Are you worried about how to keep up with your fitness routine while indulging in the adventure of travel? You’re not alone. A Reddit user shares the same concern about staying fit while backpacking across Europe for a month and a half. The challenge of maintaining muscle tone and avoiding unwanted weight gain is real when you’re constantly on the move, sampling new foods, and possibly lacking access to your usual workout equipment. Let’s explore some tried and true strategies to stay on track with your fitness goals, even as you hop from one hostel to the next. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or setting out on your first trip, these tips will help you enjoy your travels without compromising on your health.
1. Engage in Active Tourism
Active tourism is an excellent way to explore a new city and maintain your fitness. By using apps like MapMyRun, you can plan routes that pass by major landmarks and attractions. Start your day with a sunrise run along the River Seine in Paris, taking in the iconic sights of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, or enjoy a power walk in Central Park, New York, where the greenery provides a refreshing backdrop to the city’s pulse. This approach not only gives you an invigorating workout but also allows you to experience the destination in a unique and personal way.
2. Utilize Local Environment and Infrastructure
The local environment can provide a natural and exciting workout space. Beach destinations offer a playground for fitness enthusiasts; take Bondi Beach in Australia as an example, where you can swim, surf, or join a game of beach volleyball. In urban settings, look for outdoor gyms, like the ones in Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana, which offer equipment for strength training with a view. Using the environment not only provides variety in your workouts but also helps you connect with the local community.
3. Participate in Local Fitness Classes
Experiencing local fitness classes is a great way to stay active while immersing yourself in the culture. In cities like London or Tokyo, pop into a one-time class at a boutique fitness studio and try out trending workouts like spin or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) at well-known places such as Barry’s Bootcamp or SoulCycle. Alternatively, take part in the local culture with activities like learning capoeira in Brazil or taking Muay Thai classes in Thailand. These culturally unique workouts offer a high level of intensity and the opportunity to learn something new while staying fit.
4. Portable Fitness Equipment
Travel doesn’t mean you have to leave your workout routine at home. Portable fitness equipment like resistance bands, jump ropes, or a TRX suspension trainer are travel-friendly and can be used almost anywhere, from your hotel room to a nearby park. Pair these with fitness apps such for guided sessions tailored to your preferences and fitness level. This ensures that you can have an effective workout no matter where you are, without having to rely on gym availability.
5. Temporary Gym Memberships or Multi-Gym Passes
For those spending more time in one location, a temporary gym membership or a multi-gym pass is ideal. Platforms like ClassPass or TrainAway offer access to a network of gyms and fitness studios, providing flexibility and variety. With ClassPass, for example, you can attend classes in different cities around the world, from Los Angeles to Singapore to Berlin. This option is perfect for travelers who want to maintain a regular workout schedule and enjoy the amenities of a fully-equipped gym while away from home.
