Vacation…a time to unwind, relax, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy a momentary escape from the hectiness of life. No matter where you go, trying out all of the yummy food and sipping on premium cocktails is one of the most looked forward to aspects of traveling. However, for many people, this part of vacation may conflict with their structured eating and exercise routine. Everyone wants to be able to zip up their shorts at the end of their trip right?
Well have no fear…here are some ways to stay on track both mentally and physically while soaking up the sun!
- Incorporate movement into your day
This may seem simple, but many of us will fall victim to brushing off physical activity while on vacation, even though we know it’s what makes our bodies feel our best! If you are vacationing on a beach, try to take a walk along the ocean with a friend or family member. This is an excellent way to catch-up or chit-chat while getting some movement in! Nothing beats the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, anyway.
Also, you can check out if your resort has a gym. Most resorts do and they are pretty nice! Set your alarm thirty minutes earlier to get into the weight room or hop on the treadmill! No one ever regrets a finished workout!
- Pack healthy snacks
Whether you are vacationing on the beach or in the mountains, having a healthy snack on hand cannot hurt! Throw a protein bar, a pre-packaged bag of nuts, an apple, or cut up vegetables into your bag! This will help you overcome that mid-day slump when something less nutritious is offered as a snack at your location.
- Plan activities that will get you moving
If this means organizing a family game of beach-volleyball or taking your friends on a morning hike, then so be it! Plan enjoyable activities that you can do with your friends and family that require some sort of physical movement. If you are vacationing with people who do not prioritize daily movement try to compromise with a well-deserved trip to the spa after a game of volleyball 😉
Pro tip: If the restaurant you are going to for dinner is within walking distance…do it! Save money on a cab while also getting those steps in!
- Listen to your body
Don’t feel pressured to order the pasta dish at dinner or the loaded corona on the beach just because everyone else around is. You are your own person, and you know what feels good for your own body and needs! So, order the salad, load it up, and don’t feel ashamed.
Pro tip: Check out the menu at the restaurant beforehand and pick out what you would get. This can help to make sure that you are aware of the food that you will be having and can help you plan to stay on track throughout the day. Likewise, do not be afraid to ask for substitutions. If you prefer a side salad instead of a side of fries…ask! Many restaurants will be happy to accommodate you.
On the other hand, if your body is craving that slice of pizza or that towering hamburger on the beach, go for it! Do not deprive yourself! Eat foods that will make you feel good both on the inside and the outside…sometimes all it takes is a hamburger to do that for you!
Remember that one meal, or one day of eating or exercising differently than usual will have no effect on your overall health and well-being in the long run.
- Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is as crucial as anything. Whether you are on an eight-hour flight or spending the day in the hot sun, you must ensure that you are drinking enough fluids. The consequences of limited fluid intake can result in headaches or fatigue. Travel with a water bottle and don’t forget to refill it!
- Don’t skip meals
If you have the mindset that you are going to skip breakfast and lunch to save calories for your dinner later, the chances of you over-eating later in the day are high. Instead, head over to the brunch buffet and start your day off on the right foot! Take advantage of the fruit, salads and whole grains available. Keeping your body properly fueled throughout the day will off-set the chance of you overindulging at dinner later that evening.
Most importantly…While on vacation with friends and family try to focus on the special time away from work and more on the memories that you are creating. Do not concentrate all of your energy on food and exercise. Vacation is a time to be present. So…live in the moment, eat the pasta, and enjoy the strawberry daiquiri, but also don’t forget to get some movement in as well! Life is all about balance.
Extra pro tip! Fitz’s exact formula for weight loss is another great way to keep track of your caloric intake to ensure that you are eating just the right amount of food to fuel your body during your travels. Check it out here: Exact formula for weight loss
