When you’re planning a vacation, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. After all, vacations are meant for relaxation, adventure, and a break from the routine. But what if keeping up with your workout routine could actually make your vacation better? Let’s look at the pros and cons of working out while on vacation from every angle to help you decide what’s best for you.
The Benefits of Working Out on Vacation
1. Staying Active
One great reason to exercise on vacation is to keep your body moving. Regular exercise can help you feel good and maintain your fitness. By sticking to your routine, you’ll come back home feeling refreshed and energized.
2. Feeling Good Mentally
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. It releases endorphins, which make you feel happier. Vacations can sometimes be a bit stressful due to travel plans and new places. A quick workout can help manage this stress, making your vacation more enjoyable.
3. Exploring New Places
Working out doesn’t have to mean hitting the hotel gym. Vacation is a perfect time to try new ways to stay active. You can run on the beach, hike a trail, take a yoga class, or rent a bike to explore the city. These activities keep you fit and let you see your destination in a fun way.
4. Keeping a Routine
For many people, having a routine is important for their well-being. If you do well with structure, keeping workouts in your vacation can make you feel more grounded. This can be especially helpful if you’re on a long trip and don’t want to feel like you’re starting from scratch when you get home.
The Drawbacks of Working Out on Vacation
1. Interrupting Relaxation
One of the main arguments against working out on vacation is that it can interrupt your relaxation time. If your daily life is full of responsibilities, taking a break from your workout might be what you need to fully relax and recharge.
2. Time Constraints
Vacation plans can be packed with sightseeing, activities, and socializing. Finding time to fit in a workout can be hard and might feel like an added stress rather than a benefit. Plus, you might want to spend your time exploring instead of working out.
3. Limited Facilities
Not all vacation spots have good workout facilities. Some hotels and resorts offer gyms, but others don’t. Outdoor workouts depend on the weather, and finding a place to exercise can be inconvenient, taking away from your vacation time.
4. Risk of Overdoing It
Vacations often involve more physical activity than usual, like walking around a new city, swimming, or adventure sports. Adding a workout on top of these activities can lead to overdoing it, making you more prone to injury or exhaustion.
Finding a Balance
Given the pros and cons, finding a balance that works for you is key. Here are some tips to help you fit workouts into your vacation in a way that adds to your experience:
1. Plan Ahead
Before you leave, check out what workout options are available at your destination. Pack the right workout gear and plan your activities. If you know you’ll be walking a lot, maybe skip your usual cardio routine and do some strength training or stretching instead.
2. Set Realistic Goals
Adjust your workout goals for your vacation. Instead of aiming for a full hour at the gym, consider shorter workouts that can be done in 20-30 minutes. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can be a great way to get an effective workout in a short time.
3. Make Activity Part of Your Plans
Look for activities that double as workouts. Hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even dancing can be great ways to stay active while having fun. This way, you’re not taking time away from your vacation to exercise but adding fitness into your activities.
4. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you’re tired from a day of sightseeing or adventure sports, give yourself a break from working out. Rest and recovery are important, and your body might benefit more from a break than from pushing through a workout when you’re exhausted.
5. Make It Social
Invite your travel buddies to join you in a workout. This can make exercise more enjoyable and less of a chore. Whether it’s a morning yoga session, a group run, or a beach volleyball game, working out together can be a fun way to bond and stay active.
Deciding whether or not to work out on vacation is a personal choice that depends on your fitness goals, vacation plans, and preferences. For some, keeping up with their workout routine is crucial for their well-being, while for others, taking a break from exercise can be just as beneficial. The key is to find a balance that lets you enjoy your vacation while staying true to your health and fitness goals. By planning ahead, setting realistic expectations, and making activity part of your plans, you can make the most of your vacation without giving up on your fitness!
If you’re looking for some inspiration to stay active on your next trip, download our free ebook, “Back Pocket Travel Workouts.” It’s a free digital ebook full of exercises and routines that you can do while on vacation. Whether you’re in a hotel room, on the beach, or exploring a new city, these workouts are designed to fit into your travel plans and keep you moving!
