People don’t typically plan to do any work or complete major chores while on a family holiday. However, there are still a few things that you need to keep up with while you’re on your R&R trip. One of these is your exercise routine. After all, going on a vacation with your partner and kids doesn’t mean that you should let yourself go. Even if you’re having a good time, just binging on good food all the time or lying down by the beach all day won’t be healthy for you.
The good news is that there are plenty of avenues that you can use to keep yourself and your family members fit while you’re a long way from home. Here are some ideas of what you can do to keep your family’s fitness level up during your vacay:
Wear and Bring Some Activewear Along
To maximize your opportunities to stay fit during your holiday, it’s a good idea to wear and pack comfy clothes such as moisture-wicking tops and bottoms. If you’re still on your way to your preferred resort, for example, it’s best to wear comfortable socks for women, men, and children. Ideally, these socks should offer adequate cushioning and graduated compression. With these kinds of clothes, you can be sure to travel comfortably and you’ll be prepared to choose a more active lifestyle even while on a holiday.
Adopt a “Healthy Living” Mindset Even While on Vacation
If you’re intent on keeping up with your fitness routine while on a holiday, staying active and eating healthy should be integral aspects of your vacation plans. For example, when presented with the option, you can walk instead of taking a moving walkway, use the stairs instead of the elevator, and choose healthier local meal options instead of your typical processed food items.
Doing these will not only help you stay fit. In fact, they can also serve as a great example for the younger members of your family. Seeing you make these intentional choices sets a solid foundation that your kids can emulate to live a healthier lifestyle.
Sightsee on Foot Instead of Taking Taxis
If your holiday plans include going to different places and seeing local sites, then try to plot an itinerary that allows you to walk from one place to another. This can be a healthier option compared to relying on taxi rides. Choosing destinations that are just within walking distance from each other will give you the chance to stretch your legs and burn a few more calories. In addition, this will enable you to explore the place further and see beyond the typical views that tourists have access to.
Choose Restaurants Near Your Hotel
In the same vein, choosing a restaurant that is just within walking distance from your accommodation is a good option if you want to walk a bit more. Walking after a hearty meal is also a great way to get a few steps in and keep your blood sugar down in case you happen to have overindulged while at the restaurant. Instead of taking a cab and getting back to your hotel feeling extra full, you can walk slowly and enjoy the surrounding scenery. This way, you can burn a few calories and even feel better once you reach your accommodation.
Use Terminals as Walking Tracks
Traveling to and from your holiday venue is a challenge when you have children with you. On one hand, a trip will likely excite the kids, as this will expose them to sights and sounds that they hardly encounter from the comfort of your home. On another, kids tend to quickly use up their energy during vacations and can get irritable when they’re extremely tired.
If you’re in a terminal and waiting for a connecting flight, bus, or rental vehicle, you may have to deal with bored kids who have little to no outlet to express their feelings. In this case, it’s a good idea to use the terminal as a walking track to stave off boredom and eliminate their excess energy before the trip. This also serves as a good chance to promote proper blood flow before a long flight or drive.
Plot the Places Where You Can Exercise
Does the hotel where you plan to stay have a gym? Does the resort where you’ll be spending the weekend offer a yoga class? If yes, take advantage of these facilities and programs to maintain your exercise routine or to pick up a new hobby that will keep you active and moving. Alternatively, you can consult with a luxury travel concierge for insider knowledge on the best walkable areas in the vicinity, allowing you to make the most of your leisure time and explore the local scene. Alternatively, if walking is your thing, then there are plenty of walking vacations in Europe which you and your whole family can enjoy together.
Exercise Early and Stay Hydrated
If your destination is a place that’s warmer than what you’re used to, avoid the heat and do your explorations and exercises early in the morning. This allows you to avoid dehydration, reduce your chances of getting heat-induced health conditions, and prevent you from getting sunburned.
Additionally, no matter what time you plan to leave your hotel and go sightseeing, be sure to bring enough water for everyone in your party. You should also make sure that you’re all adequately dressed for the temperature in the area. This way, you and your family can stay comfy and active enough to pursue choices and activities that will keep everyone fit and healthy.
Planning a family holiday means setting aside enough time for your loved ones to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. It’s a period of focusing on creating happy memories that you’ll cherish and talk about for the coming years. It’s also a great time for eating well, stopping to smell the roses, and perhaps reflecting on how fast time flies and where life will likely take you in the next few years.
Enjoy this time well, but make it a point to still care for your body through exercising and eating healthy. Follow the tips mentioned above, and you’ll have an easier time maintaining your physical health during your holiday.
