Finding the time and motivation to work out during holidays can be tough. Whether it’s a sudden work trip or weekend getaway, the change in routine and environment can make it difficult to stick to small activities you may normally make time for in your daily life. Whilst training around the holiday period may look a little different to normal, it doesn’t have to require huge fitness losses.
Here are some tips to help you with holiday habits to stay on top of your health journey and overall mindset – even when you’re halfway around the world!
1. Pack wisely
Expect healthy snacks will be few and far between, and add some to your packing list. Having snacks on hand will ensure that you aren’t tempted to reach for sugary alternatives. Keep a small container of nuts and seeds in your bag. They won’t spoil and are full of healthy, satiating fats. Low fructose fruits, vegetable sticks and edamame beans are also great travel-ready options that are full of fiber.
2. Yay, buffet!
Hotel buffets are an easy calorie trap. But before you go back for seconds, and thirds, ask yourself this question – would you usually have a bowl of cereal, toast, bacon, eggs and a side of pancakes for breakfast at home? Sometimes it’s just a matter of making the right choices; opt for poached eggs instead of fried, choose plain yogurt over flavored, avoid juices and go for fresh fruit.
3. Walk it off
Skip the Uber ride and walk instead. Walking will get you moving and burn more calories, especially if you don’t have access to a gym or have a jam-packed work schedule. Try walking to and from meetings, take the stairs instead of using elevators, or find a scenic spot to hike and explore your surroundings. Booking a hotel with gym access is another great way to keep up your exercise regime if you’re traveling during the Challenge. Most hotel gyms will have a treadmill, dumbbells and some basic gym equipment to knock out a quick workout.
4. Keep it simple
Dining out is part of traveling. Just because you can’t cook your own meals doesn’t mean you can’t make healthy choices to stay on track to achieving your goals. The trick is to keep it simple. Order a grilled steak, chicken or fish with a side of vegetables. Skip the calorific dressings and instead ask for a side of olive oil to dress your own salad, avoid anything deep-fried or battered, and opt for tomato-based sauces over cream or butter-based sauces. Remember to practice what you have learned so far about portion sizes from cooking the Challenge recipes or eating the Challenge prepared meals- sticking to similar portion sizes will ensure that you are staying within the meal plan calorie guidelines.
Now take a deep breath and get out there!
5. Set realistic goals
When everyone is kicking back and relaxing, it may not be sustainable to keep up the rigorous diet and training regime. Be aware of this and set your expectations for what your progress will look like during this period. For example, you may be away from the gym and not be able to attend any classes, so it’s likely your strength goals may be put on pause for a moment. It is important to recognize this and factor your fitness goals into this for a realistic idea of what you can achieve. You may need to push out your strength goals by a few weeks to cater to the holiday period.
6. Switch up your exercise regime
Whilst you spend time out of your daily schedule, make use of the different activities you have available. Whether you are going for a kayak along the lake or a walk along a new trail, these exciting and new adventures are all active activities that will make your body feel good and keep active. You may even discover a new hobby!
7. Eat flexibly – and mindfully
The holidays bring gatherings, parties and meals where you don’t have control over your food. In these circumstances, we recommend you take a flexible and mindful eating approach.
8. Try a travel workout
If you are still craving a workout while traveling but are lost as to what you should do – don’t forget you have an endless library of workouts at your fingertips on the F45 Challenge App. There are both weighted and non-weighted options available to suit whatever equipment you may have on hand! This can be accessed through the ‘TRAIN’ tab in the challenge app.
Remember, working out should always be an enjoyable experience, enjoying the process is what will drive long-term commitment and results. It is okay to take a break from your strict schedule sometimes and relax with loved ones. These tips should help you keep on track and ready to continue smashing your goals!
