The gym is an important part of your life if you’re going to try and keep yourself in shape. A week away and you’re getting withdrawal symptoms. Even if you’re looking to become a fitness instructor or personal trainer to make your love for health and fitness a career goal, you need to take a break. Most of us can let things slip at Christmas and New Year then push ourselves harder at the start of the year, but it’s also whilst on holiday that that hard work in the gym can go to waste… or to your waist.
Here we’ve got a few tips on how to keep yourself trim during your summer holiday.
Limit your alcohol intake
It’s difficult to do this on your holiday. We’re not telling you to stay in and be a recluse on your time away, but it pays to try and keep on top of your alcohol intake, even when those around you are indulging.
Keep yourself hydrated
Especially if heading to warmer climes, it’s important to keep as hydrated as possible. Drinking water with a meal isn’t great for digestion so limit how much you drink at meal times, but keep yourself as hydrated as you can throughout the day. If you’re trying to stop yourself over-eating in the evening, a glass of water before you dine will also help suppress your appetite.
Balance out your meals
It’s easy to let your healthy diet slip when you’re on holiday, but there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy your food whilst away, but still maintain it. Keep a balance between protein and carbs. If you want your protein fix, go for white meat sources like chicken, turkey and fish as these are healthier than red meat. Try and make up the rest with vegetables and rice (preferably brown). Try and steer clear of foods that are high in fats.
Wait before going back
If you still feel hungry after eating wait 20 minutes before going back for more. That’s the time it takes for your stomach to really appreciate when it’s full and you’ve actually had enough. Keeping yourself in shape also means paying attention to your body’s needs.
Keep up your exercise
A gentle dip in the pool or ocean is always rewarding during your time abroad, but if you really want to stay in shape it pays to dedicate some time each day for something a bit more intense. Even a fitness instructor and person trainer need to exercise. Get up early. Head down to the beach and have a long and rewarding run as the sun starts to come up. You’ll feel great, and are keeping yourself in shape and have set yourself up perfectly for the day ahead.
1st Photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/sanchom/
2nd Photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/jasonpratt/
I need to do a better job of this during the winter when I’m off. During the summer, I have no problem drinking a gallon or more of water while I’m on the side of the road. Sitting at home in the winter, I’ll sometimes go 4 hours or more before I remember to refill my glass.
Same here dude! Last year I was working out 4 to 5 times a week but then Thanksgiving and Christmas came along and I took a break. I also struggle with hydrating while at work. At home I do great so I’m the opposite of you.
I do great with some of these things and not so great with others. Staying hydrated offers many benefits related to exercise and health in general. I generally drink 96-128 ounces of water a day with my trusty Nalgene bottle.
Wow! That seems like a lot of water, but probably in line with what your body needs. I need to increase mine while at work, once I get home though I always have a glass of water with me. Getting a fancy water bottle for work might do the trick!
Thanks for the tips John. I always have to remind myself to drink more water. I recently bought a water bottle to take with me. So far so good. Now I just have to make sure I don’t loose it!
I think the only time I ever really take a break from hard core exercising is when I go on vacation. However, my last vacation was hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. That involved hiking mostly uphill, rugged terrain, for 8-10 hours a day with a daypack, so that was hardly a break. LOL. Even during the holidays I still teach my classes. Note to self: must relax during Easter holiday weekend.