands, which vary in levels of resistance.
While you are on vacation (or traveling on business, for that matter), try not to be so concerned with your sets and reps as much as keeping active and having fun.
Now that we’ve taken care of the cardiovascular and strength components of your workout, le’‚s discuss an often-neglected part, and the easiest to do when traveling, the flexibility portion.
Stretching is simple to do anytime and anywhere. It will help combat the shortening and tightening effects of sitting for long periods of time; such is often the case on an airplane, in an airport or on a road trip.
If you are on a long flight, it is a wise idea to get out of your seat periodically and walk the length of the plane to stretch your legs.
On a long car ride, take advantage of gas and rest stops by getting out of the car and moving around. While you are sitting, move your upper body to keep from stiffening up.
These exercises can be performed discreetly if you do not want to disturb your fellow passengers. However, if they catch on to what you are doing, they might just take your lead and follow suit.
Remember, proper stretching helps insure that your muscle can work through their full range of motion.
Bottom line: Traveling is no excuse for letting your workouts take a back seat. Even on the road there are many options available to maintain your fitness level.
Find what you like to do and do it. Who knows, you might find your new fitness passion.
If you have any questions, or would like more information about T-Tapp or any other fitness matter, please contact me at (408) 981-1566 or e-mail me at ho**********************@*****on.net.
Karen Seraphine holds a master of arts degree in physical education/fitness management from New York University and is certified by the American Council on Exercise as a personal trainer and a lifestyle and weight management consultant and is a certified T-Tapp Trainer. She owns HomeRun Personal Training in Gilroy.
