Top Summertime Travel Tips
Summer is here….
By far, one of my favorite seasons! Longer and brighter days, warm temps and a routine that shifts into “chill mode”.. these are just a few of the reasons why summer makes me happy!
Soon, I'll be leaving on a trip to Europe and so my summer will kick off with travel, new sites and delicious food too… I seriously can’t wait. No laptop, no dishes to wash, no schedule!
And while I’ve been gearing up for my trip, I’ve had some clients who are doing the same thing,.. getting ready for their summer travel. And so they ask me… what workouts should I do while on vacay? What about restos and food choices? What should I do, Lisa?
I wouldn’t say they’re worried about it but definitely concerned that their hard work and diligence will all be wiped away because of a 2 week hiatus.
So here’s what I typically advise when travelling…
Don’t panic… if you’ve been training for longer than 6 months and take a 2 week break, that short hiatus won’t erase ALL of your efforts and strength gains. Your body has more resilience than that. Your muscles can and will sustain this :)
Do the basics well… drink water and move (walk as much as possible) It doesn’t seem like much but these 2 combined together can help with water retention, restore energy in hot temps and are easy to implement.
Don’t forget protein… of course I’ll mention this one. To preserve muscle tissue, protein is needed, so try at the very least to consume protein sources at breakfast. Often social stuff happens in the evening which may or may not have protein-centric fare. So frontload your protein by starting the day with yogurt or eggs.
Workout …ONLY if you want! I am not a coach who pushes the “you must train on vacation!” card. Cuz it really depends on so many factors! I personally don’t plan to train while away. This trip I’ll be taking is special with sites to see mixed in with some R&R. The gym, my barbell and kettlebells will always be there for me when I get back and I know that as soon as I do, I’ll be ready to lift again. But maybe for you, the idea of a workout… a run, an AMRAP or quick circuit while on vacay appeals to you, then I say go for it! Not to “erase” indulgent food or drink but because you believe it’ll make you feel more energized. There is no right or wrong way to do this one.
Sleep…ahh now this one is HUGE! If you’re out of town, sleep might be off a little. Not your bed, not your pillow, not your familiar noises. And so sleep can potentially be compromised somewhat. But as much as possible, try to get in some good sleep. Spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, walking, and relaxing… these are the ingredients to guarantee some good solid sleep! Cuz the idea is to come back rejuvenated, right?
Don’t procrastinate…when we take time off from training, we lose the momentum. Expect that to happen. But when you get back, it’s vital you don’t wait another couple of weeks to get back to your training routine. Squeeze in a workout the week you’re back just to get that momentum started again… you’ll feel better for it!
That’s it!
Part of a healthy lifestyle approach is balance. Knowing how to enjoy life’s pleasures, guilt-free and without obsessing. Enjoying downtime, giving your body a break, moving in ways that feel good, eating foods that are both delicious and satisfying and sleeping well… these are what make vacay enjoyable!
Do you have vacation plans this summer?
Will you be taking time off or packing your gym gear with you?
I’d love to know!
To your health,
Coach Lisa 💪
