Add Exercise to Vacation, Prevent Gaining Weight

Gaining weight on vacation is the last thing most people want to do, but it often happens.

Relax, staying fit during vacation isn’t that hard. Just make sure you come up with ways to exercise. After all, it could help you relax. That’s because exercise promotes good sleep, decreases anxiety and makes people feel emotionally better.

If that doesn’t encourage you to pack your cross trainers or running shoes, remember all the other health benefits to exercise. Working out helps people prevent gaining weight, reduces the risk for heart disease and strengthens bones,  muscles and joints. Exercise can also cut your risk for 13 different cancers, a recent study finds.

Start making plans before you close your suitcase. That’s the first step to sticking to your exercise routine, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Prevent Gaining Weight on Vacation

Here are more tips for travelers from the NIA:

• Pack your workout gear. Find places to exercises before you go on vacation. Call your hotel to see if they have a gym on site.
• Take breaks to walk if you’re driving or stuck at the airport during a layover. People who are traveling by car – especially drivers – should stop often to stretch or walk around. This is a great way to help drivers stay alert.
• Build walking into your vacation. Arrange for sightseeing tours that include walking. Explore the sights on foot instead of by car or bus. If you’re visiting friends or staying at a hotel, ask about local parks and walking trails. Shopping malls make a great place to walk if it’s raining or the weather is too hot or too cold outside.
• Check out local exercise facilities near your lodging. Some hotels may have guest membership privileges at nearly fitness centers. Taking a cruise? Check out the exercise classes on board for passengers. Try a yoga or Zumba® classes.
• Finally, stick to your exercise routine as much as possible. If you like to work out in the morning, keep that going.

Sources: National Cancer Institute, Go4Life®, National Institute on Aging at National Institutes of Health

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