4 Strategies to maintain your athletic lifestyle on vacation and still enjoy your vacation

Off on an adventure

Today my wife and I are off on our first kid free vacation in almost 6 years! 

Vacations present a list of challenges when it comes to maintaining your athletic lifestyle. You’re in a new place, with a new routine, and without the comfort of your tried and true habits. But you want to maintain as much consistency as possible while you’re away.

It’s a trick problem that becomes easy to fix when you find the right perspective

Finding the right balance 

The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle taught us to value the idea of balance.

When talking about our instinct versus our reason for example, Aristotle gives space for us to indulge in what he calls our ‘lower virtues.’ This would be enjoying eating good food, consuming quality entertainment, giving into our libidos, etc… It’s ok for us to give in to these urges every once and awhile.

But you must balance those times with a consistent habit aimed at the higher virtues; reason and the attendant discipline that comes with restraining our natural impulses to comfort. 

4 Strategies

This is the balance that you need to strike on vacation with your athletic self.

You’re away to relax and enjoy new experiences. It’s not supposed to be exactly like it is at home. But you should do your best to bring a few good habits with you to keep balance between enjoying yourself and keeping consistent to your athletic self.

Here are the 4 strategies I’ll be following on my trip that I know will help you find the ideal balance for you.  

1.Choose Free Exercise Always 

When you have the choice between extra movement or convenience take the extra movement.

Take the stairs and avoid elevators and escalators. Carry your suitcase instead of rolling it on wheels. Take the long scenic route on a walk, you’re in a new place afterall! 

Little moves like this will add up over the many days you’ll be away. 

2.Plan active adventures 

Vacations are the perfect time to explore and get active.

Book a walking tour of the city you’re staying in. Plan a hike or activity in nature. Rent a bike and go sightseeing on your own or in a group. 

Use the chance to explore a way to get moving while enjoying the destination.

3.Bring your own gym 

You might not always have access to a gym but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring equipment that helps you keep active.

I never travel without my set of weighted jump ropes that fit easily into a carry on bag. Pick up a set of resistance bands if you’re worried about adding weight to your luggage. Even a pair of running shoes and some workout clothes will do, you can always do bodyweight workouts, go for a run, or find some fun places outside to workout.

If you actively pack to be active you’ll have one less excuse to go to.

4. Eat strategically 

You’re on vacation and want to enjoy yourself of course, but you can be strategic.

If you’re going out to fancy meals, indulging in local delicacies, or having a beverage or two make sure you counter that in your other meals. Look for high protein options at breakfast to help keep you filled up during a big day of exploring. Drink water often to save calories from drinks that you’d rather spend on other food.

Not every meal HAS to be healthy but some of your meals should be.

Takeaways 

Just because you’re away on vacation doesn’t mean you let all of your athletic habits slide.

What you’re aiming for here is moderation and balance. If you’re strict on your diet and exercise 51 weeks a year it’s ok to slide for week 52. Relaxation and rest are crucial components to living the good life.

But there are easy ways to keep consistent while enjoying a bit of R&R and these tips will help you strike the proper balance.