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How do you stay fit on the road? Whether you’re in a van or an RV, maintaining your health is important, but it can be difficult to find ways to do so while traveling. It doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve got some simple, effective ways that you can stay fit while on the road. Let’s jump in.
Is It Possible to Exercise While on the Road?
It’s not only possible to exercise while on the road, but it’s also fairly easy and enjoyable. A little knowledge, some planning, and variety are your best friends in making exercise a part of your everyday travel life.
The Benefits of Staying Fit While Traveling
There are several benefits to staying fit while traveling. You could reduce your stress, increase your energy levels, and even sleep better. Travel days are much better when you’re not stressed and have the energy to remain focused. This also makes your travel days safer.
The benefits of staying fit also roll into your everyday adventures. It’s much easier to make the most out of your travels when you have more energy and less stress. That long hike, bike ride, or day of walking through a new city are more enjoyable when you feel energetic.
5 Secrets to Staying Fit on the Road
There are many ways to stay fit on the road, but it all really boils down to a few basic principles. Let’s check them out.
1. Take Driving Breaks
This sounds insanely simple, and it is. If you’re driving for more than an hour or two, take time out to recharge your batteries.
Though it’s tempting to power through to your next location, it’s safer to take occasional breaks so that you can remain focused.
It’s also good to step out of the driver’s seat, stretch your legs, and get your circulation going. When sitting for hours, your circulation slows down, making you feel more lethargic and less focused.
Keep in Mind: If you often find yourself feeling tired when you’re driving, learning about and following the 2/2/2 rule can help.
2. Plan Outdoor Activities
Another great way to stay fit while on the road is to enjoy the great outdoors. After all, isn’t this why many of us decide on a traveling lifestyle in the first place? Numerous outdoor activities are not only beneficial but enjoyable.
Something as simple as walking around a new city or town instead of driving from location to location is a great health benefit.
It’s also a wonderful way to experience a new location and take in your surroundings.
Go for a bike ride. Take a hike. Walk a trail. Go fishing. Take a jog down a not-so-busy side road. You may be delighted by what you discover.
3. Bring Resistance Bands
A lot of people love the exhilaration of a resistance workout. But traveling with a bunch of heavy weightlifting equipment may not be all that practical for RVing.
However, resistance bands weigh next to nothing and provide a workout very similar to weight training.
A simple set of loop resistance bands offer different levels of resistance. You can use them to do everything from traditional biceps curls to rows to squats, offering a full-body workout.
Resistance bands are inexpensive and lightweight, making them great for travelers.
For those who want a more robust option, full resistance band systems give workouts more diversity.
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Products like the FlexFixx Portable Gym come with resistance bands that you can attach to a balance board. It also has different grip handles, a bar, and attachments that you can use in door frames (including a vehicle door frame).
Plus, it all fits in a compact portable carry bag that makes it easy to keep organized and store when not in use.
4. Avoid Overindulging by Pre-Planning Meals
One really simple way to remain fit is pre-planning meals. It isn’t as difficult to eat healthy if you plan ahead. Make a thought-out plan before grocery shopping.
This can be as simple as planning a few healthy meals and having the ingredients at the ready. But if you want to take it a step further, do a daily meal plan.
When you go out for dinner, you can choose healthier options. Most restaurants now have online menus that you can peruse ahead of time. This goes a long way toward staying fit when you can make sure there are some healthy options.
Portion control is another thing to remember when dining out. Restaurants tend to lean toward large portions. You can moderate this by splitting a meal with your partner or a friend.
If you’re flying solo, ask for a to-go box before you start your meal and divide the meal in half, saving the rest for another day. Not only is this healthier, but it can save money as well.
Pro Tip: When it’s a travel day, avoid empty calories from junk food and enjoy these 20 affordable and healthy road snacks instead.
5. Find Creative Workouts
There are several creative workouts that you can take advantage of while traveling. Many gyms, yoga studios, dance teachers, and other fitness-minded businesses offer a free class to try their services before you sign up.
This is a great way to add diversity to your routine while traveling. Go in and try the free class.
If you’re moving on, thank the instructor or owner for their time. If you’ll be in an area for a few days or weeks, ask if they offer a short-term, discounted option since your time with them will be limited.
Resources to Help You Stay Fit on the Road
With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to find information on how to stay fit. Whether you’re looking for exercise ideas, a way to track your progress, or meal planning advice, there are many options.
YouTube can be a great way to find workouts. Numerous professionals offer full workout routines you can try out with no risk. Some fantastic chefs offer instructions on healthy recipes.
Instagram is another good source for exercise and workout ideas. Companies and individual fitness experts frequently upload videos that show new exercises, yoga routines, and the like.
There are even apps that provide new exercise ideas, workout routines, fitness tracking, goal setting, meal planning, and healthy recipes, among other things. Many are even free. There’s no shortage of resources when it comes to staying fit while on the road.
Why Is It Important to Stay Fit on the Road?
It’s easy to fall into a routine that doesn’t include exercise. Travel days can be taxing. The more fit you are, the easier it is to remain focused and enjoy them, though. Plus, the healthier you are, the easier it is to deal with stress and the less taxing it is on your body and mind. You might even sleep better.
All of this adds up to a happier, less stressful life. And who doesn’t want that? So commit to doing just one of the steps we mentioned today. And then next week, add another. Eventually, you’ll build a routine that suits you and takes your health to a whole new level. Do you have any tips for staying fit while traveling?
Last update on 2024-10-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
