Whether we decide to put our feet up in front of the TV for a week, or go on a seven day hike around the country’s peaks and hills, we all have different opinions on whether or not holidays are the best time to try and keep fit. But the best way to exercise on holiday is to work it into our routine in such a way that it doesn’t become a task, rather, it complements our holiday routine. Otherwise, it really is not a holiday when you feel you are having to do something that is work.
If we are at a resort, there are so many ways that we can exercise on and off-site. A pool presents an ideal opportunity to cool off, play with our kids and burn calories at the same time. Tennis or squash courts are much the same. A game of squash with our loved ones on holiday may not feel like a workout but it most definitely is one.
Regardless of location, holidays also give us the perfect opportunity to mix it up and enjoy some physical activity in a different locale. If we are somewhere hot and sunny, a pre-sunrise walk or jog will burn calories and show us some amazing scenery. If we are in hills or mountains, the chances are we are there because we want to explore, in which case we’ve got some endurance walks right on our doorstep.
A psychological slant is needed with regards to building exercise into our holidays, as opposed to bolting it on alongside our plans. We need to put thought into what we can do to naturally exercise so that it becomes second nature and we do not see it as a task, rather something we are going to do anyway. There is nothing better than having walked 10,000 steps, taking in a few bars or tavernas and having put in a full day’s work out without busting a metaphorical sweat (even though we might bust a physical one!)
Enjoy your fitness routine, but make it so that you also enjoy your holiday.
