Vacation with the intent to be active

You don’t need to go away for vacation with the fear you’ll gain weight. I know a lot of people vacation to eat great food, drink great drinks and soak in all the tourist sights. That, or they want to sit and do nothing all day while enjoying some sunshine, water and probably great food and drink.

Both of these examples are destined to add a few pounds to your waist. You’re not working out like you normally do, you’re enjoying more processed foods than usual and you’re likely consuming more alcohol than you would at home.

Even if you already have your summer vacation booked, there’s a lot you can do to make sure that you’re staying active while you’re away. If you don’t have anything booked yet, here are some ideas to help you decide on a great location with tons of active options.

Vacations Near Water

If you’re vacationing near the beach, take surfing lessons or go bodyboarding for at least 30 minutes a day. Sailing is also a great option, as well as brisk walks on the boardwalk or a run along the water.

If you’re more of a still-water vacationer, sailing, water skiing, kayaking and paddleboarding are all great, active options. If you’re a good swimmer, you can also take a swim (with or without a kickboard). Just be sure you’re in a safe space away from motorboats!

Camping and Wilderness Excursions

Before you gather at the campfire for drinks and s’mores, take the family on a long hike or wilderness walk. Many parks and campsites have maps to help you find trails that are perfect for your family or fitness level. Larger organized campsites like KOAs often have a list of activities that are nearby. Things like cave hikes, nearby waterfalls or historical sites are fun to check out, and some campsites even have swimming pools, volleyball courts and basketball hoops, horseshoes and other on-site amenities.

Cruise Vacations

Counter those all-you-can-eat buffets with the cruise ship’s gym and swimming pools. When you’re out to sea, make it a point to visit the gym or get up early on the day’s you’re going to port. And no matter where you stop along the way, find active excursions when you get there. Visit the historical ruins, go on that paddle boat trip, go horseback riding or even swim in the natural pools wherever you happen to be.

City Vacations

Vacations in large cities can make it tough to be active because of the availability of mass transit. Be intentional about getting out and walking to your destinations, and take the stairs (versus the elevator or escalator) as much as possible. Many cities have great parks and green belts, so find time to go running or just play in the park for an afternoon. Maybe you’ll find some locals to play pick-up basketball or soccer with.

No matter where you go on vacation this year, know that if you have internet access, you have access to organized workouts through Beachbody On Demand. Be sure to check out the newest program, Mes de Mas, Beachbody’s first Spanish-language workout. It looks like a fun one! (Your work clothes will thank you when you return to reality!)