If you’re a frequent business traveller, or if you plan on seasonal travelling with your family, there are certain things you need to commit to in order to stay fit while travelling.
For starters, you must understand what your body needs so you can stay balanced and be at your best, especially when you’re away from home.
Samantha Clayton, Vice-President of Worldwide Sports Performance and Fitness at Herbalife, has compiled six interesting way to keep fit while travelling, as the sudden changes in your schedule can wreak havoc on your weight management and fitness plan.
Tips on how to stay healthy while travelling
- Pack early to squeeze in a workout
Don’t wait until the day of, or even the day before you travel to pack your bag. Pack a few days in advance so you can save the day before you leave to squeeze in a workout. Plan your week and adjust your workout routine so that your travel day becomes your scheduled rest day.
- Get organised to avoid airport stress
Stress is one of the main culprits that lead to poor eating and fitness disruption. “My advice is to get organised to limit your stress. You know that getting through security at the airport is a stressful process, so ensure that all of your liquids are the right size and within easy reach.” Keep your travel bag organised, and pack a few healthy snacks so that you aren’t tempted by the junk food available at airport terminals.
- Travel essentials to stay rested and ready
Arriving at your destination feeling relaxed is important if you want to get your workout routine up and running right away. Some travel essentials you should remember to pack are earplugs, eye mask, flight socks to help with blood circulation in your legs, a neck pillow and a warm sweater. “These items may weigh you down a little, but trust me, travelling with some of your own comforts can provide a pleasant relief from listening to loud conversations or not being able to rest because the light’s in your eyes. Not to mention that exercising will be the last thing on your mind if your neck is stiff when you land,” says Clayton.
- Set yourself up for success
Always remember to pack your workout clothes and shoes so you can stay fit while you’re away. Sounds simple, but this is something that people often forget while travelling. In fact, you can keep a spare set of workout clothes in your carry-on bag. You never know when surprises like someone spilling a drink on you might occur. Workout clothes are lightweight and practical. Just think that if your checked bag goes missing, you won’t have an excuse for missing a workout.
- Nutrition on the go
Hydration is the most important thing to remember when you travel. Dehydration can affect your skin, your energy level, and it can lead to headaches and negatively impact your digestive system.
Given the risk of travel delays, you could ruin your healthy eating plan if you’re not prepared. Pack nutrient-rich snacks in your bag, such as nuts or protein bars, to help keep you full and away from unhealthy choices. With time changes, you’ll want to keep your body fueled throughout the day to avoid binging at meal times due to excessive hunger.
- Create an in-room workout
Fitting in some exercise during your trip may help you to sleep better and be more mentally alert in your activities. If going to the gym is not possible, simply commit to a quick 20-minute routine in your room in the morning and a 10-minute stretch at night.
by Phathu Luvhengo
