Does your training schedule get out of whack when you travel? Do you just forget about your training routine until you get home? Proactively mapping out a training plan prior to your trip can help you maintain your fitness routine and fitness level when you travel. Following are four tips that will help you stay on track with your training routine when you find yourself on the road.
Plan Ahead
Contact your hotel or visit their website to confirm the type of facilities available. Knowing the type of equipment or facilities in advance allows you to pre-plan your training sessions and maximize your training time.
Schedule your training time into your days prior to reaching your destination. If you wait until you get there, you may never find the opportunity to make time for yourself.
If your hotel does not offer a fitness facility, ask if they have an affiliation with a local health club. If you are staying with friends or family, see if you can get a guest pass for their local club.
Check to see if there is a facility near your hotel that offers the Spinning® program.
If you’re used to working out with a personal trainer, consider contacting a facility to set up a training time with one of their trainers.
Consider Alternative Methods for Fitting in a Training Session
Embrace the surroundings of your destination to add some variation into your regular training regimen. If you’re near the beach, consider a walk/run on the beach. If you’re used to running/walking on a treadmill, take the stairs to your room instead of using the elevator. If a group exercise schedule is available, participate in a class format that is new to you, such as yoga, Pilates or core conditioning.
Pack a Workout Kit
This kit is essential if you can’t find time to make it to the gym. The ACSM recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of continuous exercise in order to maintain your health. However, even 10 minutes’ worth will have a positive effect on your mental outlook, more so than doing nothing at all.
The following items are a must for your kit. They are lightweight and take up very little room in your suitcase.
- Resistance tubing/bands for resistance training
- Jump rope for a quick cardio workout
- Water bottle to keep you hydrated
- Bonus: Create a special travel playlist to motivate you during your workout
Another must-have for fit travel is the new Spinning® App! You can take the Spinning® App with you on your mobile phone or tablet and ride on any bike, wherever life takes you. (Your ride history and personal data stays with you, on your app and on the web-based Spinning® Dashboard.) So there, there and everywhere - you can always stay fit. Learn all about the new Spinning® app here!
Eat healthy Snacks and Meals
There is nothing more tempting than the candy bar in the mini-fridge. Curb your temptations by having healthy snacks readily available in your room. Visit the local grocery store to purchase a few items or pack pre-made portioned snacks such as almonds, raisins, precut veggies and fruit. Don’t go overboard when eating out. Drink water frequently (especially after a flight) to keep hydrated.
