The word “vacation” typically means you sit around, relax, eat and drink all you want, and just forget about your normal day to day. While this is fun for a while, it makes getting back to reality way harder than it needs to be. If you keep up some of your activity, you’ll be thankful in the long run.
Why it’s important to workout on vacation
No Need to Reset
You know how hard it is to get back into the groove at the gym when you miss a few days. Ouch. By continuing your usual pattern of activity, you will be able to jump back into your normal routine when you return home.
It Will Make You Feel Better
Have you had your Apple Watch or activity tracker basically yell at you to “stand up” or “be active” when you go on vacation? No one likes that kind of notification. But, Siri is on to something. Sitting around for too long over so many days is not good for you. Standing up and moving will make you feel better, both mentally and physically.
It Can Relieve Stress
We know, vacation is a time to destress, but it doesn’t always happen that way. If you’re feeling stressed about being away from work or stress from being around your family 24/7 (😉), then take the time to workout. It is a great excuse to spend half an hour alone and will help you work out some of that energy.
You Love to Workout
Some people just really love to workout. If it is something you look forward to everyday, then get to it! Don’t feel like you have to take a rest day just because you’re on vacation. Do what makes you happy!
Tips
Plan Ahead
Be proactive about what you will have access to and what you will need to bring to get your workout in. With all of our programs being accessible online, it makes it easy to incorporate a run, ruck or online bodyweight/dumbbell workout.
Set Realistic Expectations
This is crucial. If you are on vacation for yourself or with family, you need to make sure you are not taking away from enjoying the time purposefully planned. However, there is certainly time for both! Feel free to double dip here… walking tours, skiing down the slopes, a beach stroll with the family, getting a few laps done in the pool, etc. Activity is activity. If you are one who usually touts a full schedule and would like to relax more than anything, try scheduling 30-45 min of activity a day. You will feel better, we promise!
Find a Workout Pal
Whether it’s who you are traveling with or who you will connect with, a workout buddy will hold you accountable and make it fun. They don't even have to be with you! Have a friend (or a coach) from the LAB help hold you accountable. It’ll make all the difference.
Vacations do not have to halt your progress. With preparation and creativity, you can get in a workout while enjoying your vacation.
What to Pack
Remember, a lot of hotels and resorts have fitness rooms, so you might have the whole gym setup! If not, this list is easy to pack so you can get some bodyweight workouts in. If you’re driving, you can even throw some dumbbells or your Ruck in the back of your car!
Workout clothes
Running shoes
Apple Watch/Garmin/Smart Watch
AirPods/Headphones
Resistance Bands
Lacrosse Ball or Foam Roller
If you don’t want to workout on vacation, that’s okay too. We’ll be here when you get back to help you jump right back in!
Spotify Playlists to follow
Coach Isis’ 45min Workout
Coach Lee’s Vacation Playlist
Spotify’s Raising the Bar
