Exercising whilst on Holiday

We all look forward to our holiday time. Relaxing on a beach, or searching out local temples, marketplaces, bazaars or a city break. If away for an extended time and are used to working out a few times a week, then it stands to reason that you may get a bit twitchy that you exercise plan may suffer.

But I am here to share a few tips that I have learnt and practised whilst I have been away, be in a beach environment, hotel room, balcony or veranda, there are always exercises that can be done, to maintain fitness levels and muscle health.

Firstly, we can identify the resources that you have to hand that can help you in a workout. We (mostly) all have a phone, and phones will have a stopwatch, and this can be put to use in a HIIT workout. Download apps that are specifically for HIIT training, can be used if present on your phone. So, we have a timer, now we also need some weight for resistance training to compliment your cardio training, or to be used within it. Luckily, weight is always at hand………. Literally. Body weight is always with you and can be utilised in many different ways. From push ups, to burpees, to tricep dips, to shoulder presses in a high push up position.

But we are also carting around extra weight and dependent on your destination and length of holiday, then this could vary dramatically. This extra weight is your luggage, be it clothes, boots, shoes, cameras, other electronics and toiletries. This can all add up to some substantial weight and can be broken down into a more desired weight, by using rucksacks and even just leaving in situ in your suitcase. A bicep curl can be done with a loaded day rucksack! Put your loaded main rucksack on your back, for some weighted squats.

Chairs and steps in your room, on the balcony or veranda can be used for tricep dips, incline and decline push ups, calf raises, step ups to name a few, or used for balance to aid in exercises and stretching. Beaches and balconies are also great for some yoga, meditation or a good old relax.

Depending on the location you are holidaying, then you can make use of some great terrain. Beaches are great, as the sand adds extra difficulty to running. There may also be some sand dunes to use for hill climbs and shuttle runs. Snow can be the same, although a little more treacherous underfoot! Woodlands and forest are great for walks and rambles through nature. The sea and pools can be used for good old-fashioned swimming, or aqua aerobics and a variety of other water sports. Maybe, just maybe your hotel, b&b, resort has a gym and you can make use of that. Easy!

But the main point to remember is that you are on holiday. Perhaps you may be in training for an event which dictates that you must train whilst away to the level that you were at home. Perhaps you just want to keep your eye in as it were, and make sure those extra holiday food and drink calories are not taking their toll. If you are away skiing or on a walking, active or adventure type holiday, then chances are you are getting the exercise that you require whilst burning away those calories and maintaining muscle mass and strength. The key thing is, don’t sweat the small stuff, a holiday is a holiday, but as illustrated above, there are ways to incorporate what you carry, along with yourself into very effective and worthwhile workouts.

Luckily, I do like a good holiday, and have incorporated the above when I feel I need a workout.

Get in touch for advice and tips, on working out whilst on holiday.

Ben Beale is a mobile Personal Trainer living In Paulton, who travels out to clients in the surrounding towns and villages, and cities of Bath and Bristol.