Am i the only one who loses weight on vacation ?? With all the free time i find it easier to do more of what i love - yoga, run, workout. However all that activity can be sabotaged without a little mindful prep and motivation.
This time of year people look forward to the VA-CAY ! - relax, unwind and enjoy some sun, and although i am a big fan of folks taking a step back from the daily grind - it doesn't mean leaving your healthy-self behind. Here are some tips to keep motivated, workouts to do anywhere and some items to bring with you so you don't bring back 8 extras pounds.
Numero uno : HAVE A PLAN !
My A-type friend says "failing to plan is planning to fail". Decide now - when and where you will work out. Research your hotel or the area you will be staying for gym facilities nearby. Most hotels or resorts have fitness centres and some offer classes like yoga or water aerobics along with lei making and basket weaving.
Anywhere in the world.....
Check out run routes near by at runmyroute.com and print off the routes before you go. Brilliant new workouts are available right on your phone thru apps like my favorite Nike Training. These can be done poolside, on your balcony or in your hotel's fitness centre.
Bringing you lap top or ipad or playbook ?
Tons of websites online offer yoga videos for all levels some even have downloadable preview or free trial memberships that allow access to video libraries. Bodyripped.net offers free videos with a comprehensive descriptions that change daily. They are short but tough workouts requiring minimal equipment that will challenge and inspire you.
Be Prepared means bringing along the good stuff !
Even if you are flying first class, airline food can be less then fresh. Pack snacks like portioned raw almonds (12= 100 calories), apples or cut veggies. When you arrive check out the hotel restaurant menu or room service in your hotel. Look for local flavor minus the battered, fried, or rich sauces and choose or request grilled or steamed. It may not seem like your "living it up" but you will definitely feel better in your bikini the following day - think ahead and make it a conscious choice.
You can also request a room with a small refrigerator. Pick up healthy crackers, fresh fruit and veggies at a local farmers market or grocer and pack your fridge with healthy snacks and bottled water to grab on the go. If you can satiate yourself with small snacks through out the day you are less likely to eat a huge meal at dinner because you felt deprived or starving.
Lightweight items such as : a skipping rope, resistance bands or a yoga mat can really come in handy while away. You can skip most anywhere and even twice a day for 15 minutes can give your metabolism a blast to fend off storing that Margarita you know where. The last two vacations to Europe and Hawaii i brought my yoga mat and skipping rope and was grateful to my healthy minded self for doing so. I stretched and did ab routines in hotel rooms and on the beach with the help of my yoga mat.
MOTI-VACATION ! Plan, prepare and then.... get really excited about it !!
Buy a new bikini and look forward to feeling proud to wear it. If you arent there yet - start to by thinking to yourself that you are looking better and better in it by working out before putting it on.
Get your girlfriend or special someone involved, like the Jack Johnson song - everything is better together ! Sign yourselves up for beach volleyball or a walking tour of the area, ask the activities director what other active sports or tours they offer or ask the consierge for a map of local hiking spots.
Plan your workouts and remember - you are numero uno :) it's your vacation - you get to decide how you spend it. Do not let food and drink dominate your experience - branch out try something new !!Chances are you are not going to run into anybody you know if you fear looking like a clutz. Leaving the familiar provides you with an opportunity to drop your inhibitions and step out of your "comfort zone" - always wanted to play waterpolo in your bikini ? Do it ! Dare yourself to have some fun while burning calories at the same time and return with a refreshed perspective on yourself and the world ! Don't forget your workout wear !!
Health and happiness, Erin
