7 Tips for Staying on Track While on Vacation

You know that we love a good rest day. Some of us here at DRYWORLD even live at the beach in a warm tropical place. Vacations are critical but can completely disrupt your fitness routine and derail your goals if you aren't careful. We all know that routine is a close friend of motivation. So, how do you beat being derailed while still enjoying some R&R? With a bit of planning and drive.

"It's going to be a journey. It's not a sprint to get in shape." — Kerri Walsh Jennings

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Here are seven tips to help you maintain your fitness regime while enjoying your vacation to its fullest.

Plan Ahead

Getting established in a new place can be a lot of work—especially if you're functioning in a different language. That means tracking down a gym, getting a membership, and so on, can take a lot of time and effort, which is likely the last thing you want to do on vacation. So, plan ahead. Before you depart, research the facilities available at your destination, be it a hotel gym, a nearby park, or a community center where you can work out. Search for studios and boot camps you're interested in, too. You can make fitness a fun experience and adventure! Knowing your options in advance makes incorporating exercise into your daily itinerary easier.

Pack Accordingly

Bring everything you need for a good sweat. That means running shoes, workout clothing, and even some light equipment like resistance bands or a jump rope. Having your gear on hand and in your room will eliminate any excuses for skipping workouts while on vacation. You can quite literally get a sweat on anywhere, even if it doesn't look exactly how it does at home. Trying out a HIIT routine is also a great way to get a quick 'and dirty yet effective workout (with minimal equipment) while on the road.

Set Realistic Goals

The truth is, you probably aren't going to crush your routine like you would if you were home—and that's okay! While staying committed to your goals is essential, it's also important to be realistic about what you can (and want) to achieve during your vacation. Adjust your expectations. For example, focus on maintaining your current fitness level rather than trying to make significant progress. Not only will you be able to be present and enjoy the point of your vacation (e.g., relaxation), but you'll also combat feelings of frustration and disappointment when you get home and haven't moved forward.

Do Something Active Every Day

Exploring a new place leaves plenty of room for physical activity, including checking out areas on foot, taking the stairs, and renting bicycles. Depending on your destination, adventure tours and activities like hiking, snorkeling, surfing, or paddleboarding can also check the fitness box while allowing you to capitalize on your vacation experience. Even all-inclusive resorts generally have fun toys and water sports equipment for rent. Plus, these days, you can find a yoga class almost anywhere. We're also big fans of the active rest day.

Schedule Workouts

Do you usually work out in the morning at home or at night? Keep that in the schedule during vacation! If you treat your workouts like an appointment in the daily itinerary, you'll stick to them. Be sure to take the path of least resistance to ensure it's easy. Maybe you work best in the mornings before the day begins or in the afternoon when you're back from the day and have yet to go out for dinner. Add the workout and stick to whatever time is the easiest for you and your schedule. Consistency and routine, even while away, will improve the likelihood of following through with your workout.

Eat Mindfully

Eating new food while traveling is one of the best experiences out there (in our opinion), but it doesn't mean you have to delve only into hefty desserts, greasy plates, and forego vegetables. Especially at an all-inclusive resort, it's easy to over-consume! Practice moderation and try to make healthy choices whenever possible. Opt for nutritious meals packed with whole foods. Think lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Try to balance out indulgent treats and be mindful of your portions. It's a great time to practice mindful eating… Eat slowly, chew thoughtfully, and pay attention to whether or not your body is actually hungry.

It's also crucial to stay hydrated! While you may be indulging in a few more beverages than you do at home (hola, margarita, mi amigo!), try to keep a full water bottle with you at all times and stick to rules like no drinking before you've worked out.

Practice Being Adaptable

Long story short, vacations are meant to be enjoyed, so it's okay if your fitness routine is more relaxed than at home. Embrace flexibility and be willing to adapt to unexpected changes to enjoy your vacation and being in a new place. Don't dwell on things like missing a workout or consuming a few extra calories in sweet treats. Instead, focus on finding where you can make healthier choices, take some additional steps, and enjoy your experience guilt-free. Need some help being in the moment and learning to adapt? Practice meditation and mindfulness!

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If you've planned accordingly, prepared with the right equipment, and are motivated to stay on track with your health and fitness goals while on vacation, you can achieve it! Be mindful, organized, and committed to your workouts while still letting yourself enjoy where you are. After all, vacations are critical to remaining motivated at home and giving your body (and mind!) a break. Savor every moment of your well-deserved getaway and bask in the beauty of movement from anywhere in the world. Then, find your start when you get back.

“You can motivate by fear, and you can motivate by reward, but both those methods are only temporary. The only lasting thing is self-motivation.” — Homer Rice