How to Stay Fit on Vacation
Maintaining your fitness routine while on holiday can significantly enhance your overall health and enjoyment. Engaging in various cardio exercises does not necessarily mean spending time in a dull hotel gym. Instead, take advantage of your beautiful outdoor surroundings to combine fun and fitness under the sun.
Outdoor Activities for Fun and Fitness
Engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as water sports (e.g., kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding, kite surfing), hiking through scenic terrains, or swimming in your hotel pool. If you’re looking for a more social experience, consider group cycling excursions or tennis, where you can enjoy professional coaching regardless of your skill level.
The Importance of Staying Active
Interestingly, just two weeks of inactivity can lead to decreased muscle mass. Therefore, maintaining an exercise routine during your vacation can provide substantial benefits. You might feel that exercise isn’t for you; however, you may simply not have found the right activity yet. Trying something new while on holiday can be exciting and enjoyable in a relaxed environment. Embrace the sunshine and soak up that glorious vitamin D by jogging along a secluded beach.
Health Benefits of Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce cancer cell growth, control infections, lower inflammation, and improve bone density. Cycling offers the dual benefit of stunning views while building your leg muscles. Exploring water sports effectively tones the body, while practicing yoga or Pilates al fresco provides overall strengthening and balance. Remember, exercise should enhance your vacation rather than feel like a chore—consequently, it can improve your daily fitness routine upon your return home.
Exploring New Activities
Different holiday locations provide various fitness activities due to their unique landscapes, making it essential to explore what’s available in your chosen destination. For instance, you could go horseback riding in Alentejo, Portugal, try fly-fishing for trout in Patagonia, or hike through Tasmania’s breathtaking Bay of Fires while enjoying activities like camping and surfing.
Epic Hiking Experiences
Consider hiking the renowned Camino de Santiago in Spain, a historically significant pilgrimage that offers a variety of routes tailored to different experiences. Whether you opt for the challenging Camino del Norte along Spain’s northern coast or the shorter Camino Primitivo, both routes provide stunning scenery and a physical challenge suitable for most holiday schedules.
So, how will you stay fit on holiday?