Working out on vacation can feel like a chore. When I’m at home and in my routine, I find it sooo much easier to exercise. When I’m on vacation, however, I often find myself wishing I was doing more to stay active. I always feel better when I move my body! For that reason, this post is partially for you and partially for me to get my butt back in gear. ; ) Here are 5 easy vacation workouts that I hope will inspire movement!
1. Run, walk, or hike
Running is one of my primary sources of fitness (and sanity) at home, but I don’t feel comfortable doing it alone in foreign countries. It just isn’t as popular or common in some places. When I do find a running buddy, I pick a safe path and try to get in 5k or 30 minutes of cardio.
If you’re not a runner, why not go for a walk? There are free walking tours in nearly every big city which can be a great way to meet other travelers. I’ve often learned more about a place listening to a local during a walking tour than I have in a guide book. My guide in Medellin was around my age and lived there during the Pablo Escobar years. It was so sad yet informative to hear what had happened to a local family firsthand.
If you’re more of a nature lover or find yourself somewhere a bit more off the grid, find a local hike! It doesn’t have to be an all day endeavor up a volcano or mountain. Some of the best hikes I’ve done have been easy ones with friends.
2. Swim or Surf
If you’re near the beach, a lake, river, or pool (and know how to swim), hop in and go for a dip! I don’t travel with goggles so it’s hard to swim laps. Try these moves instead: run in and out of the ocean with high knees, tread water in a pool, try to swim upstream in the river (if it’s safe!)
Surfing is a really fun activity if you’re looking for a bit more adventure. I have to take lessons every time I go out because I am an extreme beginner, but it’s always worth it.
3. Yoga
One of my favorite workouts, I love how this one can go with you anywhere. Inquire about local classes in the city or see if they offer yoga at your hostel/hotel/resort/private island. If you can’t find a class, don’t fret! There are plenty of online courses on YouTube or check out Cody. They have an assortment of free classes for all levels from a variety of instructors.
4. Ride a bike
Renting a bicycle can be the perfect way to explore a new area and it might not even feel like a “workout” while you’re doing it…You’ll feel like a kid again! Grab a buddy and rent a bike from a local shop or hostel, or go solo like I did when I explored Ometepe Island, Nicaragua.
5. Bedroom circuit
If exercising outdoors isn’t an option, or if you just want to get it over with in the privacy of your own room, try a mini circuit that doesn’t take up any space! There are plenty of equipment free workouts available on Cody, YouTube and Pinterest. You can also come up with your own basic circuit and include moves like burpies, jumping jacks, squats, push-ups, and stretching. Check out this one Self Magazine that I’ve drawn inspiration from! It’s only 7 moves, and they can be done anywhere.
What do you think of these 5 easy vacation workouts? I know I always always always feel better after a good sweat.
What other ideas do you have for easy vacation workouts? Let me know!
