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10 Ways to Stay Active While Traveling

Discover practical tips for staying active during your travels, making the most of every adventure while keeping fit and healthy.

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Staying Active While Traveling

Stay Active While Traveling: Tips for the Adventurer

Traveling is a wonderful opportunity to explore new places, but it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your fitness goals. Whether you’re jet-setting to an exciting city or enjoying a scenic road trip, there are plenty of simple ways to keep active and healthy on the go. Here’s how to incorporate more movement into your travel routine without it feeling like a chore.

En Route to Your Destination

  • Turn the Terminal into Your Track: While at the airport, don’t just sit around waiting for your flight. Use that time to walk laps around your terminal. Not only will you get your steps in, but you’ll also feel more energized.

  • Book an Aisle Seat: Choosing an aisle seat makes it easier to get up and move around during your flight. Stretching your legs can improve circulation and help prevent stiffness.

  • Carry On Your Bag: Instead of checking your luggage, take it onboard. You’ll get a mini workout while saving on baggage fees and avoiding the wait at baggage claim.

  • Take Frequent Breaks on Road Trips: If you’re on a long drive, make it a point to stop every two to three hours. Use these breaks to walk, stretch, or do quick exercises to keep your energy levels up.

  • Swim During Stops: For a cool and refreshing break, seek out swimming spots along your travel route. Websites like swimmingholes.org can guide you to local swimming holes or hot springs where you can take a dip.

Choosing Your Accommodations Wisely

  • Stay in Walkable Areas: Select a hotel or Airbnb located in a walkable neighborhood. This way, you can explore on foot instead of relying on transportation, allowing you to discover the area more thoroughly.

  • Request a Room Away from Dining Areas: Opting for a room further from dining facilities means you’ll burn extra calories every time you head to meals, enhancing your overall activity level.

  • Borrow Fitness Gear: If space in your suitcase is tight, look for hotels that lend out fitness equipment. Many establishments, like Westin Hotels & Resorts, offer workout clothes and sports shoes for a nominal fee.

  • Skip Daily Room Service: Ask hotel staff to forgo cleaning your room, and tidy it up yourself. This will not only help you stay active but could earn you additional hotel points.

  • Limit TV Time: Commit to a "no television" rule during your vacation. This can encourage you to find alternative activities and engage in local exploration.

  • Engage in Yard Work: If visiting family, offer to help with garden chores. This can turn into a rewarding workout while also giving you quality time with loved ones.

  • Embrace Camping: If you’re adventurous, consider staying at a campground which can turn into a great outdoor workout opportunity, from hiking to gathering firewood.

Explore Through Active Sightseeing

  • Opt for Walking Tours: Instead of bus tours, seek walking tours through local attractions. You’ll not only get exercise but also gain a deeper appreciation of the sights.

  • Exercise While Waiting: While in line for a ride at a theme park, keep the blood flowing with calf raises or toe taps to stay active without extra effort.

  • Use Fitness Apps: Download apps like MapMyRun to track your walking distance while exploring nearby tourist spots. This can keep you motivated and help you discover fantastic locations.

  • Get Creative While Photographing: While capturing the perfect shot, don’t hesitate to walk, climb, or stretch. Join a photowalking tour to enhance your photography skills while staying active.

  • Visit a Botanical Garden: Walking in nature can do wonders for your mental health. Studies suggest that such activities can reduce activity in areas of the brain associated with depression.

  • Hit the Trails: Utilize apps like AllTrails to discover nearby hiking, biking, or running paths. Enjoying nature while getting your heart rate up is a superb way to combine fitness and exploration.

  • Climb for Views: Many destinations, like the Statue of Liberty, require climbing stairs for views. Take the opportunity to burn calories while soaking in breathtaking sights.

  • Book a Guided Running Tour: If you love running, find a guided city running tour. You’ll get to enjoy the sights while burning significant calories.

  • Explore Museums Actively: Visiting museums can keep you moving as you explore vast exhibits. You'll discover culture while racking up steps!

  • Bring Fun Outdoor Toys: Whether it’s a kite, Frisbee, or paddleball set, these can enhance your physical activity while enjoying time at your destination.

Discover Active Fun

  • Lead the Hiking Group: When hiking, stay at the front to set your own pace. This ensures you get a good workout while enjoying the scenery.

  • Try Zip-Lining: This exhilarating activity is not just fun; it also provides a solid core workout along with other activities at the site.

  • Join a Fitness Class: Check out local fitness studios for drop-in classes. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new and exciting while on vacation.

  • Engage in Water Sports: Ditch lounging on the sand and try stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, or kayaking. Many resorts offer rentals and classes.

  • Create a Step Challenge: Compete with a travel buddy to see who can accrue the most steps in a day. The prize could be dinner at a nice restaurant or a fun souvenir, adding a layer of excitement to your adventure.

  • Practice Yoga Outdoors: Find a serene spot on the beach or hiking trail and enjoy yoga. Connecting with nature while practicing poses can be both calming and energizing.

Embrace Rest and Enjoyment

  • Go Horseback Riding: Riding provides an effective workout while taking in beautiful landscapes. An engaging ride can burn calories and keep you active.

  • Explore Local Farmers' Markets: Strolling through a farmers' market can be a relaxing way to get your steps in and discover local produce, burning over 100 calories in the process.

  • Rent a Bicycle: Take advantage of bike-share programs to cycle through the city. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in your surroundings while getting in some cardiovascular exercise.

  • Stay Active While Shopping: Shopping is more than just a leisure activity—browsing can keep you moving and burning calories.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy every moment of your travels while staying active and healthy. Remember, every little bit counts, so embrace every opportunity to move! Happy travels!

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