With Pro Trainer Kelvin Gary
Summer is finally here, and with it, that oft-anticipated word “vacation." Most of us count the days until our we’re on that beach or wandering that new city, but for many of us, there’s another thought that creeps slowly into mind: will I be able to keep up my workout routine while traveling?
Recent research shows that we’re taking far fewer vacations than we used to. We know that the benefits of time off can be instrumental to improving our mental and physical health, but many of us still find reasons not to go. Getting away from the gym shouldn’t be one of them.
We asked professional trainer Kelvin Gary to share his tips on how to stay active and healthy while on vacation, so you can get away without losing track of your fitness goals.
1. Plan Ahead
Research, research research. If you're going somewhere new, do some research about the location first. Is there a gym nearby? Are there outdoor activities that you can participate in? Get a short term membership or schedule outdoor activities ahead of time. Having a sense of obligation is crucial to making sure that you stay on point with what you've committed to.
2. Buddy Up
If you’re traveling with a friend or a partner, make some fun fitness plans together. Having an extra person to hold you accountable is a great way to stay active while traveling.
3. Get Outside
Getting away is a great excuse to not be tucked behind a wall or in an office. Look for activities like bike riding or outdoor yoga at your travel destination. There's nothing like working out where you can take in fresh air and absorb a little vitamin D in the process.
4. Eat Smart
Now, this might sound like I'm throwing all the fun out the window, but I'm not. What I'm saying is, while you're on vacation or traveling, try adhering to the 70/30 rule. Eat well 70% of the time and let yourself slide for 30% of the time. Plan those good meals as much as possible and let the good times roll when it's time to have fun.
5. Keep Your Ultimate Fitness Goal In Mind
If your endgame is to lose weight, don't let short-term deviations from your normal routine inhibit you from reaching your ultimate goal. The plan is still the plan. Don't use the excuse of “I don't have a gym.” Your body weight is enough, or bring a pair of cheap two dollar bands that can be used to create an awesome workout anywhere.
Time is also not an excuse. You only need 10 to 30 minutes a day to get an impactful workout. (See our latest piece on How to Get A Great Workout in Twenty Minutes for tips!) Find inspiration every day to get stronger and faster and, no matter where you are in the world, you’ll be one step closer towards reaching your goals.
Kelvin Gary is a professional trainer and the owner of Body Space Fitness NYC, a boutique personal training gym that specializes in private and semi-private training, as well as small group fitness classes in New York.